Third Annual Business Matchmaking and Networking Event
Register Today- Early Bird registration ends May 15th, 2009 Friday, August 14, 2009
8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Fresno Radisson Hotel & Conference Center
The City of Fresno, along with organizing partners, is hosting the 3rd Annual Business Matchmaking and Networking Event on August 14, 2009 in Fresno. The focus of this event is to match large private companies and government buyers with minority-owned, woman-owned, disabled veteran-owned, and locally-owned business vendors who are limited in their ability to gain exposure to contracts.
The event will feature one-on-one meetings between the buyers from large corporations and public agencies, and representatives from a pool of small businesses. In the twelve-minute face-to-face meetings, these small businesses focus on presenting information about their products and services to the local, state, federal, and private buying organizations.
In addition to the actual event there will be a training session available on June 10th for registered Sellers. In this training session small businesses will learn about certifications often required to do business with large entities and learn effective matchmaking techniques. The small businesses attending the workshop will have the opportunity to choose 2 out of 5 of their one-on-one appointments depending upon matching their products and services with buyers.
If you are a local business that could benefit from increased exposure and networking opportunities, then this event is for you.
Registration Rate Options:
Early Bird Rate: $99
Rates after May 15th, 2009: $175
For more information, call (559) 621-8367, email Dawn.Steele@Fresno.Gov, or check out the Business Matchmaking Website.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Friday, May 1, 2009
Gabriela Mello Honored as Central California 2009 Financial Services Champion of the Year
Gabriela Mello Honored as Central California
2009 Financial Services Champion of the Year
National Small Business Week May 17-23, 2009
Fresno, CA – The Fresno District Office of the U. S. Small Business Administration has named Gabriela Mello as the 2009 Central California Financial Services Champion of the Year. Champion awards are presented by SBA as part of National Small Business Week celebrated nationally May 17-23, 2009.
The award presentation and reception for Gabriela Mello will be held at the Developing Hispanic Leaders Gala 2009 on Friday, May 8th beginning at 6:30 pm at the Fresno Convention Center. For additional information regarding the presentation ceremony please contact Melende Ward at (559) 487-5791, ext 143. For information regarding the Gala contact Anna Medina at the Fresno Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (559) 222-8705.
Mello was selected for this prestigious award because of her outstanding advocacy efforts and commitment to support entrepreneurs in business entrepreneurship and was nominated for the award by the Fresno Area, Kern County and Tulare Kings Hispanic Chambers of Commerce. Nominations for this award were solicited from throughout the 15-county Central California area.
Carlos G. Mendoza, District Director of the Fresno SBA Office, said, "Gabriela is a role model for all small business owners. Not only is she a tremendous asset as a mentor, but she is also a leader in our business community. We are honored to present Gabriela Mello with the Central California Financial Services Champion of the Year Award."
Upon hearing of her selection for the award, Gabriela said, "I’m honored by the recognition as the Financial Services Champion of the Year. I will continue to work hard to advocate for small businesses and to support entrepreneurs in our communities. I am so grateful to the SBA for helping our small business owners and for the partnership we have developed throughout the years."
Mello has an extensive background in business lending. Starting as a bank teller she worked her way up in the financial world to manage several Wells Fargo branches. She currently is the Community Relations Officer for Citibank and covers the area from Central and South San Joaquin Valley through the Silicon Valley to promote programs for small business assistance.
As a long time advocate for small business Mello believes that education is the key to success. Financing is critical for the overall success of small business entrepreneurs. Mello takes the time and effort to see that each and every one of her clients is provided with opportunities to access the necessary capital in order to succeed. She has been instrumental in promoting financing literacy for small, emerging minority owned businesses and volunteers as a business instructor for many Hispanic Chamber of Commerce events and workshops throughout the State.
Mello volunteers her time and expertise to several organizations such as Junior Achievement, Kern Action Partnership Community Food Bank, Workforce Connection, Fresno Housing Authority and many more.
Dora Westerlund, President of the Fresno Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce said, “Gabriela Mello is a great leader in our community; it is through her commitment and determination that businesses can achieve their goals”.
Financial Services Champion of the Year Award nominations are evaluated on the following criteria:
1. Outside of regular business duties, the amount and quality of assistance given small businesses to obtain financing.
2. Advocacy for changes in the financial services industry to assist small companies.
3. Encouragement of the flow of investment capital to small ventures.
4. Active support for legislative or regulatory action designed to help small firms.
5. Other significant contributions through the advocacy efforts of the financial services or accounting industries to advance small business interests.
