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Maryland Small Business Development Center, Southern Region

Name: Maryland Small Business Development Center, Southern Region
Address: 8730 Mitchell Road, CE139, La Plata, MD, 20646, US
Telephone: +13019347583

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Maryland Small Business Development Center, Southern Region

Business events and news . . . Business consulting and educational opportunities . . . Women's Business events . . . The Network, a partnership between the U.S.

Since 1988, the seasoned staff of the Maryland Small Business Development Center (MDSBDC) Network has provided sound advice, counseling and support to entrepreneurs and small to mid-size businesses across the state. Small Business Administration and the University of Maryland College Park, links private enterprise, government, higher education and local economic development organizations to provid

e management, training and technical assistance to Maryland’s small businesses. As part of a national SBDC Network, the MDSBDC has rapid access to a number of information resources to deliver assistance that strengthens businesses, thereby contributing to the growth of local, state and national economies.

06/04/2026

Final Session in Our SBA Lending Series — Don’t Miss It!
We’re wrapping up our 3‑part SBA Lending Options series in Calvert County!

📍 Calvert Library – Twin Beaches Branch
4100 5th Street
North Beach, MD 20714

🗓 Tuesday, June 9
⏰ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Meet with 7(a), 504, and Microlenders and learn which SBA loan program best supports your small business goals. Ideal for new entrepreneurs, growing businesses, and anyone exploring financing options.

✨ This is the final event in the series!
If you missed the earlier sessions, this is your chance to jump in. Stay tuned to this page for future workshops and resources.

06/01/2026

🌐 Southern Region SBDC Leadership Spotlight: Director, Southern Region James Vasquez 🌐

James Vasquez, Director of the Maryland Small Business Development Center – Southern Region, is an accomplished entrepreneur and business consultant with more than 20 years of industry expertise.
Originally from New York, James recently relocated to Southern Maryland, bringing with him a powerful blend of experience in start‑ups, franchises, manufacturing, lead generation, acquisitions, operations, business development, and marketing across both traditional and digital platforms.

His diverse background includes supporting business owners in manufacturing, professional services, wellness and fitness, and digital product development—helping them build, scale, and sustain long‑term success. With a deep understanding of multiple business models, James is widely recognized as a seasoned strategist committed to driving growth and innovation in today’s competitive landscape.

James is also known for his expertise in AI‑driven business strategy. Through his program Proper Prompting for Profits, he demonstrates how smart, strategic prompting can transform AI tools into powerful marketing engines that fuel growth, enhance customer engagement, and support data‑driven decision‑making.

💡 Endorsed by Industry Icons:
“James has a charismatic, persuasive personality that motivates anyone he works with to perform at optimal levels.”
— Kevin Harrington, Original Shark from Shark Tank

“An eloquent leader who knows how to engage, inspire, and educate.”
— Omar Periu, Motivational Speaker & Bestselling Author

James is innovative, forward‑thinking, and meticulous, ensuring not only that the numbers are right, but that entrepreneurs are fully prepared for the next step in their business journey. He asks the tough questions that others avoid, because he knows those answers are essential for real progress.

Through his experience, drive, and leadership, James is taking the Southern Region SBDC to new heights year after year.

To learn more about James’s entrepreneurial journey, leadership philosophy, and national recognition, you can explore his full feature profile on ValiantCEO:
🔗 https://valiantceo.com/james-vasquez/

You can also connect with him professionally on LinkedIn to follow his insights, updates, and thought leadership:
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jvasquez-marketing/

05/28/2026

🌐 Southern Region SBDC Leadership Spotlight: William "Bill" Hitte 🌐

For more than 24 years, Bill Hitte has been a driving force behind small business success in Southern Maryland. As a Senior Business Consultant with the Small Business Development Center, backed by 45+ years of small business lending experience.

Bill brings unmatched expertise, steady guidance, and a “let’s get it done” approach that makes every entrepreneur feel supported.

In May, Bill was recognized for joining the 2025 One-Million-Dollar Club and earning the most client referrals to APEX, reflecting his dedication to helping businesses secure the resources they need to grow.

Bill spent the week visiting standout Charles County businesses including ABC Fitness Connection and Strong Fitness in Waldorf. The celebration wrapped up with a packed Networking Mixer at The Space, hosted with the Charles County Chamber of Commerce and attended by Commissioner President Reuben Collins. It was a powerful reminder of how strong and vibrant our business community truly is.

📚 Bill Takes His Expertise to the Library
Bill doesn’t just advise — he teaches, motivates, and empowers. Next, he’s bringing his lending expertise directly to the community with an upcoming workshop:

SBA Lending Options: Which Loan Program Is Best for My Small Business?
Learn the features and benefits of 7(a), 504, and Microloan programs and meet directly with lenders.

Tuesday, June 9
10 AM – 12 PM
Calvert Library – Twin Beaches Branch
4100 5th Street, North Beach, MD 20714
RSVP: [email protected]

Perfect for anyone starting a business, expanding, or exploring financing options.

