Small Biz Buzz

Webcast on Networking Options

2011-11-16T10:15:00.001-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 16, 2011

IBM Market Development sponsors Webcasts
IBM Market development sponsors a series of webcasts to benefit small business owners
and professionals in transition Orlando, FL- The first of a series of webcasts that will feature informative topics that will help small business owners and in most cases professionals who are in between jobs will take place on Thursday, November 17th at 12 noon EST during Global Entrepreneurship Week - GEW
(Nov 14-20). Harland Henry of SunBiz Showcase Alliance will be hosting these webcasts that
are sponsored by IBM Market Development. Register at http://networkingops.eventbrite.com

YOU WILL LEARN
The first webcast is "Networking Options For Business Owners and Professionals in Transition",
the importance of building relationships through networking.
Our panelists will drill down:
• First impressions through non-verbal communication
• Dressing for success
• Making an impact.
The results can either land a job or close a big sale.
Our veteran networkers panelists for the topic in this first series are:
Di-Anne Di Re - Founder/President, Media Resources, Florida
Nancy Frede - President, Frede Enterprises, Connecticut
Harland Henry - Moderator - President/CCO, SunBiz Showcase Alliance LLC
Liz Otts - Founder/President, Florida Expo Services, Florida

Please register early to receive the link that will get you into the webcast on Thursday,
November 17th at 12noon EST at http://networkingops.eventbrite.com. If you have questions,
please contact Harland Henry at harland@sunbizshowcasealliance.com or 321.219.9732.
Once a year, entrepreneurial minds around the world join the GEW movement to foster
originality, imagination and ingenuity through local, national and global activities. Founded by
the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the world’s largest foundation dedicated to
entrepreneurship. GEW helps current and aspiring entrepreneurs gain the knowledge, skills and
networks necessary to grow sustainable enterprises.

Media contact:
Di-Anne Di Re
407-579-9903
dianne@mediaresourcesenterprise.com

Get used to this term "Regional Innovation Clusters"

2011-10-21T17:27:00.000-04:00

Regional Cluster Initiative

Shouldn't this be news headline somewhere? Those of you who know me well have had to listen to my chest-beating chants about "localization" and the regionalization of small businesses. Well, to my surprise and delight, it is officially here. I have NOT seen it in any major news (or any media for that matter) but, the idea has been rolled out by others who have much bigger bully pulpits than I.

I encourage you to learn these three letters RIC (Regional Innovation Clusters) coming to a city near you. In fact, I suggest you request a RIC because it may take too ling to arrive.

The Obama Administration announced on September 22, 2011 the winners of the $37 million Jobs and Innovation Accelerator Challenge, a multi-agency competition.
http://www.sba.gov/content/regional-cluster-initiative-0.

"The only way to fully restore America's economic strength is to make the long-term investments that will lead to new jobs, new industries, and a renewed ability to compete with the rest of the world."
- President Barack Obama

Where Did The Money Go After 9-11?

2011-09-13T19:48:00.001-04:00

Where did the money go after 9-11?

As I began preparing for my September newsletter, I looked around for articles that mentioned 9-11 in relation to its economic effects on small business. I was disappointed that not many directly addressed the relationship between 9-11 and the unfortunate stifling of small businesses across the country. Is it possible that the lack of circulating money was responsible for breaking the back of the economy? I think so. No one disputes the fact that 9-11 was a tragic disaster. It was a sad day for everyone, especially those of us who knew of someone directly or indirectly affected by a loss of life or injury. However, the other tragic loss that seemed to have gone unmentioned is the loss of funding, support, and contracts for small businesses immediately following the incident.

Prior to 9-11, small businesses had lots of opportunities to be successful. Funding was available, sales people thrived and marketing opportunities were opening everywhere. Most of all, the larger corporations and government agencies had money to spend with small businesses through their procurement systems. Many of the small businesses that I know thrived on their annual contracts to supply from nuts and bolts to paper goods and every possible type of service. Then came 9-11!

Before the end of October 2001, budgets were dramatically frozen or cut, many long term contracts were canceled and hundreds of small businesses had to close, retool or rapidly downsize. Suddenly, landscapers and small appliance maintenance workers had to renegotiate contracts. Everything that had a “small business” label changed. The funding for the very programs that were in place to assist and support these businesses was suddenly cut. Corporations no longer funded, supported or sponsored business showcases, expos, roundtables and forums that brought entrepreneurs and business people together. Where did the money go?

Now 10 years later, the shock to small businesses has not worn off. The Madoff and hedge fund scandals added to the demise of small businesses, further closing off the pipeline to almost any funding and support through grants and loans. So what is the solution?

Change is possible. The economic debacle that we are in can change if corporations have an interest to make it work. The signs are there, they have been appearing lately. Corporations are beginning to sponsor (though in a very small way) small business events. Banks are allowing their Business Bankers out on the road again. An upturn in the economy needs a show of confidence on the part of the small business owner and innovators. However, their confidence is based on the tangible support from government, banking institutions and support systems. The Kauffman Foundation is a great example of what is possible with support. Small business owners don’t necessarily need millions of dollars in loans to hire staff, it’s your support and assurance that they have a credible partner.

I truly believe those making the regulations are well intended. However, there are a number of simple measures institutions and small government agencies can take to build confidence and assurance for small business. Begin by providing small businesses with procurement opportunities, open contracts for goods and services so that small businesses can generate cash flow, increase inventory, hire and regenerate a viable economy. Many will tell you that they need small loans or investments as low as $1,500 for inventory and equipment. Provide the opportunity and support; relax regulations, streamline the licensing process and high credit criteria, make small funds available to businesses and we can get people back to work. Create opportunities by reopening small business forums, sponsor and create panel discussions for innovators. In addition, streamline the start up and licensing process and place Confidence Builders into the communities to coach and consult with the businesses. Let’s bring the money back into small business. It can start now!

Attend and support the following Business Expos:

Saturday September 17^th – 2^nd Annual Pasco/Hernando Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Business Expo at the Rasmussen College, Land O Lakes, Florida. Featuring Julio Fuentes, CEO Florida Hispanic Chamber – Contact Rocio Paulsen at rocio@gf-is.com.
Wednesday, September 21^st – 2^nd annual Florida Business Expo at the Rosen Centre, Orlando, Florida. Featuring Luis Cuneo of IBM – Click on link for details.
October 3-5, 2011 – Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council’s Business Expo – MGM Grand, Foxwoods, Mashantucket, CT. - Click on link for details.

Elizabeth Warren To The Rescue

2011-03-14T22:01:00.002-04:00

Treasury Department Announces Launch of ‘Beta’ Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Website

WASHINGTON –The U.S. Department of the Treasury today announced the launch of a ‘beta’ Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) website, ConsumerFinance.gov, a critical link to the American public for soliciting ideas on the bureau’s creation and priorities and for answering questions on its work.

“We have the opportunity to create a brand new consumer agency from the ground up. This agency will put a cop on the beat to enforce the laws on credit cards, mortgages, student loans, prepaid cards, and other kinds of consumer financial products and services,” said Elizabeth Warren, Assistant to the President and Special Advisor to the Secretary of the Treasury on the CFPB, in a new video available on the website. “We want to make sure that the American people are with us all the way while we build it.”