This year marks the 46th annual proclamation by the President calling for the celebration of National Small Business Week. National Small Business Week recognizes outstanding small business owners for their personal achievements and contributions to the nation’s economy.
-the end-
2009 Financial Services Champion of the Year
National Small Business Week May 17-23, 2009
Fresno, CA – The Fresno District Office of the U. S. Small Business Administration has named Gabriela Mello as the 2009 Central California Financial Services Champion of the Year. Champion awards are presented by SBA as part of National Small Business Week celebrated nationally May 17-23, 2009.
The award presentation and reception for Gabriela Mello will be held at the Developing Hispanic Leaders Gala 2009 on Friday, May 8th beginning at 6:30 pm at the Fresno Convention Center. For additional information regarding the presentation ceremony please contact Melende Ward at (559) 487-5791, ext 143. For information regarding the Gala contact Anna Medina at the Fresno Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (559) 222-8705.
Mello was selected for this prestigious award because of her outstanding advocacy efforts and commitment to support entrepreneurs in business entrepreneurship and was nominated for the award by the Fresno Area, Kern County and Tulare Kings Hispanic Chambers of Commerce. Nominations for this award were solicited from throughout the 15-county Central California area.
Carlos G. Mendoza, District Director of the Fresno SBA Office, said, "Gabriela is a role model for all small business owners. Not only is she a tremendous asset as a mentor, but she is also a leader in our business community. We are honored to present Gabriela Mello with the Central California Financial Services Champion of the Year Award."
Upon hearing of her selection for the award, Gabriela said, "I’m honored by the recognition as the Financial Services Champion of the Year. I will continue to work hard to advocate for small businesses and to support entrepreneurs in our communities. I am so grateful to the SBA for helping our small business owners and for the partnership we have developed throughout the years."
Mello has an extensive background in business lending. Starting as a bank teller she worked her way up in the financial world to manage several Wells Fargo branches. She currently is the Community Relations Officer for Citibank and covers the area from Central and South San Joaquin Valley through the Silicon Valley to promote programs for small business assistance.
As a long time advocate for small business Mello believes that education is the key to success. Financing is critical for the overall success of small business entrepreneurs. Mello takes the time and effort to see that each and every one of her clients is provided with opportunities to access the necessary capital in order to succeed. She has been instrumental in promoting financing literacy for small, emerging minority owned businesses and volunteers as a business instructor for many Hispanic Chamber of Commerce events and workshops throughout the State.
Mello volunteers her time and expertise to several organizations such as Junior Achievement, Kern Action Partnership Community Food Bank, Workforce Connection, Fresno Housing Authority and many more.
Dora Westerlund, President of the Fresno Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce said, “Gabriela Mello is a great leader in our community; it is through her commitment and determination that businesses can achieve their goals”.
Financial Services Champion of the Year Award nominations are evaluated on the following criteria:
1. Outside of regular business duties, the amount and quality of assistance given small businesses to obtain financing.
2. Advocacy for changes in the financial services industry to assist small companies.
3. Encouragement of the flow of investment capital to small ventures.
4. Active support for legislative or regulatory action designed to help small firms.
5. Other significant contributions through the advocacy efforts of the financial services or accounting industries to advance small business interests.
This year marks the 46th annual proclamation by the President calling for the celebration of National Small Business Week. National Small Business Week recognizes outstanding small business owners for their personal achievements and contributions to the nation’s economy.
-the end-
Thursday, April 30, 2009
SBA Resource Day – Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce
SBA Resource Day – Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce
Salinas, CA - The U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be meeting with small business entrepreneurs on May 19, 2009 at the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce to provide information on how the SBA and our many resource partners can help you in the growth and development of your own small business.
During the SBA visit, entrepreneurs, startup companies and even seasoned firms can confidentially discuss and review business strategies. Topics of discussion may include how to start a small business, how to apply for a SBA loan, selling to the federal government and an overview of the many SBA management and technical assistance programs that are available to assist small business entrepreneurs.
SBA realizes that business entrepreneurs are very busy and to leave their businesses for any length of time can be difficult. The Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce is a tremendous resource for entrepreneurs and SBA appreciates the donation of their convenient location for holding the appointment sessions.
Entrepreneurs often find that running questions, concerns and ideas past a seasoned small business counselor or an individual outside of their own business can help in offering support and guidance. Information on the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and SCORE programs, both of which are local resources available in the Salinas area, will be provided during the day.
