Chamber hosting resource office for free consultations
Florida Gulf Coast University’s Florida Small Business Center (SBDC) business consultant Suzanne Specht has a resource office set up at the SanCap Chamber’s Visitor Center to offer no-cost expert services and advice by appointment to island small business owners.
The one-hour appointments take place on the second Friday of each month between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Among its services, the SBDC can assist with the application process for the disaster recovery loan program available through Community Foundation of the Islands (CFI), in partnership with the chamber and program staffer Alex Bustamante. Six loans up to $10,000 each remain available. The SBDC will help facilitate distribution of those funds.
Other services span the realm of business skill, development and management needs, including capital packaging, business plan development, market research, disaster planning, AI and technology consulting, training and workshops, trends and analysis, economic and market forecasts, government contracting assistance, and growth/expansion services.
Specht is a nationally recognized and seasoned small-business consultant with over 27 years of experience. During her time with the SBD, she has advised more than 3,600 entrepreneurs, contributing to over $64 million in capital formation and the launch of 218 businesses. Specht specializes in SBA and disaster loan packaging, financial planning and strategic business development. Her leadership has been instrumental in administering recovery programs during crises like Hurricanes Ian, Milton and Irma and the COVID pandemic.
To schedule an appointment, visit floridasbdc.org/request-for-consulting and request consulting services with Specht. People can also contract her directly via email at sspect@fgcu.edu.
The Visitor Center is at 1159 Causeway Blvd., Sanibel.