The central aim of the CFPB implementation team’s initial new media efforts will be engagement. The team will reach out to the American public for ideas, input, and feedback on the work already underway and on new initiatives commencing in the weeks and months ahead. In addition, the site will be a valuable tool in recruiting talent to join the staff of the CFPB.

The CFPB ‘beta’ website currently has the following features available online:

Open for Suggestions. The CFPB implementation team wants to hear from consumers, businesses, and anyone who is interested in making consumer financial services markets work better for everyone. One component of the CFPB ‘beta’ website is an application for communicating directly with the American people: “Open for Suggestions.” This feature encourages communication directly with the CFPB implementation team through YouTube video questions, but suggestions can also be accepted through e-mail and other forms of online communication. This feature is just one expression of a larger idea: the CFPB implementation team is listening. The CFPB’s priorities will be responsive to the public the consumer bureau serves. Comments from the public will help the CFPB implementation team understand what consumers and financial services providers need and will inform the work of the bureau.

Interactive Display of Prof. Elizabeth Warren’s Daily Calendar. One of the items most frequently-requested by the public is Prof. Elizabeth Warren’s calendar. The CFPB implementation team has put her calendar online in an interactive, clickable format. Users can explore who Warren is meeting with and hearing from through the online tool, or they can download the iCal feed, subscribe via RSS, or view the calendar as a FOIA-compliant PDF file.

About the Bureau. This section includes an animated video describing the origins of the financial crisis and what the consumer bureau will do to protect American families and improve financial services markets for consumers and providers alike—and ultimately strengthen the entire economy. The video is narrated by director, actor, and producer Ron Howard.

Social Media. Individuals can follow CFPB on several social media sites:
• Facebook: http://facebook.com/cfpb
• Twitter: http://twitter.com/cfpb
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/cfpb
• Flickr: http://flickr.com/cfpbphotos

Additional resources available now include selected financial education materials provided by other government agencies and a tool for determining the agency with current authority for overseeing different providers of financial products and services so that consumers can find help with their financial problems with the responsible agency while the CFPB is getting underway.

POSTED ON February 3, 2011

Thinking Of A Paperless Office?

2011-01-24T17:55:00.000-05:00

SunBiz Showcase Alliance,

Company Website

Phone #321.219.9732

Cloud based computing is getting the attention it is due. If you are a small business owner and have an interest in learning more, invite us to host a presentation to your group.

6 Tips for a Paperless Office

By Joseph Anthony

Many people who use computers — whether it's for their home or business — are moving toward a "paperless" office. Simply, they are tired and overwhelmed by scraps of paper, clunky old file folders, envelopes — and they want to reduce the clutter. Don't believe me? Take a look at how many messages are stored in your e-mail's in-basket. Now imagine how much paper would have been generated if they hadn't come to you from cyberspace.
Many folks have made at least a partial move to a paperless office. They're doing so this way: by using scanners instead of copying machines, sending electronic faxes instead of paper faxes, storing information electronically instead of in filing cabinets, giving friends, clients or vendors information on CDs or through Internet attachments instead of in bound folders. In short, they're getting greater return on their hardware, software and technology investments.
Want to join the anti-paper campaign? Save a few trees along the way? Here are six things to keep in mind as you move toward a paperless home or business office.

1. Without paper, make sure you're backing up files.

In the traditional backup system, you would make a photocopy of a document and put it in a properly-labeled folder that can later be retrieved from a filing cabinet. Many people and businesses develop electronic filing systems that mimic the old paper systems, using Microsoft Word or customized programs for storing documents by type of document, client, project or other prioritization. But those files can't just be created — they have to be backed up as well. Backup solutions can include backing up to second hard drives, to removable drives or to Internet and off-site locations to minimize the risk of loss of data from a computer failure. So, the message here is to have a system in place for regular and consistent backing up of your information.

2. Realize that a paperless office doesn't happen overnight.

Your home office or business won't go from all-paper one day to paperless the next. It's a progression. You might start out by scanning all incoming bills into your system, and then expand to include all general business correspondence. Initially, you might even find you're creating more work instead of less — especially if you run a business. Dr. Boris Klopukh, a urologist with Urologists Specialists, LLC, in Miami, has embraced the paperless transition wherever possible but finds that he often stores medical records electronically and still prints out a copy for himself. "I'm not even sure why I do it; it's just another way of backing up information that I'm still comfortable with," he says.

3. You'll need to rearrange your office — a good thing.

There usually aren't tremendous savings of office space when you first start focusing on using less paper. After all, you still have all those paper documents housed in your big, clunky file cabinets. At some point during your transition to a paperless office, however, the difference in your physical storage space will become apparent. "My eyes were opened when I had to move from one location to another and I realized I had many filing cabinets that I was holding on to for no reason," says Ed Branson, a real estate broker and owner of Branson's California Property in Carson, Calif. Branson estimates that he has fewer than half as many filing cabinets as he used before he started scanning documents into his computer.

4. "Paperless" often really means "less paper."

Yes, it's possible to scan all received documents into your computer, and to store all in-house documents in your system as well. You can virtually eliminate paper faxes by generating faxes on your computer and having in-bound faxes delivered to your computer system. You can even electronically sign or signature-stamp outgoing documents. But you're still likely to have some paper floating through your office. Not all of your clients or customers will want to be billed electronically. Some vendors will still want to communicate by snail mail. And tax and regulatory requirements could force you to either do some current business on paper or to keep hard copies of your past home or business records.

5. Everyone has to buy in.

Merely saying as head of household, owner or manager of a business that you want those around you to embrace your paperless office doesn't make it so. Your partner, spouse, family members or staff has to buy into the transition as a permanently-new way of doing business. Change can be difficult. People who have been making photocopies, sending paper faxes, putting documents into legal sized folders — or saving mounds of mail and catalogues that they just can't part with — are going to have to change their perceptions. They will have to learn new routines that they already feel skilled at. "I think you really have to take them through the process a little at a time," says Klopukh. There's a learning curve which can be a significant learning curve — people have to understand how to use new software, some of which they haven't seen before, and learn to deal with a new environment, he says.

6. Realize that less paper is just the beginning of the payoff.

The most visible impact of a move to a paperless office is the reduction in the cost of printing, mailing, shipping and storing paper. Over time, lots of other benefits should become apparent: Less time spent looking for paper lost in the shuffle. Fewer hours looking for bills, documents and, if you're in business, copies of client documents. The ability to access all sorts of information from computer files — in a matter of seconds without having to search your office. If you've got a home office that serves as a satellite office of a business, you can have access to all of your business files, using a product like Terminal Services or other software, even if you're not at your business location. In short, change can be hard — but it can be profitable.


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Social Networking Tips - Happy Holidays

2010-12-19T08:34:00.000-05:00

SunBiz Showcase Alliance PLLC

www.sunbizshowcasealliance.com

3212199732

SunBiz Showcase Alliance is a business consulting company that supports small businesses from 1-9 employees, entrepreneurs and innovators. We strive to build a network of viable small businesses in order to build community and economic development.

