What is your organization’s name? Western Washington University Small Business Development Center

What is your mission and who does your organization serve? The Washington Small Business Development Center Network is your resource for expert business advising, management training and market research. SBDC advisors offer one-on-one technical assistance at no charge to make sure you have the information you need to make the decisions that are right for you and your company.

What exciting trends are you seeing with startups in Washington right now? Food product manufacturing, success with crowdfunding, success with startup loans, bitcoin activity, product development.

What do you hope to get out of partnering with WTIA on this first-ever First Look Forum in Bellingham? Connections with entrepreneurs and investors. Also share knowledge about the WWU SBDC program services that could benefit all attendees

Do you have any advice for the First Look Forum competitors? Keep it simple. state your market potential, know your numbers and assumptions, be confident.

 

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Written by: Jennifer Shelton

Jennifer Shelton is a Certified Business Advisor and Certified Global Business Professional for the Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Western Washington University in Bellingham, WA serving businesses in Whatcom County (WWU SBDC). Jennifer holds an MBA from Western Washington University and a BA of Communications from Seattle Pacific University. Jennifer brings 20 years of work experience in business development and communications. Her small business experience involves starting and managing a retail coffee shop in Fort Langley, BC. She has taught and written curriculum on business planning and technology called 21st Century Business Planning which has been used in the Washington State Self Employment Assistance Program. She is passionate about empowering business owners to create and sustain successful business ventures.