Spotlight: Small Business Development Center Luncheon

The Walton County Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a luncheon featuring a valuable presentation from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the University of Georgia. Chamber luncheons are a highlight of our events calendar, and this annual event always provides attendees with great insights into the free services offered by the SBDC to support small businesses in our community. Whether you're a Chamber member or not, the resources and expertise available through the SBDC can help you grow your business, and it's all accessible right here in Walton County.

UGA's Small Business Development Center Presentation Recap

The Small Business Development Center at the University of Georgia is a trusted resource dedicated to helping small businesses grow and thrive. They provide a range of consulting, training, and special initiatives to equip entrepreneurs and small business owners with the tools, training, and resources they need to succeed. The SBDC's mission is clear: to empower small business owners to achieve their goals and reach new levels of success.

Whether you're just getting started or looking to expand your current business, the SBDC is here to support you at every stage. From strategic planning and startup assistance to accounting, finance, procurement, and marketing strategy, their consulting services cover a wide variety of business needs. Here are just a few examples of how the SBDC can impact you and your small business:

• Action-Oriented Support: The process begins with contacting your local SBDC office and making an appointment. After meeting with a consultant, you'll receive an action plan tailored to your business. From there, you'll work on identified tasks, receive additional training as needed, and make tangible progress toward your business goals.
• Consulting Services: Meet with their expert consultants who can help you develop a strategic business plan, enhance your marketing approach, optimize your finances, and more. The SBDC's consulting services are tailored to your unique business needs so that you can get personalized and actionable advice.
• Training Programs: The SBDC also offers a variety of training opportunities designed to address the most critical challenges faced by small business owners. Sessions are taught by experts and trained facilitators and are available online, in-person, or on-demand. Enjoy the flexibility you need to continue learning on your schedule with SBDC.

Success Stories from the Small Business Development Center

The impact of the SBDC's work is impressive. Over the past five years, the SBDC has helped start over 2,000 businesses, generated more than $9 billion in sales, and created nearly 15,000 jobs. These numbers reflect not just economic growth but also the commitment to empowering small business owners who have turned their entrepreneurial dreams into reality. For small businesses in Walton County, the opportunity to leverage these resources is at your fingertips when take advantage of this community partnership. The SBDC's services are designed to meet you where you are so you can receive guidance, training, and support to overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities.

The Value of Chamber Luncheons: Networking, Learning, and Growing

The SBDC luncheon is just one example of the many benefits of attending Walton County Chamber events. Our luncheons are more than just a chance to enjoy a meal—they're also great opportunities to network, learn, and connect with fellow local business owners and community leaders.

Here are just a few reasons why attending Walton County Chamber of Commerce luncheons and other events can help you and your business grow and succeed.

• Networking Opportunities: Chamber luncheons offer a regularly scheduled space to meet other local business owners, share ideas, and build relationships. These connections can lead to valuable partnerships, new collaborations, and even new customers. Networking is one of the most powerful tools for growing your business, and the Chamber provides a welcoming environment to make those connections happen. From luncheons to Coffee & Connections to our referral groups, you have every opportunity to network on a regular basis through local Chamber events.
• Learning from Experts: Our luncheons feature guest speakers who are experts in their fields, so you can gain insights that will help you run your business more effectively. From marketing strategies to financial management, the topics covered at our luncheons are designed to address the real-world challenges faced by small businesses and Walton County community members.
• Staying Informed: Luncheons are designed to help keep you informed about everything from local economic developments to community initiatives and provide you with resources for small businesses. Staying engaged with the Walton County Chamber means staying in the loop about opportunities that can benefit your business.
• Community Engagement: Being part of the Chamber also means being an active participant in the local small business community. Walton County Chamber luncheons promote a sense of belonging and provide a platform for local businesses to support one another, share successes, and work together to strengthen our local economy.

Taking the Next Step: Engage with the Chamber and SBDC

If you haven't yet attended a Chamber luncheon, now is the perfect time to get involved! Our Chamber events are an excellent way to meet other business owners, learn about valuable resources, and find inspiration for your small business. And remember, the SBDC's services are available to all businesses, not just Chamber members. Their consultants and training programs are designed to support you at every stage, whether you're just starting out or looking to grow. We encourage you to take advantage of the resources offered by both the Walton County Chamber of Commerce and the SBDC. Together, we can create a thriving business community that supports each other's growth and success.

Connect with Us Today

Ready to take the next step? Contact your local SBDC office to schedule an appointment. Meet with a consultant, develop an action plan, and start working toward your business goals with expert guidance. For more information, visit the SBDC website or reach out to the Walton County Chamber of Commerce to learn more about upcoming events and how you can get involved. Let's work together to build a stronger business community in Walton County.

If you're not already a Chamber member, get in touch to learn how to kickstart your membership, attend our next luncheon, and connect with the Chamber to unlock valuable resources for your business. Whether you're looking to network or grow your business, the Chamber and the SBDC are here to help you succeed.