Make Social Networking Work: 7 tips

By Christopher Elliott

Social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace and Twitter connect millions of like-minded people every day through the Web. But did you know they also can help your small business connect with customers?
"Social networking can help promote a small business in two ways," says Susan Barnes, a professor and associate director for at Rochester Institute of Technology's Lab for Social Computing. "Loyal customers can create small networks and provide testimonials for the business and employees can share information with each other through social networks."

More than half of all small-business owners believe social networking sites have a place in the business world, according to a 2008 survey by SurePayroll. And one in five companies has generated business from a social media site.
What's the appeal of social networking? There are practically no barriers to entry, for starters.

"Facebook does not charge a fee, nor does MySpace or LinkedIn," says Shaun Clancy, owner of Foley's NY Pub & Restaurant, a small business located across from the Empire State Building in New York that has tapped social networks to increase its business. For example, it uses its Facebook account to promote special events, such as a Frank Sinatra-themed evening. "If someone is going to offer marketing opportunities at no cost, why not accept the offer?"
(In fact, none of the social networking sites charge to join, although some, like LinkedIn, have premium levels that are not free.)
Another reason: it's where customers are. Nearly 7 in 10 of American adults visit online blogs, communities or social networks, and one-third of those surveyed say they visit these sites to read up on product reviews to help them make purchasing decisions, according to a 2008 MarketTools report. The promise of this emerging technology is simple. As web strategist Lorrie Thomas puts it, "Small businesses can dominate if they embrace social networking as part of their marketing strategy."

But how? Here are seven tips:
1. Choose your social network carefully. There are dozens of popular sites where a small business can set up shop. Pick yours with care. "LinkedIn is the gold standard for business," says Joe Procopio, president of Intrepid Media, a management and technical consulting company based in Chapel Hill, NC. His company uses it for hiring, sales insight, and monitoring changes in the business landscape. Another good bet for a small business is Facebook, which lets "friends" within your network know what you're working on and what you're interested in. "Facebook is a personal PR machine, and its hooks between networks allow you to reach people you'd never be able to reach on your own," adds Procopio.

2. Set realistic goals. Any small business that tries to participate in every social network will quickly become overwhelmed. Experts say a little planning is important. "It's all about quality, not quantity," says Mary Ellen Tribby, co-author of the book "Changing the Channel: 12 Easy Ways to Make Millions for Your Business." She says having a clear objective is a key to success in social networking. "Why are you using a social network?" she asks. "To create buzz? To build a list? To sell a product? To build relationships? Or for feedback?" Depending on how you answer, you can set your sights on building the right relationships with the right people on the right social networks.

3. Find your audience. Social networking is all about segmentation. So once you've decided where your customers are, chances are you'll have to dig deeper to contact them. Do they hang out in a chat room or do they belong to a particular group? Kel Kelly of the Boston Web marketing consultancy Kel & Partners, says the search may lead you to other social networks that are out of the mainstream. "As an example, if you are selling to moms, you should leverage sites like TheWiseMommy.com," she says. "If you are trying to reach a well-educated, older demographic, sites like Gather.com would be a great choice. And if you are trying to reach an affluent consumer, a site like Spire.com would serve you well."

4. Be a good netizen. Joining a social network may cost nothing, but there are rules that have to be followed and a price to be paid if you don't. A social network isn't another venue from which to broadcast your press releases or new product announcements nonstop. Social networking guru Shel Horowitz says the customers you'll meet online expect you to actually be a part of the network. "Be helpful," he suggests. "Share information and resources, especially those that demonstrate your expertise." He also recommends posting to a network regularly - at least a few times a week.

5. Open up. Part of what makes social networking an effective tool is that you can easily meet new people. Keeping an open mind is important. "When you join any social network, you need to be an open networker," says Jorge Olson a San Diego-based social networking expert and author of the book "The Unselfish Guide to Self Promotion." So what's an open networker? It's someone who accepts invitations to "connect" or become "friends" with anyone. "This sounds very simple, but it is not," he adds. "Many people are still afraid of networking, posting their photo or giving their e-mail address online. This defeats the purpose of networking." Another bonus: Being an open networker is a tip-off to other experienced networkers that you're in the know. Result? Better leads.

6. But don't over-share. Assume that any information you post on a public networking site will be read by everyone you know. Even if you think they're private (for example, if you "protect" your updates on Twitter, the microblogging site). "Even if you create a profile as an individual on a non-business oriented network like Facebook, keep in mind that colleges and potential customers may come across the information you post there," says John Enright, a vice president for LimeLabs, a Web application development company. Think twice before posting details such as your political affiliation, personal beliefs and jokes. "They may seem completely appropriate among friends," adds Enright. "But they could be interpreted as offensive or unprofessional."

7. Listen more than you talk. It's a natural tendency to log on to a social network and start spreading the word about your product and service right away. But you might consider doing more listening, at least in the beginning. "Small business owners should seek out blogs, key industry leaders and forums in their market to become aware of the social media environment for their industry," says Clate Mask, the chief executive of Infusionsoft, a Web application developer in Gilbert, Ariz. When is it OK to get chatty about your company? If you participate in the social network, it will become apparent when you can begin talking. Often, another member of the network will ask you a question about your product. That's a sign.

With a little planning and research, and by learning the rules of the game, you can boost your business with the help of a social network. Remember: Social media isn't like anything else. "It's about having a conversation with your market," says Alec Saunders, the chief executive of the Ottawa, Canada-based social networking company Iotum. "By engaging customers one-on-one, you lead to conversations, which lead to word-of-mouth. And word-of-mouth is what you want."

Christopher Elliott writes about business travel and mobile computing, and publishes a weekly travel newsletter. You can e-mail him ( chris@elliott.org ) or visit his Web site.


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SunBiz Showcase Alliance at GEW10

2010-11-17T10:17:00.003-05:00

For information, video b-roll and interviews, contact:

Lacey Graverson                       Matthew Hantz
Kauffman Foundation                    M Booth & Associates
(816) 932-1116                            (212) 481-7000
lgraverson@kauffman.org              matthewh@mbooth.com

SunBiz Showcase Alliance Helps Kick Off
Global Entrepreneurship Week

More than 100 Countries Celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week; Thousands of Organizations Hold Events to Inspire Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

New Kauffman Foundation Poll Finds Youth Interested in Entrepreneurship Despite Economy

Tampa, FL Nov. 17, 2010 – As part of Global Entrepreneurship Week – a worldwide celebration of ingenuity, creativity and innovation – SunBiz Showcase Alliance kicked off The Virtual Business Showcase on November 15th. This is an opportunity to highlight a range of Stage One businesses.

Harland Henry, CEO of SunBiz Showcase Alliance said,” I encourage you to support small businesses in your community and online.”

