SEDALIA—State Fair Community College will launch a new Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) Aug. 1 to provide entrepreneurs and small businesses in the region with resources to be successful.
SFCC, only the second Missouri community college to establish an SBTDC, is dedicated to fostering economic development through entrepreneurism.
“We know there are people in the communities we serve who have great ideas and a desire to start or grow an existing business,” said Dr. Joanna Anderson, SFCC president. “We’re excited about the opportunity to work with these people in our center and to provide assistance in building strong business plans and financial management practices. We want to create the best economic environment we can to strengthen everyone’s future.”
The SBTDC operates through SFCC’s The LearningForce and is part of Missouri’s network of centers, made possible by a funding partnership through the federal Small Business Administration (SBA), the University of Missouri Extension and SFCC.
Jessica L. Craig, executive director of The LearningForce, said there are major benefits to having the center on SFCC’s campus.
“This is the ideal time to host the SBTDC because data shows Missouri is leading the nation in new business creation,” said Craig. “It will create resources for SFCC students with entrepreneurial interests; create synergies with The LearningForce in business outreach, training, administration, and class management; and provide access to SBA curriculum for continuing education classes.
“It also will bring in additional revenue, serve as the regional resource for small businesses and entrepreneurs and provide training classes marketed on and published with the state’s SBTDC training calendar.”
Amy Jackson, former assistant director of The LearningForce, will serve as director of the SBTDC. Jackson has more than 18 years experience in business development and management, marketing, training, problem-solving, and small business ownership.
“The SBTDC will be an extension of the partnerships and services created through The LearningForce,” said Jackson. “Small businesses are the core of our economy and culture. The SBTDC will strive to offer a dynamic, positive environment for businesses in the community, provide current and innovative resources and support entrepreneurs and small businesses so they can be successful.”
The SBTDC is located on SFCC’s Sedalia campus inside The LearningForce in Fielding Technical Center, Room 255. For more information, call Jackson at (660) 596-7391 or email ajackson14@sfccmo.edu.
SFCC’s The LearningForce oversees noncredit continuing education courses for business and industry, professional development and personal enrichment for adults and children. To view the current course schedule and to enroll online, go to www.sfccmo.edu/thelearningforce or call (660) 530-5822 or email thelearningforce@sfccmo.edu.
