Small Business Development Center at UNF

09/18/2026

✨Success Story ✨

"The SBDC consultant's expertise was evident as he quickly assisted in crafting a strategic 5-year business plan, which prepared the company for successful loan approval. The SBDC support was instrumental in navigating the complexities of financial planning and connecting with key financial partners."

— Anita Adams owner of The Garden Spot of the Sunshine State

Check out The Garden Spot at: https://www.gardenspotocala.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawURC2dwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMWcyVVhpNnZwN0kzQjM2NUtzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeHOp_aQ0gy-ndn3b7soWMYfmvAC7ATyTLWk6CIGOnwSePtEXIa-jaB89vxgk_aem_8FnEcgrlyx28qoQS74zI7A

Watch their full success story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxkFIpm-HE4

09/16/2026

The Federal Reserve has launched the Small Business Credit Survey, which provides critical information that service providers, policymakers, and lenders use to improve programs for small business owners. The survey is open to all for-profit businesses with fewer than 500 employees.

The survey deadline is November 13, 2026.

To take the survey, visit:
https://fedreserveboard.gov1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_38k9xZy8ayEERue?orgID=SBDC_FL

09/15/2026

Clay County’s small business community stays active, and so does our team. We continue partnering with local organizations to bring practical workshops and guidance to entrepreneurs throughout the county. We’re here to support Clay County business owners with the tools and insight they need to move forward with confidence.

Ready to take your business to the next level? Connect with the Florida SBDC at UNF for no‑cost, confidential consulting and access guidance designed to help your business grow. https://www.unf.edu/sbdc/business-consulting.html

09/14/2026

Looking to secure funding for your business?

Join us on October 8th at 9 AM for the Jax Lender Event – Money Moves: Unlock Funding Opportunities. Connect with local lenders, explore funding options, and gain real insights into what lenders are looking for.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Register at: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/jax-lender-event-money-moves-unlock-funding-opportunities-5a1eVOGD1OU/overview

Presented by Bank OZK

09/11/2026

✨Success Story ✨

“I highly recommend the SBDC to other business owners, praising the wealth of resources, knowledge, and tools available through the consultants. Our journey from Navy retirees to successful restaurant owners showcases the impact of lifelong learning and the importance of leveraging local resources to achieve entrepreneurial success.”

— Foday Sambolah, owner of Th3 Central BBQ +

Check out Th3 Central BBQ at: https://th3central.com/

Read their full success story here: https://www.unf.edu/sbdc/success-stories/Th3_Central_BBQ.html

09/10/2026

Meet Rick Paul!

Here at the SBDC at UNF, Rick is our Small Business Consultant serving Putnam County.

His Specialties: Ideation, business planning and management, marketing, financial forecasting, and competitive strategies.

If you are in need of his expertise, Rick works closely with entrepreneurs throughout Putnam County. He helps business owners strengthen their ideas, build solid business plans, understand funding options, forecast sales, and develop strategies that support long-term growth and stability.

Watch his full spotlight here:

I joined the Florida SBDC because...I've spent my whole career hel...

09/09/2026

Our team was thrilled to attend the 2026 Small Business Success Summit presented by the Florida SBDC Network

This annual event brought together entrepreneurs, partners, and SBDC teams from across Florida for learning, connection, and practical strategies to support small business growth.

We’re proud to share several Florida SBDC at UNF highlights from this year’s Summit:

Capital Access Recognition
Marge Cirillo, Senior Business Consultant, received the Capital Access Lifetime Achievement Award for facilitating more than $75 million in access to capital.

Years of Service Awards
20 Years: Ali Stephens, Robin Hill, Mike Chung
10 Years: Jodi Henson
5 Years: Rick Paul

Lifetime Achievement Recognition
Dr. Phil Geist was honored for more than 32 years of service and a career impact of more than $75 million in access to capital.

We appreciate our team, partners, and clients who represented the Florida SBDC at UNF — your commitment continues to strengthen small businesses across Northeast Florida.

09/04/2026

Florida SBDC at UNF consultants Jesi Young and Wilson Richardson recently attended 1 Million Cups Ocala , connecting with entrepreneurs and community partners dedicated to growing Marion County’s business community.

By building local relationships and increasing awareness of available resources, we help Marion County small businesses access the guidance and support they need to thrive and contribute to the region’s economic success.

09/03/2026

Please join us in congratulating Dennis Chan !

From client to champion, Dennis Chan, owner of Blue Bamboo, has been an incredible partner to the Florida SBDC at UNF for more than a decade. We're proud to celebrate his recognition as the Regional and State Volunteer of the Year for his outstanding service, advocacy, and commitment to helping small businesses thrive. Congratulations, Dennis!

09/02/2026

The month of September is packed with exciting events designed to help small business owners excel!

Event topics will include understanding government contracting opportunities, learning how to start a business, building a strong foundation for new entrepreneurs, accessing local business and community resources, and strengthening your marketing to support long‑term growth.

Visit our webpage to register! https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/?keywords=Florida%20SBDC%20at%20UNF