In the U.S. alone, more than 1,300 organizations in all 50 states – including top universities, non-profit organizations, successful entrepreneurs, government agencies and corporate sponsors – will be hosting hundreds of events, engaging students and celebrating firm creation during Global Entrepreneurship Week. The Week has grown exponentially since its inaugural event in 2008: more than 10 million people in 103 countries will participate this year. In 2009, more than 7.5 million people took part in an estimated 32,000 events across 88 countries.

To gauge young people’s interest in and awareness of entrepreneurship, the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation released the results of a new survey of American youth. Despite a difficult economic climate, many young Americans are still interested in entrepreneurial pursuits. Conducted by Harris Interactive®, the online poll reveals that 40 percent of youth ages eight to 24 would like to start a business at some future point, or already have done so.

Results from the August 2010 survey of 5,077 young people are consistent with a previous study conducted in 2007. The survey shows that youth who know an entrepreneur personally have the strongest interest in starting their own businesses. (To access the complete youth poll findings, go to www.kauffman.org/youngentrepreneurs.)

“The economic downturn, it seems, has done nothing to dissuade young people from their dreams of business ownership,” said Carl Schramm, president and CEO of the Kauffman Foundation.

Co-founded by the Kauffman Foundation, the world’s largest foundation dedicated to entrepreneurship, and Enterprise UK, a business-led, government-backed campaign in the United Kingdom, Global Entrepreneurship Week helps current and would-be entrepreneurs gain knowledge, skills and networks to inspire and enable them to grow sustainable enterprises.

The U.S. Senate is on board, too. Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, will be introducing a Senate Resolution to officially designate the week of November 15 - 21 as Global Entrepreneurship Week.

To view a complete list of participating countries and organizations, or to learn more about the Week, visit www.unleashingideas.org. For events only in the U.S., visit www.gewusa.org.

About Global Entrepreneurship Week
With the goal to inspire young people to embrace innovation, imagination and creativity, Global Entrepreneurship Week will encourage youth to think big and turn their ideas into reality. From November 15-21, 2010, millions of young people around the world will join a growing movement to generate new ideas and seek better ways of doing things. Tens of thousands of activities are being planned in dozens of countries. Global Entrepreneurship Week is founded by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and Enterprise UK. For more information, visit www.unleashingideas.org, and follow @unleashingideas on Twitter.

Kauffman Foundation
The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation is a private nonpartisan foundation that works to harness the power of entrepreneurship and innovation to grow economies and improve human welfare. Through its research and other initiatives, the Kauffman Foundation aims to open young people's eyes to the possibility of entrepreneurship, promote entrepreneurship education, raise awareness of entrepreneurship-friendly policies, and find alternative pathways for the commercialization of new knowledge and technologies. In addition, the Foundation focuses on initiatives in the Kansas City region to advance students’ math and science skills, and improve the educational achievement of urban students, including the Ewing Marion Kauffman School, a college preparatory charter school for middle and high school students set to open in 2011. Founded by late entrepreneur and philanthropist Ewing Marion Kauffman, the Foundation is based in Kansas City, Mo. and has approximately $2 billion in assets. For more information, visit www.kauffman.org, and follow the Foundation on Twitter at @kauffmanfdn and Facebook.

Survey Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of the Kauffman Foundation in August 2010 among 5,077 youth ages eight to 24. For eight- to 17-year-olds, figures for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, region, school location and parental education were weighted where necessary to bring them in line with their actual proportions in the population. For 18- to 24-year-olds, figures for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, region and household income were weighted where necessary to bring them in line with their actual proportions in the population.

# # #

Launching A Virtual Business Showcase in GEW

2010-10-26T16:32:00.000-04:00

SunBiz Showcase Alliance will participate in Global Entrepreneurship for the third year in a row. This year, we created a new and innovative twist called a Virtual Business Showcase. The VBS allows participating businesses to be listed on the SunBiz Showcase website in a format that allows anyone connected to GEW to visit the website and purchase goods and services. The VBS is a FREE service offered by SunBiz Showcase.

We hope that you will join our Showcase or patronize the participating businesses. To learn more about our event, please click here.

About Global Entrepreneurship Week With the goal to inspire young people to embrace innovation, imagination and creativity, Global Entrepreneurship Week will encourage youth to think big and turn their ideas into reality. From November 15-21, 2010, millions of young people around the world will join a growing movement to generate new ideas and seek better ways of doing things. Tens of thousands of activities are being planned in dozens of countries. Global Entrepreneurship Week is founded by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and the Make Your Mark campaign. For more information, visit www.unleashingideas.org, and follow @unleashingideas on Twitter.

Small Business Jobs and Credit Act signed

2010-09-28T15:11:00.001-04:00

In another attempt to boost the economy and support small businesses, President Barack Obama signed H.R. 5297- Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010, a $30 billion small business lending bill into law.
The law sets up a lending fund for small businesses and includes an additional $12 billion in tax breaks for small companies.

The provisions include a 100% exclusion from capital gains taxes for those who invest in small business; a provision allowing firms to immediately write off 50% of the cost of new equipment; and a doubling of the tax deduction for start-up expenses to $100,000.

Also included in the law is the Export Promotion act, which Senator LeMieux co-authored with Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). The Export Promotion provision will increase the activities and staffing of the Department of Commerce in carrying out its mission to promote U.S. exports. It will also increase the export grants funds available to industry associations and non-profit institutions. "It was critical that we cut taxes and make more loans available to entrepreneurs," Obama said in remarks at the White House. "So today after a long and tough fight, I am signing a small business jobs bill that does exactly that."

It is no accident that Elizabeth Warren was recently appointed as special adviser to oversee creation of a new Consumer Protection Bureau. Let us see what your community bank does in the next few months. Let’s test them and watch them closely.

Sources: You Tube, George LeMieux press release, AP.

How About Credit Card Relief As A Homecoming Gift?

2010-08-23T11:46:00.002-04:00

I have been wondering why the Iraq war has tapered down to just a quiet procession and exit from Iraq; and still cannot figure it out. But of course, I am no expert in the field of war strategies or mass communication. However, what I do know is that many of these men and women who served so bravely and for so long in the Middle East deserve some kind of relief. For sure, there won't be a lot of jobs out there unless they begin creating their own businesses but there is something that I would like to propose.

How about a "Credit Card Debt Relief" program that will lift the burden on those with credit over a certain amount? This is a plan that can be strategically crafted so that these brave people will not have the additional burden of foreclosure issues on one hand, and credit card issuers trying to collect debts on the other. What will it cost? I have no idea. But what I do know is that it will help to create some economic stability in the communities that these folks live in.

So what will it take; and who will be brave enough to jump start this idea?

Let's Move Hillsborough Forward

2010-08-15T18:48:00.000-04:00

I had the pleasure of listening to Norm Bouchard today at the Center for Spiritual Living Tampa on East Busch Blvd. Norm is an international author, and motivational speaker. His message was based on his book, "29 Questions for The Ordinary Life - Revealing the profound Amidst the Ordinary." Among the questions that I was prompted to ask was: What do all progressive and economically developing cities have in common? The answer, "Regional Mass Transit."

