UW-Superior to celebrate the big impact of small businesses on March 20
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the University of Wisconsin-Superior will hold an open house in recognition of Small Business Development Day on Wednesday, March 20, from 2 to 4 p.m. in Erlanson Hall, Room 106. This event to celebrate the success of SBDC clients is open to the public.
“Over the past 12 months, we have marked incredible growth for our eight-county region,” said Andy Donahue, UW-Superior SBDC Director. “We are so proud to be working with so many passionate and driven entrepreneurs who are committed to strengthening our economy and workforce day in and day out. Together, we were able to serve over 100 clients through one-on-one consulting and training events, along with helping these individuals with over $4 million of direct financial impact to their business.”
Wisconsin has a big reason to celebrate the third-annual national SBDC Day. The state’s SBDCs achieved a capital investment total last year exceeding $100 million for the first time. SBDCs have provided entrepreneurs the education and resources they need to start, manage and grow since 1980.
“Our clients aren’t just starting or running small businesses. They are fulfilling their dreams, reinventing their careers and making positive contributions to their communities,” said State Director Bon Wikenheiser. “The SBDC empowers business owners with the information they need to achieve their goals.”
In 2018, Wisconsin SBDC consultants across 13 locations provided confidential, no-cost consulting to 3,780 clients, leading to 256 new businesses, 9,617 jobs supported and $101 million in capital investment, which is an increase from $80 million in 2017.
“SBDC clients give their SBDCs 4.5 out of 5 stars and 92 percent of SBDC clients recommend their SBDCs to other small businesses. With nearly 40 years of expertise, proven ROI and stellar client ratings it’s clear that America’s SBDCs are the nation’s most trusted small business resource.” said Charles “Tee” Rowe, President and CEO of America’s SBDC. The SBDC is the nation’s most comprehensive business assistance network. In 2016, centers provided 1.24 million hours of consulting to 188,602 businesses, resulting in 17,174 new businesses, 96,095 jobs, $6.4 billion in sales growth and $5.16 billion in capital investments.
Small businesses, partners and advocates are invited to help spread the word using the hashtag #SBDCDay up to and on March 20, to share what SBDCs do and how small businesses make a difference in their communities. The effort will also be marked by public relations initiatives, proclamations and events. The message that small businesses play a strong role in our economy is one worth repeating. For more information, visit AmericasSBDC.org/SBDCDay. To find Wisconsin SBDC locations, go towisconsinsbdc.org/locations.