Advance appointments are necessary and can be arranged by contacting the Fresno SBA District Office at 800-359-1833, option 6, or (559) 487-5791, or by emailing the Fresno SBA office at william.hori@sba.gov. The Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce is located at 119 E. Alisal Street in Salinas. Appointments will be held on May 19, 2009 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
SBA has many programs and services to offer to new and existing small business owners. For more information on SBA programs visit www.sba.gov or call (559) 487-5791.
Salinas, CA - The U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be meeting with small business entrepreneurs on May 19, 2009 at the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce to provide information on how the SBA and our many resource partners can help you in the growth and development of your own small business.
During the SBA visit, entrepreneurs, startup companies and even seasoned firms can confidentially discuss and review business strategies. Topics of discussion may include how to start a small business, how to apply for a SBA loan, selling to the federal government and an overview of the many SBA management and technical assistance programs that are available to assist small business entrepreneurs.
SBA realizes that business entrepreneurs are very busy and to leave their businesses for any length of time can be difficult. The Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce is a tremendous resource for entrepreneurs and SBA appreciates the donation of their convenient location for holding the appointment sessions.
Entrepreneurs often find that running questions, concerns and ideas past a seasoned small business counselor or an individual outside of their own business can help in offering support and guidance. Information on the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and SCORE programs, both of which are local resources available in the Salinas area, will be provided during the day.
Advance appointments are necessary and can be arranged by contacting the Fresno SBA District Office at 800-359-1833, option 6, or (559) 487-5791, or by emailing the Fresno SBA office at william.hori@sba.gov. The Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce is located at 119 E. Alisal Street in Salinas. Appointments will be held on May 19, 2009 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
SBA has many programs and services to offer to new and existing small business owners. For more information on SBA programs visit www.sba.gov or call (559) 487-5791.
San Luis Obispo County SBDC Resource Day!
San Luis Obispo, California
UC Merced Small Business Development Center
Resource Day – Economic Vitality Corporation Offices
Fresno, CA - The University of California Merced Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will be meeting with small business entrepreneurs beginning April 30, 2009 at the Economic Vitality Corporation (EVC) “Creekside Center” www.sloevc.org to provide information on how the SBDC business consultants can help you in the growth and development of your small business.
During the SBDC visit, entrepreneurs, startup companies and even seasoned firms can confidentially discuss and review business strategies. Topics of discussion may include how to start a small business, how to apply for a SBA loan, request research assistance, selling to the federal government and an overview of our technical assistance programs that are available to assist small business entrepreneurs.
SBDC consultants realize that business entrepreneurs are very busy and to leave their businesses for any length of time can be difficult. The EVC is a tremendous resource for entrepreneurs and UC Merced SBDC leadership appreciates the donation of their convenient location for holding the appointment sessions. A UC Merced SBDC business consultant will be available for appointments at the EVC on April 30, May 15, May 28, June 11 and June 25, 2009 in Interview Room 2.
Entrepreneurs often find that discussing questions in a confidential and unbiased setting can help identify and clarify key decisions in order to strengthen their strategic direction.
Advance appointments are necessary and can be arranged by contacting the UC Merced SBDC Regional Office at (877) UCM-SBDC (877.826.7232) or by emailing the office casbdc@ucmerced.edu. The EVC is located at 4111 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo. Appointments will be held from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
For more information on the UC Merced SBDC Regional Network, please visit http://sbdc.ucmerced.edu or call (877) UCM-SBDC.
UC Merced Small Business Development Center
Resource Day – Economic Vitality Corporation Offices
Fresno, CA - The University of California Merced Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will be meeting with small business entrepreneurs beginning April 30, 2009 at the Economic Vitality Corporation (EVC) “Creekside Center” www.sloevc.org to provide information on how the SBDC business consultants can help you in the growth and development of your small business.
During the SBDC visit, entrepreneurs, startup companies and even seasoned firms can confidentially discuss and review business strategies. Topics of discussion may include how to start a small business, how to apply for a SBA loan, request research assistance, selling to the federal government and an overview of our technical assistance programs that are available to assist small business entrepreneurs.
SBDC consultants realize that business entrepreneurs are very busy and to leave their businesses for any length of time can be difficult. The EVC is a tremendous resource for entrepreneurs and UC Merced SBDC leadership appreciates the donation of their convenient location for holding the appointment sessions. A UC Merced SBDC business consultant will be available for appointments at the EVC on April 30, May 15, May 28, June 11 and June 25, 2009 in Interview Room 2.