As I got home and picked up the Sunday paper, there was the answer in the Business Section by Robert Trigaux in the St. Pete Times - Regional mass transit: It's do or die. Agree or not, there is plenty food for thought in this article.

The Joy of Train Travel

2010-07-22T16:51:00.000-04:00

The secret is out and Hillsborough County, Florida is on its way to introducing Real Rail.

I have always enjoyed riding trains whether in crowded New York City, the clean quiet Rail Canada, the Washington, DC Metro Rail, or Amtrak. Upon relocating to Florida from Connecticut, I dreaded the drive. But when a friend suggested the Amtrak Auto train, it was the best option. I have been totally hooked! Several trips from Florida to Connecticut since then were solely on Amtrak. No plane, but a drive to the train station, then dinner (on the train), sleep and breakfast and off to my destination. So, no wonder that I look forward to what's in the pipeline for Florida.

First, the light rail system will start in Hillsborough County and extend to Pinellas, Polk and Sarasota counties. The proposed penny tax will supplement the development in Hillsborough. The expectation is that it will be supported by the voters on the ballot in November.

I am excited that a solution to the road congestion is eminent. It is rather disconcerting to have to drive everywhere and struggle with traffic. Those who don't like the idea of riding the trains should be happy to support the penny tax because they will be having the roads to themselves. Those of us who like rail travel will be riding the rails in style to our destinations - everybody wins!

A recent survey taken by the Tampa Bay Business Journal indicates that a majority of the people surveyed support the penny tax. One important fact resulting from the passage of the penny tax is that it will qualify the community for state and federal matching funds, which would quadruple the current investment.

It is particularly gratifying to see the public, private and corporate collaboration on a project of this magnitude. The parties should be commended. This entire project is an opportunity for sustainable economic growth in the Tampa Bay region. It is estimated that hundreds of new construction related jobs will be realized when the work begins. Although not much is mentioned about the economic impact to the areas where the light rail stations will be built. Just imagine the vibrancy of the shops and stores and boost for small businesses. As a supplement to the current program, officials should be encouraging small businesses and entrepreneurs to prepare themselves to invest in these areas.

So I thought it was worth looking at five things that one can anticipate doing while riding the rails:

Take a nap
Read
Work on a laptop
Study
Meditate

Next is the High Speed Rail. Florida's High Speed Rail program has been in development since the 1980's. It was in 1992 when the rail corridor of Tampa-Orlando-Miami was federally designated. However, in January 2010, the President came to Tampa and announced an $1.25 billion award to Florida in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds to start construction of the Tampa-Orlando leg of the corridor. Take a look at Florida's Super Region.

Access To Government Contracting To Get Easier

2010-06-16T23:33:00.001-04:00

Over the past few months several clients and colleagues have asked about new information on the government's plan to streamline the "government contracting process." Today, I received the following letter which will help to answer some of those questions. It also gives everyone who is interested an opportunity to comment or share ideas with the Task Force. Please see the letter below in its full context.

Dear Minority Business Owner:
On April 26, 2010, President Obama established the Interagency Task Force on Federal Contracting Opportunities for Small Businesses to develop proposals and recommendations to ensure that small businesses, including firms owned by women, minorities, socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, and service-disabled veterans, have fair access to Federal Government contracting. MBDA is one of the federal agencies on the Task Force and welcomes this opportunity to advance the interests of the Nation's more than four million minority-owned firms.

In support of the Task Force, the Department of Commerce, along with the Office of Management and Budget and the Small Business Administration, is hosting a public hearing on June 28, 2010 from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. in the auditorium of the Department of Commerce located at 1401 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20230.

We welcome your views and recommendations as we seek to identify: challenges faced by small businesses in pursuing federal contracts, best practices for overcoming these challenges, and outreach strategies to match small businesses with contracting and subcontracting opportunities. Particular topics to be explored are those around teaming and mentor-protege programs, set-asides and bundling, small business training, outreach, data collection, and federal workforce training. The Task Force expects to submit its recommendations to the President before the end of August.

Interested parties may offer oral comments at the public meeting to be held on June 28. To attend the public hearing, you must pre-register by June 21, 2010 by sending an e-mail to SB_TaskForce_Comments@sba.gov with your name, organization or business, along with contact information and the topics that you are interested in. Please put "Registration" in the subject line of the email message. Stakeholders may also provide written comments in lieu of, or in addition to participating in the public meeting. To submit written comments, please send them by June 30, 2010 to SB_TaskForce_Comments@sba.gov. Please put "Comment" in the subject line of the email message.

MBDA urges you to participate in this important event and thanks you in advance for your steadfast dedication to minority business development.

Sincerely,

David A. Hinson
National Director
Minority Business Development Agency

Citi Came Through For Small Businesses

2010-05-05T12:29:00.001-04:00

In my previous posts, I have made references to the lame excuses and slow responses by banks and lending institutions in the support of small businesses and communities. Today, I was pleased to see that CITI actually came through and placed funds "on the table" in support of small businesses. Here is the report in its entirety.

May 05, 2010 12:01 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Citi Announces $200 Million Fund to Spur Small Business Lending in Low Income U.S. Communities

Will Help Sustain and Grow U.S. Businesses, Drive Job Creation and Contribute to Nation’s Economic Recovery

Partnering with Calvert Foundation and Opportunity Finance Network to Deliver Critical Financing for Small Business

and Community Development

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Citi today announced the launch of the Communities at Work Fund, a $200 million fund that will help fuel small business lending in low-wealth and low-income U.S. communities.

    “The Communities at Work Fund will provide immediate and much-needed capital in many of the nation’s most distressed markets, stimulating local businesses and spurring job creation.”

The Communities at Work Fund will provide financing to both nonprofit and for profit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Loan Funds that will then lend to local businesses in low-income communities. The Fund will help

sustain and grow U.S. businesses, drive job creation and contribute to the economic recovery of communities that are

underserved by traditional financial institutions.

“Citi’s investment in the Communities at Work Fund underscores our commitment to the economic life of the communities

we serve and to the U.S. economic recovery,” said Citi CEO Vikram Pandit. “We recognize that too many small businesses, microenterprises, charter schools and community service institutions simply do not have access to credit, yet they are engines for economic growth. The Communities at Work Fund will leverage the expertise of the leaders in the Community Development finance sector and provide much-needed financing in these markets.”

CDFI Loan Funds have a 30-year history of serving as effective channels for creating economic opportunities in

underserved communities while providing positive financial results. CDFI Loan Funds provided $1.4 billion in financing in 2008 and have loaned $15.9 billion cumulatively supporting more than 48,500 small businesses. CDFI Loan Funds’ net charge-offs were lower than those of FDIC-insured institutions in 2008 and in 2009.

“Citi’s investment in the Communities at Work Fund is driven by our commitment to providing funding to small businesses and microenterprises, which are a primary source of job creation and opportunity for underserved communities,” said Bob Annibale, Global Director of Citi Microfinance and Community Development. “This is not philanthropy, but an investment in the CDFI sector, which is rooted in local communities and provides innovative financing for community development and economic growth."

