UWA's Small Business Hub Moves to Wallace Hall, Continues to Empower Local Entrepreneurs

The University of West Alabama's Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has moved to Wallace Hall. Despite the new location, its goal to support local entrepreneurs continues. The SBDC offers free consulting and educational programs to individuals in Choctaw, Clarke, Marengo, Sumter, and Wilcox counties. These services are crucial for addressing the economic challenges in Alabama's rural western region.

Donald Mills has led the SBDC since 2007, and under his leadership, the center has joined the Alabama Small Business Development Center Network (ASBDC). This connection enhances the support the SBDC can provide by tapping into a statewide network of business experts. Mills is positive about the move to Wallace Hall, expecting it to raise the center's profile in Livingston and at the university.

The SBDC has a history of helping businesses overcome difficulties. For example, they helped a women-owned shop that sells hats, gloves, and accessories to develop an online store. This move allowed the business to operate a physical store part-time while running a 24/7 online store.

Securing funding is a major challenge for many small business owners in the area. The SBDC often helps with questions about obtaining grants, as many clients struggle to secure traditional loans. Business Advisor Sarah Rose is key in assisting clients to explore various funding options, including grants from entities like the Alabama Power Company Foundation and Lowes.

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