Entrepreneurs often find that discussing questions in a confidential and unbiased setting can help identify and clarify key decisions in order to strengthen their strategic direction.
Advance appointments are necessary and can be arranged by contacting the UC Merced SBDC Regional Office at (877) UCM-SBDC (877.826.7232) or by emailing the office casbdc@ucmerced.edu. The EVC is located at 4111 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo. Appointments will be held from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
For more information on the UC Merced SBDC Regional Network, please visit http://sbdc.ucmerced.edu or call (877) UCM-SBDC.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Thriving Business Owner to Share Tips and Advice During SBA’s April 30th Web Chat
Release Date: April 23, 2009
Contact: Cecelia Taylor (202) 401-3059
Release Number: MA09-04
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news
Thriving Business Owner to Share Tips and Advice During SBA’s April Web Chat
WASHINGTON – In recognition of National Small Business Week, SBA’s Web chat series will shine a spotlight on 2009 Kentucky Small Business Person of the Year Thomas E. Masterson, owner of T.E.M. Electric, Inc. of Lexington.
Masterson started his business 10 years ago, branching out on his own after more than 30 years in the electrical industry. Since then, the company has experienced success and growth, with the help of the SBA and its resource partners.
Masterson at first ran the company from his living room, using business management skills he received through the SBA’s Small Business Development Center Program. T.E.M. later became 8(a) and HUBZone-certified as a minority-owned business, which opened the doors to government contracting opportunities. Masterson has built a solid reputation in the government contracting arena as a subcontractor, and today is a prime contractor on federal contracts.
National Small Business Week will take place in Washington, D.C, May 17-23.
The National Small Business Person of the Year and runners-up will be selected from among the 53 state small business winners, including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. More than 100 outstanding small business owners will be honored. For more information, including a schedule and registration information, visit www.NationalSmallBusinessWeek.com.
WHO: Small business owner Thomas E. Masterson will host the April Web chat on "Entrepreneur's Spotlight: Maintaining Business Success," to share his story of success, and provide helpful insights on the successes and challenges of entrepreneurship. Chat participants can receive helpful tips and advice on how to maintain business success.
WHAT: SBA’s Web chat series, provides small business owners an opportunity to chat about relevant business issues online with experts, industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs. Chat participants have direct, real-time access to the Web chats via questions they submit online, both in advance and during the live session.
WHEN: April 30, 2009, 1 – 2 p.m. ET
HOW: Participants can join the live Web chat by visiting www.sba.gov, and clicking the "Online Business Chat" icon. Web chat participants may post questions for Masterson before the April 30th chat at http://app1.sba.gov/livemeeting/apr09/.
Contact: Cecelia Taylor (202) 401-3059
Release Number: MA09-04
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news
Thriving Business Owner to Share Tips and Advice During SBA’s April Web Chat
WASHINGTON – In recognition of National Small Business Week, SBA’s Web chat series will shine a spotlight on 2009 Kentucky Small Business Person of the Year Thomas E. Masterson, owner of T.E.M. Electric, Inc. of Lexington.
Masterson started his business 10 years ago, branching out on his own after more than 30 years in the electrical industry. Since then, the company has experienced success and growth, with the help of the SBA and its resource partners.
Masterson at first ran the company from his living room, using business management skills he received through the SBA’s Small Business Development Center Program. T.E.M. later became 8(a) and HUBZone-certified as a minority-owned business, which opened the doors to government contracting opportunities. Masterson has built a solid reputation in the government contracting arena as a subcontractor, and today is a prime contractor on federal contracts.
National Small Business Week will take place in Washington, D.C, May 17-23.
The National Small Business Person of the Year and runners-up will be selected from among the 53 state small business winners, including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. More than 100 outstanding small business owners will be honored. For more information, including a schedule and registration information, visit www.NationalSmallBusinessWeek.com.
WHO: Small business owner Thomas E. Masterson will host the April Web chat on "Entrepreneur's Spotlight: Maintaining Business Success," to share his story of success, and provide helpful insights on the successes and challenges of entrepreneurship. Chat participants can receive helpful tips and advice on how to maintain business success.
WHAT: SBA’s Web chat series, provides small business owners an opportunity to chat about relevant business issues online with experts, industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs. Chat participants have direct, real-time access to the Web chats via questions they submit online, both in advance and during the live session.
