Florida SBDC is Helping Businesses Grow

By: Shelia Mader

The Republican Party’s guest speaker for their June meeting was Chip Wells, Associate Director of the Florida SBDC (Florida Small Business Development Center).

From starting a small business to selling one, the Florida SBDC is helping entrepreneurs succeed every step of the way. In a recent interview, Chip Wells, Associate Director of the Florida SBDC, shared insights into the wide range of services the organization offers to support local businesses across a 10-county region.

“Our mission is to help small businesses start, grow, and thrive,” Wells said. “And we do it all at no cost to the business owner.”

The SBDC offers confidential consulting to new and existing businesses in areas like marketing strategy, financial planning, and capital access. “We assist with business plans and financial projections,” Wells explained. “That’s key for entrepreneurs seeking funding or just trying to make smart growth decisions.”

Wells emphasized the importance of sustainable growth, pointing out that expanding too quickly without proper planning can be risky. “We help businesses analyze the numbers so their growth is profitable, not problematic,” he said.

Another vital service the SBDC provides is certified business valuation. “If you’re thinking of buying or selling a business, you need to know what it’s really worth,” Wells said. A review of tax returns and thorough market research is crucial for businesses to be successful.”

The SBDC also assists businesses in tapping into government contracting opportunities, an area that many find overwhelming. “We help with registrations, certifications, and understanding what it takes to compete for federal, state, or local contracts,” Wells noted.

In addition to consulting, the SBDC offers workshops on topics such as marketing, accessing capital, and disaster preparedness. “We host training sessions to help businesses stay resilient, especially during hurricane season,” Wells said. “We also help point them toward resources like disaster loans.”

Serving a broad 10-county region, including the Central Time Zone and Gulf County—the SBDC has consultants based in Marianna, Panama City, Fort Walton, Crestview, and Pensacola. “We meet clients where they are,” Wells said. “Whether it’s face-to-face or via Zoom, we’re here to help.”

For entrepreneurs across the Florida Panhandle, the Florida SBDC is more than just a resource, it’s a partner in success.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit sbdc.uwf.edu.