Small Business Development Center
Monthly Update
June 2012
The SOU Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides in-depth, confidential, one-on-one guidance to businesses and prospective entrepreneurs at no fee. We can help you gather information, evaluate, plan, and create systems for your business that lead to greater profit, job creation, and job retention.
Call 541-552-8300 for more information

June SBDC Workshops

Smart Start
June 7, 6:00-9:00 PM  
OR  
June 22, 9:00-12:00 PM 

  

Get the important information you need to know before you start your business in southern Oregon. This 3-hour workshop provides the "nuts and bolts" and more to help you succeed.     


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Small Business Networking Opportunities

Ashland Chamber Greeters Meetings
Every Friday,
8:15-9:30 am
Click here
for more information

Medford Chamber Greeters Meetings
Every Thursday,
8:00-9:00 am
Click here
for more information

Phoenix Chamber
Greeters Meetings
First Tuesday,
8:30-9:30 am
Click here
for more information

Talent Chamber
Greeters Meetings
Third Wednesday,
8:30-9:30 am
Click here
for more information

Heart of Medford Association
First Wednesday,
8:00-9:00 am
Click here
for more information

Jefferson Grapevine
Bi-monthly,
5:00-7:30 pm
Click here
for more information 

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Welcome from the Director!  
 
Thank you for viewing our monthly updates. We are well aware of the continuous information that we all receive and the time it takes to filter out that of which is of interest to you. As they say in the air transportation business, "with all the available options, thanks for flying with us." We work hard to bring you relevant and timely information in and around the Rogue Valley.

This month, we especially draw your attention to several programs offered by our Center. If you are looking for funding, see if the Capital Access Team (CAT) can help. If you are a growing, traded-sector business, be sure to see if you qualify under the Grow Oregon program.

We are here to serve your needs, and, as always, appreciate your feedback and comments.

Have a great summer!
Jack
 
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Capital Access Team

The Capital Access Team (CAT) is a statewide initiative FUNDED BY THE SMALL BUSINESS JOBS ACT to provide SBDC clients with specialty advising and access to loans.

This service is now available at Southern Oregon University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for your business funding needs.  Call our office to schedule an appointment with an advisor to assist with the following questions and more:  
  • Have you applied for a business loan and/or credit line and been refused?
  • Do you find yourself running out of cash in your business?
  • Do you find yourself running out of cash seasonally in your business?
  • Should you refinance your business debt?
  • Are you confident your business plan/financials support your plan for use of loan funds?
  • Which bank might be the best fit for your business needs?

Advisors are here to assist with all facets of the loan package. When you call for your appointment please clarify the area in which you would like assistance. We encourage you to visit www.BizCenterCAT.org for assessments, tools & additional resources.  

 

Questions? Contact Ruthie L. Painter

Business Development Specialist

CAT Center Lead for SOU SBDC

painterR@sou.edu 

Cell 541-840-4201


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Now Offering Computer & Networking Assistance!
Having computer or networking problems? Clif, a local IT specialist, is volunteering time to the SOU SBDC for the purpose of helping existing, growing, and start-up businesses. 

Cliff can help your business with technical issues related to computer needs, network decisions, outsourcing, decisions on internet providers, decision making for purchasing new equipment, etc.

 

Clif is founder and CEO of a local computer solutions provider in their 10th year of business in the Rogue Valley. Clif graduated from MIT with a degree in computer science. He has been in the computer industry for over 30 years and has worked in computer design, software development, customer service, marketing, sales, and corporate management. Clif is very active in the community doing volunteer work using his skills in technology.  

 

Call our office at 541-552-8300 for available appointments!   

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My Dashboard: SBDC Resource Library

Looking for upcoming workshops? Interested in additional resources? Need to update your contact information? Misplaced handouts your advisor gave you? 
 
All this information can now be found online at http://www.bizcenter.org

Click here for a handout to learn how to access 'My Dashboard.' 

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Grow Oregon

Thinking about growth? Wondering what it will take to stay profitable now and in the years ahead?

Whether you're pursuing new markets or improving operational efficiencies, sustaining growth is fundamental to success.

GROW Oregon, a program of the Oregon Small Business Development Center Network (OSBDCN), provides the following specialized services:
  • Strategic needs assessment
  • Advanced market research and analysis
  • Digital media assistance
  • Search engine optimization guidance
  • CEO networking/mentoring
Additional services include:
  • Business planning
  • Financial analysis
  • Debt and equity financing assistance
  • Export assistance
  • CEO networking/mentoring
GROW Oregon is not for every business.  Click here to see you if you qualify.

Fore more information, you may also email groworegon@bizcenter.org.

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International Trade

Are you looking to global markets to export or import goods and services? The Oregon Small Business Development Center Network has resources to help you connect to and conduct business around the world.

 

We have been providing international trade education programs and one-on-one business counseling on international trade for over 20 years.

 

Through www.bizcenter.org and our Network of 19 local Centers you can gain access to international trade information and assistance you need to succeed in the global marketplace. 

 

We have experienced, professional staff that can provide comprehensive services and resources to assist businesses in all aspects of international trade.

 

Click here for available services and additional resources.

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Oregon Business Opportunities 2012
June 12, 2012
9:00 AM to 4:30 PM 



Sessions/Workshops
  • The 2012 Conference will give Oregon businesses the tools and connections needed to establish and maintain effective relationships with agencies, leading to government contracts.
  • Learn about GCAP, Oregon's Procurement Technical Assistance Center, linking businesses with opportunities and government contracting expertise
  • Introducing the new Federal government-wide SAM (System for Award Management), soon to replace CCR, ORCA, and much more.
  • Meet and hear from State of Oregon personnel about accessing opportunities and valuable resources.
  • Connect with Federal Contracting Personnel on how to build relationships with their agencies and effectively compete for contracts. 

Location: Salem Conference Center

200 Commercial Street SE

Salem, OR 97301

 

Cost: $55.00

Registration includes continental breakfast and lunch 


Questions?  Contact 541-736-1088 or 800-497-7551
 
Click here for the registration form

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SOREDI Annual Dinner
June 20, 2012
5:30 PM to 8:30 PM


Celebrate SOREDI's 25 years of service to Jackson and Josephine Counties as they honor those who established SOREDI and recognize four regional businesses for their collaboration, tenacity, prosperity, and ingenuity.   

In addition, hear from keynote speakers Sid DeBoer, CEO of Lithia Motors, and Paul Nickelson, Executive Director of Oregon Shakespeare Festival, as well as a complement of local businesses offering their own testimonials and commentary.

Location: Red Lion
200 N Riverside Ave.
Medford, OR 97501  
 
Cost: SOREDI Members, $50/Non-Members, $75
Registration includes the cost of dinner

Click here to register online.   

     
Click here for more information on the SOU SBDC

SBA LogoThe Small Business Development Center is partially funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The support given by the Small Business Administration through such funding does not constitute or express an implied endorsement of any of the cosponsors; or participants' opinions, products, or services. Special arrangement for disabled individuals will be made if requested in advance.