WHEN: April 30, 2009, 1 – 2 p.m. ET
HOW: Participants can join the live Web chat by visiting www.sba.gov, and clicking the "Online Business Chat" icon. Web chat participants may post questions for Masterson before the April 30th chat at http://app1.sba.gov/livemeeting/apr09/.
Friday, April 3, 2009
SBA Resource Day – Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce
SBA Resource Day – Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce
Salinas, CA - The U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be meeting with small business entrepreneurs on April 21, 2009 at the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce to provide information on how the SBA and our many resource partners can help you in the growth and development of your own small business.
During the SBA visit, entrepreneurs, startup companies and even seasoned firms can confidentially discuss and review business strategies. Topics of discussion may include how to start a small business, how to apply for a SBA loan, selling to the federal government and an overview of the many SBA management and technical assistance programs that are available to assist small business entrepreneurs.
SBA realizes that business entrepreneurs are very busy and to leave their businesses for any length of time can be difficult. The Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce is a tremendous resource for entrepreneurs and SBA appreciates the donation of their convenient location for holding the appointment sessions. SBA will hold the SBA Resource Day at the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce on the third Tuesday of each month thru April.
Entrepreneurs often find that running questions, concerns and ideas past a seasoned small business counselor or an individual outside of their own business can help in offering support and guidance. Information on the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and SCORE programs, both of which are local resources available in the Salinas area, will be provided during the day.
Advance appointments are necessary and can be arranged by contacting the Fresno SBA District Office at 800-359-1833, option 6, or (559) 487-5791, or by emailing the Fresno SBA office at william.hori@sba.gov. The Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce is located at 119 E. Alisal Street in Salinas. Appointments will be held on April 21, 2009 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
SBA has many programs and services to offer to new and existing small business owners. For more information on SBA programs visit www.sba.gov or call (559) 487-5791.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 is good news for America’s small business. The Act will provide several tools to make small businesses more competitive. For additional Recovery information including information on SBA products and services please contact the Fresno District Office at (559) 487-5791 or visit us at www.sba.gov.
Salinas, CA - The U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be meeting with small business entrepreneurs on April 21, 2009 at the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce to provide information on how the SBA and our many resource partners can help you in the growth and development of your own small business.
During the SBA visit, entrepreneurs, startup companies and even seasoned firms can confidentially discuss and review business strategies. Topics of discussion may include how to start a small business, how to apply for a SBA loan, selling to the federal government and an overview of the many SBA management and technical assistance programs that are available to assist small business entrepreneurs.
SBA realizes that business entrepreneurs are very busy and to leave their businesses for any length of time can be difficult. The Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce is a tremendous resource for entrepreneurs and SBA appreciates the donation of their convenient location for holding the appointment sessions. SBA will hold the SBA Resource Day at the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce on the third Tuesday of each month thru April.
Entrepreneurs often find that running questions, concerns and ideas past a seasoned small business counselor or an individual outside of their own business can help in offering support and guidance. Information on the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and SCORE programs, both of which are local resources available in the Salinas area, will be provided during the day.
Advance appointments are necessary and can be arranged by contacting the Fresno SBA District Office at 800-359-1833, option 6, or (559) 487-5791, or by emailing the Fresno SBA office at william.hori@sba.gov. The Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce is located at 119 E. Alisal Street in Salinas. Appointments will be held on April 21, 2009 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
SBA has many programs and services to offer to new and existing small business owners. For more information on SBA programs visit www.sba.gov or call (559) 487-5791.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 is good news for America’s small business. The Act will provide several tools to make small businesses more competitive. For additional Recovery information including information on SBA products and services please contact the Fresno District Office at (559) 487-5791 or visit us at www.sba.gov.
Karen Gordon Mills Confirmed By Senate as SBA Administrator
Karen Gordon Mills Confirmed By Senate as SBA Administrator
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate today confirmed by unanimous consent President Barack Obama’s nomination of Karen Gordon Mills as the 23rd Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration.
“Small business is the backbone of the American economy,” Mills said upon her confirmation. “The SBA has a vital role to play in supporting our nation’s small businesses so that they can be the key driver in getting our economy moving again. I look forward to leading this critical agency at this important time.
“I want to thank President Obama for this opportunity to serve as a voice for our nation’s small business owners and entrepreneurs,” Mills said. “I would also like to express my appreciation to Darryl Hairston for his leadership as Acting Administrator during this transition, along with everyone at the SBA for the hard work they are doing to implement the important programs of the Recovery Act.”
