Imperial Valley Hosts Small Business Expo to Foster Local Entrepreneurship
EL CENTRO — On Wednesday, December 3, the Imperial Valley Small Business Development Center (IVSBDC) orchestrated its Small Business Expo, designed to forge connections among local entrepreneurs and business owners while offering vital resources to enhance their commercial ventures.
Viridiana Rosales, the IVSBDC Center Coordinator, emphasized the pivotal role such expos play for residents of the Imperial Valley.
The Business Expo is part of a broader initiative our network conducts throughout San Diego; however, it had not been previously offered in Imperial Valley.
Our goal is to provide existing businesses with the essential support necessary for expansion and growth, she noted.
The event commenced with enlightening panel discussions focused on business funding and procurement avenues.
Esteemed panelists hailed from notable organizations including Caltrans, Homeland Security, San Diego State University, First Foundation Bank, Prime Lending, and Accessity.
Key topics included accessing capital and financial preparation—crucial elements for both launching and sustaining a business, as well as avenues for engaging with various agencies via bidding and vendor opportunities.
Following the discussions, attendees engaged in a dynamic networking session, connecting with lenders, organizations, and supportive business entities. Rosales elucidated the IVSBDC’s mission, which extends beyond assisting startups.
“Many in the community associate us primarily with new businesses, yet we offer extensive resources for established enterprises seeking growth,” she remarked.
Participants were also afforded the opportunity to obtain complimentary professional headshots, courtesy of Lightbox Photography, a local small business.
Rosales advocated for the importance of effective self-marketing: “As a business owner, you embody your brand, and it’s essential to present yourself professionally, especially on platforms like LinkedIn,” she asserted.
Acknowledging the myriad challenges inherent in entrepreneurship, Rosales advised prospective business owners to seek assistance at the earliest stages. It’s never too early to ask for help. The sooner, the better.
I encourage anyone contemplating a business venture to pursue guidance right from the outset. Our one-on-one consulting and specialized training are designed to equip individuals with the tools they need to succeed, she recommended.
With an impressive turnout of approximately 72 entrepreneurs, Rosales expressed satisfaction with the event’s success. “Our aspiration is not merely to initiate businesses but to ensure they thrive,” she concluded.
Source link: Ivpressonline.com.
