BY PATTY BRANT
Dan Regelski Director, FGCU/SBDC accepts official declaration of "SBA Day" from Sharon S. Craichy, Labelle Mayor - Commissioner
The promise of information that can help start or build a business brought local entrepreneurs out September 4 to hear experts from the Small Business Development Center and the Small Business Administration offer tips on becoming more successful. Entrepreneurs listened intently to advice on how to take advantage of federal programs geared to help them succeed - particularly how to land potentially lucrative federal contracts.
Gilbert Colon, US SBA Deputy District Director, let the audience know that there are "no gimmes, no giveaways." Business owners must do their homework and provide complete information on any and all paperwork, but the rewards are there for those willing to follow through.
Once a business has landed a federal or state contract, and that government entity is happy with the service and or products it receives, the door is open. That business stands a good chance of expanding its government dealings, the audience was told.
In 2002, Hendry County businesses received just $5.9 million in federal contracts, mainly Department of Defense, civilian agencies and the post office. By contrast, Collier County businesses received $6.978 million in DOF business; $16.134 million from civilian agencies and $7.517 million from the postal service, for a total of $30 million. Throughout the state, $9 billion in federal contracts were awarded.
Janice Groves, Director of the Hendry County Economic Develop
ment Council, explained local government incentives for businesses. The county offers an ad valorem tax abatement program, which can substantially reduce property taxes for businesses up to ten years. The abatement is not automatic. It must be applied for; businesses must meet salary requirements; and must provide a minimum of ten new jobs. To date, two companies have qualified for the program, including USSC and A. Duda & Sons.
Ms. Groves also explained that Hendry County has an Enterprise Zone that can provide substantial benefits to businesses.
One of the most exciting and least used programs tailors technology from the NASA program to small businesses, she added.
Tom Wallace, of Southwest Florida Regional Development Corp., explained how micro loans of up to $35,000 can often provide just the right amount of working capital a small business might need. He also noted that, except for disaster situations, SBA
provides loan programs - not grants. All monies must be repaid.
Dan Regelski, Director of the Small Business Development Center, College of Business FGCU, explained that it is always best to create a relationship with your lender before you need to borrow money. "Your banker is your best friend," he said. Banks like to lend money on low risk loans. It's easy for
bankers to say "yes" to SBA program recipients, he said, because banks like the SBA guarantee. Another program, SCORE, will match entrepreneurs with volunteers, retired businessmen and women, who can help map a course toward success, as well. Call the chamber of commerce at 675-0125 to set up an appointment.
At lease one small business owner came away from the seminar with some good ideas. Willie Thomas, of LaBelle, wants to expand his three-year-old lawn care business. He hopes to get a
micro loan to add and refurbish equipment.
The SBA hopes local residents will take their message seriously and let them make the "federal maze" more accessible to entrepreneurs. You can get more information on-line at the SBA website at www.sba.gov. You can also contact the Small Business Development Center at 239-225-4220 or online at www.fgcu.edu/cob/sbdc.
This article first appeared in Hendry County's Caloosa Belle. Reprinted with permission.
