The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at Henderson State University was honored for excellence and innovation May 10 at the Arkansas Small Business Awards luncheon.
Hosted by the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce, the luncheon recognized the U.S. Small Business Administration’s annual award winners, including the Arkansas Small Business Persons of the Year.
“Henderson State’s ASBTDC continues to do a remarkable job in assisting entrepreneurs in every aspect of business creation, management, and operations,” said Edward Haddock, SBA Arkansas District director. “We are proud of the growth they have attained and it was our honor to have presented them this year’s Arkansas Small Business Development Center of the Year Award.”
Part of the ASBTDC network since it began, the Henderson center serves 10 counties in southwest and south central Arkansas and has grown from a one-person office to a staff of four.
“We appreciate the SBA for acknowledging Henderson’s ASBTDC for this award. It is an honor to work with SBA and Henderson State University, our funding partners,” said Leah Hasley, center director. “The tremendous support we receive from our Lead Center, financial institutions, and community partners allows us to provide comprehensive small business services to Arkansas entrepreneurs. We value our relationships and greatly appreciate this recognition.”
Criteria for the honor included meeting or exceeding performance milestones; helping small businesses, including startups, increase revenues and create/retain jobs through innovative programs and events; and supporting local and regional small business and economic development by advancing opportunities for entrepreneurial development and educating the community about SBA programs and services.
“The team at Henderson State University ASBTDC exemplifies high performance and innovation in their service to small businesses,” said Laura Fine, ASBTDC state director. “They are creative and collaborative in their approach. The office excels at cultivating collaborative relationships with lending institutions, economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, and municipalities that lead to new events and opportunities for prospective and current small business owners.”