The HSU SBDC is a regional office of the Arkansas Small Business Development Center (ASBDC) and serves 10 counties: Clark, Dallas, Garland, Grant, Hot Spring, Howard, Montgomery, Pike, Polk and Sevier. The three-person office serves approximately 875 small businesses annually through consulting, training and research services.

SBDC is a university economic outreach program that offers three services to the business community: 1. Research/Information- The research program provides relevant and detailed information to help clients in making critical decisions. Some of the resources include sample business plans, industry start-up guides and CD-Rom databases. 2. Consulting-The consulting service emphasizes educating the client while working together to find practical solutions. It provides opportunities to learn how to start a business, how to manage a budget and how to apply for loans. 3. Training- The training program focuses on providing current information on a wide variety of business topics. ASBDC staff and professionals help teach basic business skills and provide training on more advanced topics.

“Because of the partnership between the Chamber and ASBDC our members as well as the entire community have an opportunity to learn how to start a business, train with other businesses, and consult with other business people,” said Dave Byerly, the President/CEO of the Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce. “With an opportunity as great as this, I believe our community will greatly benefit from what ASBDC has to offer.”

The Chamber will keep members posted on when ASBDC will be holding meetings and seminars. SBA loan programs, how to write a business plan, IRS small business tax workshop, starting a business in Arkansas, budgeting and the business of child care are just some of the seminars that the ASBDC holds.

“The partnership between the HSU Small Business Development Center and the Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce is not only a win-win for both partners but will better serve our ultimate goal of providing quality counseling and training to local or potential business owners in a timely fashion,” said Lonnie Jackson, HSU SBDC Director.

SBDC has many locations throughout the state of Arkansas. To learn more, call (501) 321-1700, ext. 270.