Q: As a local lender, how has the partnership with the SBAC benefited your customers?
A: My customers have benefited from both the education and lending opportunities that the SBAC network provides.  SBAC provides fantastic education support for both lenders and small business owners. SBAC supports the community with practical and useful business information. The majority of the information is provided free of charge, just for the asking. SBAC also provides ongoing educational opportunities for lenders. They are always eager to conduct a one on one presentation to lending institutions about the different services they have available. The partnership for both business owners and lenders is invaluable.

Q: What do you recommend to small business owners trying to navigate through the current economic climate?
A: During the current economic times, I would recommend that Small Business owners stop and re-evaluate their business plan. Look to see if the plan you have is the plan that will work to take you to a state of sustainability. If you are not sure if your current business plan does, then take the time to sit down with a counselor of SCORE or SBDC, both units are housed at 111 E Liberty Street. Business owners will be surprised of the knowledge that is housed in this small building. Now, if your business does not have a business plan, it is never too late to develop one. The partners at the Small Business Resource Center are more than willing to assist business owners with their plans. Remember, an active business plan is your road map to success.