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As we celebrate National Small Business Development Centers Day, it’s the perfect occasion to shine a spotlight on the invaluable role that Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) play in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit that defines communities across the nation. From providing expert guidance and resources to fostering innovation and resilience, SBDCs are behind countless small business success stories.
SBDC programs deliver free and low-cost professional, high-quality, individualized business advising and technical assistance to existing small businesses and pre-venture entrepreneurs. They also provide problem-solving assistance to help small businesses access capital, develop and exchange new technologies, and improve business planning, financial management, personnel administration, marketing, export assistance, sales and other areas required for small business creation and expansion. Small Business Development Centers can be found across the nation, including the vast network that serves small businesses in the San Antonio area.
The Texas South-West SBDC Network, which includes the University of Texas at San Antonio SBDC, Angelo State University SBDC, Texas State University SBDC and other locations, stretches across 79 counties. Comprised of 10 field and three specialty programs, each center matches client needs with staff expertise to foster small business success.
A prime example of the immense value provided by SBDCs is Element Kombucha in San Antonio. Element Kombucha is a beverage manufacturing company focused on the production of kombucha and other soft drinks and is available in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and the Pacific Northwest. The company worked with the University of Texas at San Antonio Small Business Development Center to receive expert advice about managing the business. Owner Kevin Rayhons credits the SBDC services with helping them stay afloat and retain employees during the pandemic.
In San Angelo, Reyes Diesel owners, Guadalupe and Patricia Reyes, connected with the Angelo State University Small Business Development Center to receive training and guidance throughout their entrepreneurial journey. By utilizing SBDC services and the SBA 7(a) loan program, the business was able to expand from a 3,000-square-foot shop to a new 12,000-square-foot facility near San Angelo’s city center to serve the large diesel service contracts they have acquired over the years.
Angelo State University Small Business Development Center, led by Director Dezaray Kathlaine Johnson, was named this year’s Small Business Development Center Excellence and Innovation Center Award winner. The award recognizes Small Business Administration-funded training and assistance partners for their impact on local economic growth, job creation and entrepreneurial support. The Angelo State center is staffed by experienced advisors with expertise in business ownership, management and education. In 2024, the center counseled over 500 clients, resulting in more than 70 business starts and expansions and over 390 jobs created.
Small businesses are the backbone of the economy. Supporting and nurturing these entrepreneurial dreams is vital not only for economic growth but also for the strength and resilience of our communities. To connect with a local SBDC, visit the Small Business Administration website.