“Citi is delighted to partner with Calvert Foundation and Opportunity Finance Network to deliver new liquidity for CDFIs,” said Andrew Ditton, Co-Head of Citi Community Capital. “They are leaders in the field of community development finance with a proven expertise in responsible and profitable lending to those communities most in need of capital.”

Citi will provide $199 million of capital through a combination of equity and loans with Calvert Foundation and Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) contributing the balance.

Calvert Foundation and OFN Bring Unmatched Expertise to Fund Management
Calvert Foundation and OFN, which have unsurpassed market expertise in CDFI Loan Funds, will manage the investment activity of the fund as well as its compliance and reporting. Calvert Foundation will manage lending and fund administration. OFN will manage marketing and compliance. Citi will contribute underwriting and risk management expertise.

“Small businesses are the engines of local economies, but the entrepreneurs behind these businesses often have the most trouble getting financing. These businesses are withering in the absence of financing,” said Calvert Foundation President and CEO Shari Berenbach. “By lending prudently and productively in markets outside the mainstream, the Communities at Work Fund will drive real change for underserved communities while working to provide financial returns for investors.”

“CDFIs who serve urban, rural and reservation-based markets in all 50 states have experienced increased demand throughout the recession – and we fully expect that trend to continue. We commend Citi for having the foresight to invest in the opportunity markets of today to help forge a better tomorrow,” said OFN President and CEO Mark Pinsky.

“The Communities at Work Fund will provide immediate and much-needed capital in many of the nation’s most distressed markets, stimulating local businesses and spurring job creation.”

Initiative Builds on Citi’s Commitment to Microenterprise and Community Development. The Communities at Work Fund builds upon Citi’s 30-year history of fostering economic growth and expanding access to financial products and services in underserved communities. Drawing on its global presence and breadth of business
capabilities, Citi, together with the Citi Foundation, provides grants and corporate contributions, tailored innovative products and services, and targeted programs to meet the community development goals of the areas in which it operates. Additionally, Citi Microfinance works across Citi’s business and regions to provide products and services for more than 100 microfinance institutions, networks and investors in over 40 countries that lend to the underserved.

Key microenterprise and community development initiatives by Citi include:

    * Over the past five years, Citi has provided CDFIs with over $300 million in loans and investments;
    * Citi recently announced a $600 million financing with the New York City Housing Authority to preserve and

modernize over 20,000 affordable housing units;
    * In 2010, Citi’s Banamex helped launch the Microfinance Growth Fund, a new lending facility for microfinance

institutions in Latin America and the Caribbean;
    * In 2009, Citi helped 388,000 homeowners in their efforts to avoid foreclosure, bringing the total to

approximately 824,000 since the start of the U.S. housing crisis in 2007; and
    * Citi is financing CDFIs, such as ACCION Texas, which provide access to credit for small businesses and is partnering with Grameen America and other community institutions to expand access to savings in underserved communities.

Over the past 25 years the Citi Foundation has been a long-time investor in the CDFI industry, and has provided more than $50 million in grants to support leading CDFIs such as Calvert Foundation and OFN and promote industry-wide innovation.

For more information about the Communities at Work Fund, please visit www.communitiesatworkfund.com

About Citi

Citi, the leading global financial services company, has approximately 200 million customer accounts and does business in more than 140 countries. Through Citicorp and Citi Holdings, Citi provides consumers, corporations, governments and institutions with a broad range of financial products and services, including consumer banking and credit, corporate and investment banking, securities brokerage, transaction services, and wealth management.

Additional information may be found at www.Citigroup.com or www.Citi.com.

Citi Microfinance:

Working across Citi’s businesses, product groups and geographies, Citi Microfinance serves more than 100 microfinance institutions (MFIs), networks and investors as clients in over 40 countries with products and services spanning the financial spectrum – from financing, access to capital markets, transaction services and hedging foreign exchange risk, to credit, savings, remittances and insurance products - to expand access to financial services for the underserved. www.citi.com/citi/microfinance Citi Community Capital Citi Community Capital (CCC) is a premier financial partner with nationally recognized expertise in financing all types of affordable housing and community reinvestment projects. CCC's origination, structuring, asset and risk management staff across the country provides creative financing solutions designed to meet their clients' needs. CCC helps community development financial institutions, real estate developers, national intermediaries and nonprofit organizations achieve their goals through a broad, integrated platform of debt and equity offerings.

About Calvert Social Investment Foundation

Calvert Foundation manages more than $200 million raised from thousands of caring investors who want to lift people out of poverty while earning a financial return on their investment. Investors do this through our Community Investment Note, which starts at $20 and is available in various terms and rates up to 3%. At maturity, investors get their money back with interest. While invested, their dollars are hard at work revitalizing poor communities in all 50 U.S. states and over 100 countries, reversing inequality and creating hope and opportunity where it’s needed most.

Calvert Foundation has more than 15 years of experience bringing together investors and community organizations. Our team asks the right questions and structures deals that are both financially sound and offer long-term benefits to communities in need. Learn more at www.calvertfoundation.org.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Calvert Foundation is a separate entity from Calvert Group Ltd. and its products should not be confused with any Calvert Group-sponsored investment product. In order to avoid confusion and be consistent when referring to Calvert Foundation in print news stories, always use “Calvert Foundation” as opposed to “Calvert” in headlines and subheads.

Opportunity Finance Network

Opportunity Finance Network (OFN), the leading national network of more than 160 private financial institutions, creates growth that is good for communities, investors, individuals, and the economy. Members of OFN are community development financial institutions (CDFIs) who deliver responsible lending to help low-wealth and low-income communities join the economic mainstream. To date, the opportunity finance industry has financed more than $25 billion in underserved markets in all 50 states, yielding more than 200,000 jobs, 500,000 housing units, and 5,000 community facility projects. More information is available at: www.opportunityfinance.net.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=6277809&lang=en

Contacts

Media Contact
Citi
Andrea Hurst, 212-559-4767
andrea.hurst@citi.com

Are Banks Really Lending To Small Businesses?

2010-03-21T03:31:00.001-04:00

I am really tired of listening to all of the bank commercials wooing small businesses by declaring their love and support. The big banks with huge ad dollars all claim that they are lending to small businesses. "We are Open for Business." However, it is a different story when the small business owner walks through the door (good credit and all). What is really going on? Are the banks out to cripple the economy even further? They realize the importance of small businesses because they spend a lot of money targeting them in their advertisements. Their websites even have fancy flash technology with tips on being a good business owner. Banks know what the public want to hear...more

The advertisements may as well state "don't come" to small businesses, because they are clearly unwelcomed. The ads are really a gimmick geared to bring in the small business deposits - not to lend. I have interviewed several bankers and heard the same LAME story. "We cannot afford to lend to XYZ business because of the risk." Well, in truth nothing is without risk. That is the business they choose. And if it is so risky to lend to small businesses, then set up some bench marks or provide them with an adviser after they receive the loan. Small business owners don't need a lecture before the loan by someone who never owned a business.

In this fragile economy, communities are being lost due to the fact that small business owners and idea people are closing up shop and hibernating. If the banks are not lending, and the stores are closing, and mom and pops are not open, their kids are moving away and homes are being foreclosed, then entire communities are disintegrated.

