SBDC has programs for small businesses

Juan A. Navejar Jr.

Looking to expand your small business or start a new one, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) along with Workforce Solutions of the Coastal Bend and Texas Federal Credit Union have the resources to assist in your new adventure or expansion.

The three entities partnered to share their information at the Alice Chamber of Commerce.

“We want people to know we are here to assist them in either starting or growing their businesses,” Suzana Martinez with the SBDC said. “We are working with the Chamber to help those who want to grow.”

SBDC is the first step in getting your business up and running.

“Their first step should be to meet with us and start on their business plan,” Celia Garza with SBDC said.

The SBDC has a representative in Alice at Coastal Bend College every Tuesday.

“Marketing analysis is very important and knowing the demographics of whom you will be catering to is key,” Garza said. “We can assist you with GIS reports and your financial projections.”

Along with the SBDC, Workforce offers assistance with information on tax credits and skill development plans.

“Our mission is to foster small business success,” Luis Bernal with Workforce Solutions said. “We can work with you with resources to starting a business.”

The Skills for Small Business program allows for small businesses to request training for its employees to support improvement of overall operations. Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) implemented this initiative in coordination with the Office of the Governor’s Small Business Forums in an effort to address the training needs of small businesses in Texas.

Eligible businesses must be a private owned business; employ at least one and not more than 99 individuals; be financially stable; be able to pay Unemployment Insurance contributions to TWC and be in compliance with reporting and payment requirements.

The program covers tuition and fees for course offerings by eligible community and technical colleges.

Locally, classes are offered at Coastal Bend College, Del Mar College and the Craft Center.

Financial assistance for growth is available through the Texas Community Credit Union.

“We work hand in hand with the SBDC in getting funding for startup businesses and those wanting to expand,” Marco Villegas with TFCU said. “A good business plan along with a good financial outlook is what we are looking for.”