News Releases
News from
Oregon Small Business Development Center Network
Contact: Lisa C. Wald, (541) 463-5250
for release October 1, 2003
Oregon Small Business Development Center Network receives Qwest
Foundation awards grant
EUGENE - The Oregon Small Business Development Center Network, a statewide
educational program devoted to small business development and training,
announced today that it has received a $6,000 grant from the Qwest Foundation
to fund training for leaders of small businesses.
The grant funds will be used to create and implement an interactive, on-line business planning course targeted at small businesses called "Your Business Plan". The OSBDCN assists over 10,000 business owners every year. Each year, there is increased demand for assistance with business planning. The on-line course will help meet the increased demand. The OSBDCN has worked closely with Qwest for many years to develop and deliver valuable new programs to help small businesses succeed.
"The 'Your Business Plan' online course was born of a desire to give all small business owners and entrepreneurs the best instruction and the support they need to realize their potential," said William D. Carter, Ph.D., State Director of the OSBDCN. "I am pleased that the Qwest Foundation is helping to make this vision a reality in Oregon."
"Qwest's commitment to the Spirit of Service goes beyond serving customers at the office," said Judy Peppler Qwest President for Oregon. "Through the Qwest Foundation, we are able to enrich the lives of customers and the communities we serve. We are honored to partner with the Oregon Small Business Development Center Network to support their work in helping small business succeed and provide lasting value for the future."
"Building strong businesses is critical to future of our state," said Marty Brantley director of the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department. "The Qwest Foundation Grant will allow us to do just that, by working with small business owners and entrepreneurs to give them the tools they need to succeed in the business world."
The primary author of "Your Business Plan" is Dennis Sargent. He is the Director of Training and Business Development at Linn-Benton Community College in Oregon.
The Oregon Small Business Development Network was established by the Oregon Legislature in 1983. Twenty centers located at community colleges and state universities provide training and free, confidential advising to Oregon's small business owners and entrepreneurs. For more information on the Oregon SBDCs or "Your Business Plan", please call 541-463-5250.
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