Gulfport Mayor Billy Hewes speaks in May at an open house for the Mississippi Small Business Development Center’s resource center on the Gulf Coast. Photo by Thomas Graning/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services
OXFORD, Miss. – The Mississippi Small Business Development Center, headquartered at the University of Mississippi, has a part-time business counselor in the offices of the city of Gulfport to provide support and training for business owners and aspiring owners.
Business counselors from the Gulf Coast and University of Southern Mississippi SBDC offices will staff the new office on a rotating schedule and will be available two days a week between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. The office is in the Hardy Building at 1410 24th St.
“Small business is our passion, and the backbone of Mississippi’s economy,” said Sharon Nichols, state director of the Mississippi SBDC. “We look forward to a long and productive relationship with Gulfport and its growing business community.”
The Mississippi SBDC provides connection, education and guidance for business owners and at every stage of their entrepreneurship journey. The organization has more than 20 centers and sites located strategically throughout the state and staffed with experienced business counselors who provide workshops, one-on-one counseling and technical support.
“The city of Gulfport’s partnership with the Mississippi Small Business Development Center will give our business owners, particularly new entrepreneurs, the support they will need to be successful,” Mayor Billy Hewes said. “Having access to business counselors and workshops will provide the opportunity to build their business on a strong foundation.”
To set up an appointment at the Gulfport location, call 228-868-5790. All services provided by the Mississippi SBDC are no cost.
The Mississippi Small Business Development is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration through the University of Mississippi.