In testimony on April 1 before the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Mills discussed her hands-on experience managing and helping to grow small businesses.
“I was there on the factory floor in Arkansas and Ohio working to weather the recession of the early ‘90s,” she said. “Those experiences give me a deep understanding of what our small businesses need today to survive this downturn and to prosper in the years ahead. Since then, I have helped grow companies in organic food, and women’s media, and spent time in rural Maine working with our boat builders and composite technology to help them compete throughout the globe.
“The sum of my experience is this: I am a believer in American small business. I am a believer in America’s ability to manufacture goods and services that are world class, and I am a believer in America’s spirit of entrepreneurship. This spirit is one of our country’s greatest assets and we need to cultivate it today, more than ever.”
As Administrator of the SBA, Mills will direct a federal agency with more than 2,000 full-time employees, with a leading role in helping small business owners and entrepreneurs secure financing, technical assistance and training, and federal contracts. SBA also plays a leading role in disaster recovery by making low interest loans.
Mills, of Brunswick, Maine, was president of MMP Group and has a 25-year career of investing in and growing small businesses. In 2007, she was appointed by Maine Gov. John Baldacci as chair of the state’s Council on Competitiveness and the Economy, where she focused on attracting investment in rural and regional development initiatives. She also co-authored a Brookings Institute paper on competitive clusters.
Mills is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and has served as vice chairman of the Harvard Overseers. She holds a degree in economics from Harvard University and an MBA from Harvard Business School, where she was a Baker Scholar. Mills and her husband Barry Mills, president of Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, have three sons.
Link to Mills’ Statement to the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship:
http://sbc.senate.gov/hearings/testimony/09_04_01_Mills_hearing/Mills_statement.pdf
Release Date: April 3, 2009
Contact: Jonathan Swain (202) 205-6740
Release Number: 09-20 FRESNO
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate today confirmed by unanimous consent President Barack Obama’s nomination of Karen Gordon Mills as the 23rd Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration.
“Small business is the backbone of the American economy,” Mills said upon her confirmation. “The SBA has a vital role to play in supporting our nation’s small businesses so that they can be the key driver in getting our economy moving again. I look forward to leading this critical agency at this important time.
“I want to thank President Obama for this opportunity to serve as a voice for our nation’s small business owners and entrepreneurs,” Mills said. “I would also like to express my appreciation to Darryl Hairston for his leadership as Acting Administrator during this transition, along with everyone at the SBA for the hard work they are doing to implement the important programs of the Recovery Act.”
In testimony on April 1 before the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Mills discussed her hands-on experience managing and helping to grow small businesses.
“I was there on the factory floor in Arkansas and Ohio working to weather the recession of the early ‘90s,” she said. “Those experiences give me a deep understanding of what our small businesses need today to survive this downturn and to prosper in the years ahead. Since then, I have helped grow companies in organic food, and women’s media, and spent time in rural Maine working with our boat builders and composite technology to help them compete throughout the globe.
“The sum of my experience is this: I am a believer in American small business. I am a believer in America’s ability to manufacture goods and services that are world class, and I am a believer in America’s spirit of entrepreneurship. This spirit is one of our country’s greatest assets and we need to cultivate it today, more than ever.”
As Administrator of the SBA, Mills will direct a federal agency with more than 2,000 full-time employees, with a leading role in helping small business owners and entrepreneurs secure financing, technical assistance and training, and federal contracts. SBA also plays a leading role in disaster recovery by making low interest loans.
Mills, of Brunswick, Maine, was president of MMP Group and has a 25-year career of investing in and growing small businesses. In 2007, she was appointed by Maine Gov. John Baldacci as chair of the state’s Council on Competitiveness and the Economy, where she focused on attracting investment in rural and regional development initiatives. She also co-authored a Brookings Institute paper on competitive clusters.
Mills is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and has served as vice chairman of the Harvard Overseers. She holds a degree in economics from Harvard University and an MBA from Harvard Business School, where she was a Baker Scholar. Mills and her husband Barry Mills, president of Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, have three sons.
Link to Mills’ Statement to the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship:
http://sbc.senate.gov/hearings/testimony/09_04_01_Mills_hearing/Mills_statement.pdf
Release Date: April 3, 2009
Contact: Jonathan Swain (202) 205-6740
Release Number: 09-20 FRESNO
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news
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