SBDC Overview
Our Mission
To impact the small business community with world-class quality services that make a measurable contribution to regional economic growth and prosperity.
The SBDC
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is part of a national network that has more than 1,100 business development centers nationwide and is a member of the Florida SBDC Network and ASBDC. SBDCs represent the largest service delivery network of the U.S. Small Business Administration.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) administers the Small Business Development Center Program to provide management assistance to current and prospective small business owners. SBDCs offer one-stop assistance to individuals and small business by providing a wide variety of information and guidance in central and easily accessible branch locations.
The SBDC is a cooperative effort of the private sector, the educational community and federal, state and local governments. It enhances economic development by providing small businesses with management and technical assistance.
What the SBDC does
The SBDC is designed to deliver up-to-date counseling, training and technical assistance in all aspects of small business management. SBDC services include, but are not limited to, assisting small businesses with financial, marketing, production, organization, engineering and technical problems and feasibility studies. Special SBDC programs and economic development activities include international trade assistance, technical assistance, procurement assistance, venture capital formation and rural development. The SBDCs also make special efforts to reach minority members of socially and economically disadvantaged groups, veterans, women and the disabled. Assistance is provided to both current or potential small business owners. They also provide assistance to small business applying for Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) grants from federal agencies.
Eligibility
Assistance from an SBDC is available to anyone interested in beginning a small business for the first time or improving or expanding an existing small business.
Additional Information
In addition to the SBDC Program, the SBA has a variety of other programs and services available. They include training and educational programs, advisory services, publications, financial programs and contract assistance. The agency also offers specialized programs for women business owners, minorities, veterans, international trade and rural development.
The SBA has offices located throughout the country. For the one nearest you, consult the telephone directory under "U.S. Government", or call the Small Business Answer Desk at 1-800-8-ASK-SBA or (202) 205-7064 (fax). For the hearing impaired, the TDD number is (202) 205-7333.
© 2009 Small Business Development Center at Palm Beach State College
t 561.862.4725 f 561.862.4727 | sbdc@palmbeachstate.edu
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