Robert Bahn of Jonesboro was honored as a 2019 State Star at the 39th Annual America’s SBDC Annual Conference in Long Beach, Calif., Sept. 3-6.
Bahn is a business consultant at the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at Arkansas State University. With the center since 2009, he assists potential and current small business owners with business planning, market research, and funding.
The State Star award, the highest accolade for SBDC employees, recognizes exemplary performers who display strong commitment to small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Annually, one person from every state and U.S. territory is selected for the award. Winners were recognized during a special ceremony and reception aboard the Queen Mary, Sept. 3.
“Robert is truly dedicated to helping entrepreneurs in northeast Arkansas start and grow small businesses. He brings a wealth of knowledge and open mind to every project and is tireless in going the extra mile for his clients, who are extremely appreciative of his assistance,” said Laura Fine, ASBTDC state director (pictured with Bahn). “Through his work in the community and on campus, Robert is a passionate advocate for entrepreneurship. ASBTDC is fortunate to have Robert as part of our team.”
With about 1,000 centers across the nation, America’s Small Business Development Center network is a partnership uniting private enterprise, government, higher education and local nonprofit economic development organizations. It is the U.S. Small Business Administration’s largest partnership program, providing management and technical assistance to help Americans start, run and grow their own businesses.