After a record breaking AngelCon, with more than $145,000 awarded by local investors, the CIE Small Business Development Center launched the Moving Main Street Forward campaign, a focused effort towards bringing small businesses the resources they need to thrive in San Luis Obispo County.
“Our center is fortunate and unique compared to other centers in California, in that we have a large variety of companies that we support and counsel – from technology companies to young startups, to family run businesses,” said Judy Mahan, CIE SBDC Economic Development Director. “We are known in the county for our support of entrepreneurs, early-stage start-ups and investor introductions. The Moving Main Street Forward campaign is focused on showcasing the services that we offer for retailers, restaurants, gyms—main street businesses—the businesses that are the heart and soul of the local business community.”
The SBDC has a roster of 30 consultants with a wide range of backgrounds from seasoned CFOs to veteran marketing gurus to manufacturing experts. These consultants are available at no cost to SBDC clients. They can help main street businesses navigate challenges against the cornerstone of their business from financial forecasting to sales projections.
The Moving Main Street Forward campaign highlights programs and services that the SBDC established to help —specifically with small businesses. Services provided include business focused seminars with topics like how to use QuickBooks, establishing and growing company culture or how to certify as a women owned business.
“The SBDC became an immediate member of Luna Red’s team, offering invaluable assistance in positioning — from restaurant layout to marketing strategy — and at no cost,” said Shanny Covey, Restaurateur and Co-Founder of Blue Mango.
To learn more about the SBDC and services available visit SBDC.CALPOLY.EDU.