Bill is not just a consultant, he’s a mentor, a motivator, and a champion for small business success across Southern Maryland. We’re proud to spotlight his leadership and the impact he continues to make every day.

🔗 Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-hitte-14bb6662/

05/25/2026

🌐 Southern Region SBDC Leadership Spotlight: Tammy L.S. Wright 🌐

We are excited to highlight Tammy L. S. Wright, a standout Pre‑Venture & Start‑Up Consultant with the Maryland SBDC.

A retired officer with 20+ years of honorable service, Tammy L. S. Wright combines strategic insight with strong community engagement as she guides pre‑venture and early‑stage entrepreneurs across Southern Maryland. She's earned a bachelor's degree and two Master of Science Degrees. Has held several director and leadership positions throughout her decorated career.

As the co‑founder and co‑owner of ABC Fitness Connection in Waldorf, MD, she understands firsthand the realities of business ownership and uses that insight to better serve the entrepreneurs she supports.

Her commitment to community extends beyond consulting. During the College of Southern Maryland Day of Service, Tammy spent time at Spring Dell, working directly with adults in the program, reflecting her dedication to service, inclusion, and meaningful engagement.

Tammy partnered with Charles County Economic Development and Charles County Public Schools for Small Business Week visits to:

Blended Bakery – Indian Head, MD
https://conta.cc/49f7KaY

Raw Juice Market – White Plains, MD
https://conta.cc/4f0TMx0

Each visit showcased Tammy’s hands‑on support and her passion for uplifting local entrepreneurs.

Learn more: about ABC Fitness Connection: https://www.abcfitconnect.com/

05/22/2026

🌐 Southern Region SBDC Leadership Spotlight: Katrina M. Briscoe 🌐

We are proud to spotlight Katrina M. Briscoe, one of the Southern Region SBDC’s top‑performing consultants. Recognized as Top Two in the Region on her work with clients, she brings hands‑on leadership, strategic expertise, and genuine enthusiasm to every client she supports. 🌟

Katrina is a certified executive coach, corporate trainer, and content marketing strategist with deep experience supporting schools, small businesses, and corporations.

With an MBA, a BS in Marketing from the University of Maryland, and multiple certifications, she has appeared on WUSA 9 and developed training programs for schools and colleges. She is a member of NAFE, AMA, and the UMD Alumni Association.

During Business Appreciation Week, Katrina brought her signature energy and relationship‑driven approach to client visits across Southern Maryland—including:

Dragonfly Crystal Store – Dunkirk, MD
The Med Beauty – Dunkirk, MD
Reliable Marine – Solomons Island
Big Kahuna Cruises – Solomons Island
Patuxent Transportation – Southern Maryland
Creations Hair Salon – Dunkirk, MD (Business Anniversary)

Her multi‑day tour showcased not only the diversity of local businesses but also the authentic enthusiasm and support she brings to every client she serves. Katrina is a light in her own right—her personality, professionalism, and passion help businesses thrive. 💼✨

Katrina’s leadership continues to elevate our region, strengthen our business ecosystem, and inspire the entrepreneurs she supports every day.

Connect with Katrina on LinkedIn to stay engaged with her work: https://bit.ly/4tMkSvC

05/20/2026

🌐 Southern Region SBDC Leadership Spotlight: Dr. Frank Clinton 🌐

Let’s celebrate Dr. Frank Clinton, a true champion for small businesses in Southern Maryland! He’s received Joe Mann’s Black Wall Street Award, which recognizes leaders who uplift small businesses and strengthen economic opportunity. He also earned the SBDC Impact Award for leading the region in client success.

Dr. Clinton has guided hundreds of entrepreneurs in operations, finance, and strategic growth—saving clients thousands, securing major grants, and building stronger organizations through leadership training. He also supports the FlightPath Program, a St. Mary’s initiative that connects local entrepreneurs with resources, training, and industry expertise across aviation, autonomous systems, agriculture, aquaculture, and tourism.

Author, consultant, educator, and community builder—Dr. Clinton continues to make a powerful impact. We’re proud to have him on our SBDC Southern Region team!

We’re also proud to share that St. Mary’s County Small Business Month was officially recognized with a proclamation presented to Dennis Point–Pat’s Seafood by the St. Mary’s County Commissioners, representing the Department of Economic Development. A well‑deserved spotlight on a standout local business.

📘Learn more about St. Mary's Flight Path
https://bit.ly/4nG4N9n

St. Mary’s FlightPath events here
https://bit.ly/4wAImq1

📚The Ugly Truth – Book by Dr. Frank Clinton
https://bit.ly/3Rc223w

Connect with Dr. Frank Clinton on LinkedIn
https://bit.ly/4fxzYBA

05/15/2026

🎓
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2026!

From all of us in small business development, we’re cheering you on as you step into your next chapter.

Your creativity, resilience, and drive are exactly what the future of entrepreneurship needs. Keep dreaming big — the world is ready for your ideas.

Address

8730 Mitchell Road, CE139
La Plata, MD
20646

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
Friday	8am - 5pm

Telephone

+13019347583

Website

http://www.sbdchelp.com/

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