Understanding SBA Stimulus Loans is a popular program developed by the SBDC at the University of South Florida in Tampa. The Small Business Administration (SBA) has received $730 million in stimulus funds that offer up to 90% loan guarantees, eliminate some fees, and provide new programs for small businesses seeking credit in the current economy. Attendees discover how these new incentives can help their business, which banks are making loans, and program insights from a 30-year banking veteran.

Attendance at the How To Do Business With the Government workshop, presented by the FSBDC’s Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) Program, has skyrocketed with the stimulus dollars targeted for government projects. In the past, construction firms rarely attended these workshops; however, most of the current attendees have been construction-related businesses. This reflects the change in commercial construction opportunities. 

The Upside of the Downturn is a new training program by the SBDC at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville. It is being presented to business owners through online virtual training; as a keynote presentation for community and business organizations; as an interactive roundtable; and as a traditional workshop. It covers everything from the latest news on the economy to the downside and upside of the recession. Attendees are provided an SBDC survival toolkit. (Check out the tips brochure online at www.sbdc.unf.edu.)

No Job? Create Your Own! was developed by the SBDC at Seminole Community College in Sanford to look at self-employment as a career avenue for the unemployed. Attendees explore technical abilities, trade skills and hobbies that may provide a basis for part-time or freelance work.

“Now more than ever is the time for small business owners to meet with a SBDC Certified Business Analyst and take advantage of the special programs being offered by their SBDC,” says Jerry Cartwright, FSBDCN State Director.  “Professional staff at the 34 SBDC offices from Pensacola to Key West are ready to assist entrepreneurs and small businesses by analyzing what they are doing, what they should be doing and how their future can be better.”