There has to be a solution. I know that many people hate government and want government out of their space. However, it may take legislation to create an oversight body (agency) to monitor loans provided by banks. Banks can do it on their own too. Grantors do it to non-profit organizations. They provide the funds and monitor its distribution. Why can't banks lend and create a similar structure rather than not lending because of fear that the funds will be misused. This process will create a much better dynamic for the small business community. They will have a body similar to a board of directors (advisory board) that assists in the managing the loan up to a given period.

I hope that some someone decides to put some serious thought into this situation, or sooner than later, more banks will be closing too.

Build Your Business Network

2010-02-28T22:11:00.001-05:00

I have been advocating in my recent newsletters for small businesses to "Buy Local" and support their neighbors. The more I think about it, the stronger I feel about the concept of small businesses supporting each other. Click here for copy of February newsletter.

I think as consumers, we must realize the value of supporting our area businesses. If we truly understand and are conscious of our decisions, then we may want to start we the banking institution that we support. Banks tend to be the anchor for communities. In other communities, it is the supermarket chain. As we cautiously make our way through this economic quagmire, it becomes more and more evident that in order for everyone around us to survive, building local relationships will help to encourage confidence.

Stay with the bank that is willing to support your business. Shop at the Mom and Pop Mart before heading to the supermarket.

If you have any ideas about supporting local entrepreneurs or strategies for supporting a local community, I would like to hear from you. Email me at iamurbizadvocate@gmail.com or add your comments to this entry.

You Can Start Your Own Business – Thanks to the City of Bridgeport

2010-01-29T21:46:00.000-05:00

The City of Bridgeport continues to demonstrate strong support for the small business community by hosting the 2010 Small Business Expo and Multicultural Marketplace on Friday, February 26th. This is a most important step for small
business owners, entrepreneurs, retirees, veterans and others who are considering business ownership. Congratulations to Mayor Finch and his staff for creating this grand opportunity. Small businesses are the primary source of employment in the United States. A recent survey by the Kauffman Foundation indicated that 3 million jobs per year were created by startups. In Connecticut, over 90 per cent of businesses are small. As the economy slows, big companies continue to lay off valued employees. Laid off employees can contribute to the economy by starting their own business and being self-sufficient. The downside is that new entrepreneurs tend to question their ability.

Is business ownership for me? Can I do it? Do I have the skills? Where will the money come from to start the business? All of these are legitimate questions. However, it is the reason that you would want to attend the expo. At the expo, many of these questions can be answered by experts provided by the City.

Too often, entrepreneurs overlook this valuable opportunity because they are unable to see the marketing opportunities that business expos provide. Statistics show that 80 percent of exhibitors at a small business expo increase their visibility by 100 per cent. This is because for a home-based business as an example, there is no store front, the business visibility is limited, advertising dollars are limited, and more often than not, there is no marketing budget. Opportunities by exhibiting include press coverage, walk-by traffic, face-to-face contacts, and potential customers specifically looking for your product or service.

Attendees also benefit from attending business expos. Most people looking to get back into the workforce have unique skills and many years of experience. They spend an average of 50 hours looking for another job; but how many think about starting a business based on their experience? The Small Business Expo and Multicultural Marketplace is the ideal venue for anyone considering business ownership. The organizer of this event, Ms. Deborah Caviness said that she expects a 75% increase in foot traffic because people now realize how important it is to start and operate their own business. She said, “People will be coming to see what businesses they are likely to start and just how to go about starting it. We will have experts on hand to assist those people on the spot.”

Some Tips for Expo Participants

ATTENDEES
Make the most of your time at the expo. If you are thinking of starting a business, walk the exhibit floor and observe the various displays. See what people are excited about. Talk to the exhibitors and get a perspective on their products or service. Figure out what type of business you would like to own. Picture yourself in their position and doing what they do – but better.

EXHIBITORS
10 tips that will help you to get ready for a successful business expo
1.   Decide what products(s) you will be exhibiting
2.   Order promotional items as giveaways
3.   Purchase an exhibit banner for your table or backdrop
4.   Send an email to all of your existing customers to alert them about your exhibit
5.   Plan to spend the entire day at the expo
6.   Prepare props that attract attention or buzz at your booth
7.   Plan to have an assistant at the booth so you can take breaks and walk around
8.   Use PRWEB or PRLOG to send out a press release that you will be exhibiting
9.   Send direct mail invitations to your best customers and suppliers
10.   Use social media to promote your presence at the event – ask friends and associates to join you at your booth

SOME EXHIBIT DONT’S
1.   Don’t try to sell anything at your booth. You will lose valuable marketing opportunities
2.   Don’t try to leave the expo early – stay until the very end
3.   Don’t have lunch or snacks at your booth in the presence of your customers
4.   Don’t ignore anyone who stops at your booth
5.   Don’t sit in your booth while talking with customers – unless it is a part of the demonstration

POST EVENT TIPS
1.   Contact all of the names of people who visited your booth
2.   Take a post event survey – send out a 10 question survey to your list
3.   Determine which leads can be qualified as potential and follow up with a phone    call within two days of the event
4.   Try to attend the post event reception. You will be likely to meet other exhibitors that you missed earlier

For more business tips and information on how to maximize your exhibit time, start a business or develop your business model, contact Harland Henry at SunBiz Showcase Alliance. Our website is www.sunbizshowcasealliance.com. To attend the expo or register as an exhibitor, please contact Deborah Caviness at 203.576.8473.

Number of New Companies Created Annually Remains Remarkably Constant Across Time, According to Kauffman Foundation Study

2010-01-17T18:32:00.001-05:00

Number of New Companies Created Annually Remains Remarkably Constant Across Time, According to Kauffman Foundation Study

Posted using ShareThis

It's the Year 2010

2010-01-01T19:24:00.000-05:00

I am sure most of you(like me) did something special to mark the end of 2009; at the same time welcome the birth of a new millennium and the start of 2010.

As many of you, I struggled through the year but the difference is that I used each and every day as a day in school. There were challenges and ups and downs and I likened the days and every experience to the days in college when I struggled through a class and was able to breathe a sigh of relief when the final exam was over.

In this case, regardless of the results, we have to be thankful that we are able to see another year. So we need to begin with blessings for 2010. All that we have learned and experienced during 2009 (good, bad or indifferent), we should chalk it up as "experience counted." As we emerge out of the ashes of 2009, let us remember the lessons and not repeat them again. Let us look forward, help someone, volunteer with an organization, join a board and make a difference.

I hold fast to my ideals that for us to survive the recession, we have to all look inward. The governments need to take care of its infrastructure that will support the small businesses. The small business owners need to take care of its employees and customers; and teachers need to teach, coach and instruct. If all of these elements would take place in synchrony we would expect that jobs would be created, students would want to stay local, shops and stores and all business transactions would be interrelated and people would prosper again. If several communities could be interrelated and share information and expertise, we would not have the problem of some communities receiving the bulk of stimulus funds while others have an abundance without a complete plan to execute the funds.

