Statewide BizCenters network gains full accreditation

The Oregon Small Business Development Center Network, or the BizCenters as they are known in Oregon, was awarded full accreditation from the Association of Small Business Development Centers, the national accrediting body for Small Business Development Centers.

The Oregon Small Business Development Center Network – which includes the Southwestern Oregon Community College Business Development Center in North Bend – is a three-way partnership of the Small Business Administration, the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department and Oregon community colleges and universities established by the state Legislature in 1983.

The accreditation review process, mandated by Congress, is based upon a strict set of standards guided by the Malcolm Bridge Quality Program to assure that the nation’s SBDC programs are operating at the highest levels of performance. The BizCenters provide resources to small business owners and entrepreneurs through 19 local centers throughout Oregon and the eSBDC Web site. In addition, and what clearly sets Oregon’s SBDC program apart, is the added capability to provide assistance to emerging technology companies as well as new startups and existing small businesses.

“The technology designation and capability align the SBDC program with Oregon’s overall economic development efforts. We put together a team of expert consultants with significant experience in the technology sector and working with high-performance companies,” said Bill Carter, state director of the Oregon SBDC program. “These technology business consultants bring expertise and statewide connections to help new entrepreneurs get off the ground, financed and competing in the global economy.”

The Southwestern BDC is located at 2455 Maple Leaf in North Bend. For more information or to schedule an appointment, those interested can call 756-6866 or visit the Web site at http://www.BizCenter.org.

Press Release Date: February 15, 2007