Let us hope that in 2010, the activity picks up so that everyone who needs a job can find one and excel in it.

All the Best to you.

Let's Hope For A Happy 2010

2009-12-24T13:05:00.000-05:00

Here is an article that may bring some hope to my last blog entry. It is entitled,

"Enhanced small business loan funding increased as Obama signs bill"

12:00 AM CST on Wednesday, December 23, 2009

By SHERYL JEAN / The Dallas Morning News

The U.S. Small Business Administration said Tuesday that it has received additional funding to support $4.5 billion in enhanced small business lending through Feb. 28.

Federal stimulus funding that let the SBA increase its guarantee and lower fees on its two most popular loans ran out Nov. 23. As of Tuesday, 1,070 small businesses were waiting to borrow $562 million, according to the SBA's Web site.

President Barack Obama signed an appropriations bill Saturday that included $125 million to extend the SBA's enhanced loans.

The SBA plans to begin new loan approvals by Monday. It first will fund applications in its Recovery Loan Queue, which began Nov. 23 for small businesses that wanted an enhanced loan and could wait for funding.

As part of the federal stimulus package, the SBA received $375 million to increase the guarantee on its 7a loans to 90 percent from 75 percent and to waive borrower fees on 7a and 504 loans.

Since February, the funding supported more than $16 billion in SBA loans nationwide.

The SBA's Dallas-Fort Worth office approved 1,327 loans amounting to $541.7 million from February through last Friday. The extended loan programs "mean thousands more small business owners have access to the credit they need," said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. She said she'll continue to work with Congress to meet Obama's goal of giving small businesses more access to credit to help drive the U.S. economic recovery through job creation.

The extension doesn't affect the SBA's America's Recovery Capital loan program, microloans, or 7a and 504 loans with standard guarantees and fees.

Small Businesses and the Economy

2009-12-05T19:53:00.001-05:00

Talk with any small business owner and you will probably hear the same cry from 80 % of them, "We need access to capital." But the unfortunate thing is that no one seems to be listening. Okay, I agree that there is a lot going on in the world. The leaders, politicians or whomever they may be that make the decisions are very very busy looking at how to screw everyone else out of heathcare, spend more money on the war; and worrying about their 401 k that just lost a few hundred thousand dollars.

The President this week (December 3, 2009) invited a large number of CEO's and business leaders to the White House to discuss the dilemma faced by the small business community. We look forward to seeing the result of that meeting. But first, I have some questions and opinions about the meeting (since everyone else has an opinion on everything these days). Were most of the guests really small business owners? When we think about a "small business" are we using the SBA's definition, or the main street definition? Because there is a vast difference in catering to an SBA type small business of 10 million dollars in annual revenues and the main street small business that is struggling to make 25 thousand dollars at the end of the year. That said, I wonder who was at that meeting to represent those guys?

What I hope would come out of that meeting is the President doing a few things:
1. Mandate every community based bank (all banks) to lend up to 75% of their profits to locally established businesses; and provide a 10% grant to non-profits (within a 30 mile geographic radius)

2. Mandate the banks to provide a representative or contractor to support the business. This will ensure that the money is spent and managed effectively

3. Mandate the credit reporting agencies and D&B to relax their reporting to allow for those who now are defined as poor credit risks the opportunity to rebuild their credit

4. Encourage every state to create a division to monitor and manage the distribution of funds and facilitate the growth of small businesses

5. Any business that was created before June 2009 should be eligible for the minimum loan amount

6. Any home based business should be given a credit of up to $500 by the state (county) to assist in paying for fees and licences

7. New small businesses and entrepreneurs (after June 2009) with a valid business plan should be given $500 at the launch of their business

8. A quarterly business showcase designed for small businesses should be manged by the state, or county so that all of the businesses that were created within the last quarter would have an opportunity to be known seen, and displayed

9. For every new employee acquired by any of these businesses for six months or more, their business gets tax credits and incentives like reduced utility rates (electricity, telephone etc).

10. For those guests that attended that nice big event at the White House, each of them contribute 25% of their profits to two businesses or organizations in their community or an organization of their choice, plus register to be a mentor for a designated entrepreneur or business owner

Okay, I know that I may be dreaming aloud but just imagine what would happen if all of this were to be manifested. The growth of communities would be sustainable, businesses would be able to employ additional help, and the non-profit organizations that are struggling with their outreach would be supported. But this is just a start to get things rolling. By including the utility companies in this true public-private partnership, everybody wins.

I hope that this week, I will hear some good news about the help for small businesses, because the only way (my opinion) that we are going to get out of this economic slump is by some creative economic development strategy as outlined above.

What I have outlined about is not too difficult to initiate. It just takes the President to articulate it and then act like he means it. Would you please, Sir?

Now, Mr or Ms Small Business Owner it is up to you to Register to Vote - NOW! It is up to you and your family to hold every politician accountable for this mess. Find out who your locate, state, county and federal representatives are and let them know that you exist.

7 Days of BizTips From SunBizShowcase Alliance for GEW - Sunday, Day 7

2009-11-22T11:27:00.000-05:00

It is Sunday, November 22, BIZ TIP 7

Pay close attention to your Carbon Footprint. Buy Smart - before buying or renting a vehicle, check out EPA's Green Vehicle Guide at: www.epa.gov/greenvehicle. This resource provides information on emissions, fuel economy, and performance.

Please continue to visit our website www.sunbizshowcasealliance.com for smart business information. If you are in need of a business coach, consultant, or economic development strategist, please contact Harland Henry at 239.243.9701.

Watch Sir Richard Branson speak about Global Entrepreneurship Week.

7 Days of BizTips From SunBizShowcase Alliance for GEW - Saturday, Day 6

2009-11-22T11:25:00.000-05:00

Friday, Day 6 BIZ TIP 6

Small business owners typically do not pay much attention to politics and their political representatives. However, it is extremely important that as a business person, you pay keen attention to who your legislators are (local, state and federal), and their voting records. To find out who represents you, visit:
http://www.votesmart.org/ or you may also visit your state's Office of the Secretary of the State's website.

7 Days of BizTips From SunBizShowcase Alliance for GEW - Friday, Day 5

2009-11-22T11:24:00.000-05:00

Friday, Day 5 BIZ TIP 5

Did you know that large businesses, federal and state agencies, colleges, even foreign governments post subcontracting opportunities on the internet? Hundreds of bids and proposals are posted on SUB-Net each day. To find these opportunities, visit http://web.sba.gov/subnet or email us for assistance at iamurbizadvocate@gmail.com. This is one of the services that SunBiz Showcase Alliance provides.

7 Days of BizTips From SunBizShowcase Alliance for GEW - Thursday, Day 4

2009-11-18T20:21:00.002-05:00

Thursday, Day 4 - BIZ TIP 4

Business people use their computers about 80% during the day without paying attention to the amount of energy used. Did you know that by using your laptops, you can use 80% less energy than using the desktop? The CO2 emission reductions = 400 lbs/year.

A Message From Secretary of State Hilary Clinton.