Entrepreneurship Everywhere Policy/Advocacy/Information Organizations Use this quick alpha locator... [ A ] [ C ] [ E ] [ F ] [ I ] [ K ] [ N ] [ S ] [ U ] [ V ] [ W ] [ Y ] American Association of Home Based Businesses American Association of Home Based Businesses P.O. Box 10023, Rockville, MD 20849 Fax: 301-963-7042 Email: aahbb@crosslink.net Focus: Support for home-based businesses Abstract: The American Association of Home-Based Businesses, Inc. (AAHBB) is a national, non-profit organization formed to support and advocate for home-based businesses. AAHBB's mission is to support, promote and encourage businesses in the home. The association was formed in September 1991 to provide networking, support, and legislative monitoring for home-based businesses in the Washington, DC area. Interest quickly spread outside the area and the association went national in May 1994. We are a rapidly growing legion of thriving businesses; some well established, some just starting. A wide variety of products and services are represented by the membership of AAHBB such as: accountants, contractors, writers, lawyers, crafters, desktop publishers, consultants, artists, caterers, insurance brokers, financial planners, and hundreds of other professionals and occupations. They are all home-based; some have employees, but most do not. AAHBB is a 501(c ) (6) nonprofit membership organization headquartered in a home office in Rockville, MD with a Board of Directors made up of home-based business owners. Members must be currently operating a full- or part-time home-based business and must fill out the information requested on the application page. Cost-saving benefits include: Ability to apply for merchant banking services at the best possible rates with the most chance of being accepted. Health insurance information and policies available through our partnership with Digital Insurance. Discounts on long-distance services for your business and home. Membership in Commercial Travelers Association where you are guaranteed to receive the lowest airfare as well as other travel-related discounts. Discounts on books and tapes that provide the information you need to successfully run your home-based business. Discounts on Web Services and Internet E-Mail to better provide an on-line image for your home-based business. T.C.B. (Taking Care of Business) Tip Sheets on numerous subjects providing the information you need to know. A Standards of Conduct certificate for framing to display in your home office. Newsletter articles posted regularly on this site to keep you up-to-date. Chat rooms where you can post questions, share information, and chat with others who are balancing work and family under the same roof. Forums where you can discuss with other home-based business owners issues that affect you and your business. Beverley Williams is the founder of AAHBB and currently serves as President of the Board. She is experienced in owning and operating home-based businesses. Over the years, she has established a well-earned international reputation as an authority and enthusiastic spokesperson on home-based business issues. She writes articles for books and periodicals, regularly a guest on a radio program, and speaks frequently at conferences and meetings. Association of Small Business Development Centers (ASBDC) Woodrow C. McCutchen, President/CEO Association of Small Business Development Centers 8990 Burke Lake Road Burke, VA 22015 703-764-9850 Fax: 703-764-1234 Email: info@asbdc-us.org Web site: www.asbdc-us.org Focus: Professional association of leaders of small business development centers, providing assistance to small businesses in the United States. Abstract: Over 500,000 business are assisted by ASBDC member programs on an annual basis. A sizeable number of them are in the dynamic start-up mode, while a majority are existing businesses searching for stability of planning for growth. We invite interested national corporations and government officials to join us as we work to help small business take the lead into the twenty-first century. Over 1,000 Small Business Development Centers serve more than 500,000 small business annually. To put the ASBDC network to work for your small business, contact the state office nearest you. The mission of the Association of Small Business Development Centers is to represent the collective interest of our members by promoting, informing, supporting, and continuously improving the SBDC network, which delivers nationwide educational assistance to strengthen small/medium business management, thereby contributing to the growth of local, state, and national economies. Small business is the engine of economic growth. There are currently over 22 million small businesses in America—and the number is growing rapidly, with over 800,000 started last year alone. Small business accounts for 99 percent of all U.S. businesses. It employs 53 percent of the private workforce and contributes over half of the nation's private gross domestic product. The Association of Small Business Development Centers is a partnership program uniting private enterprise, government, higher education, and local nonprofit economic development organizations. We are dedicated to the sound development of small business throughout America. Founded in 1979, the ASBDC provides a vehicle for continuous improvement of the Small Business Development Center program; exchange of information among members regarding objectives, methods, and results in business management; and technical assistance and advocacy of America's small business community. The annual conference is a professional education program designed for SBDC program staff, counselors, trainers, center directors, and management personnel. Over 100 workshop/roundtable programs are offered at this year's fall conference in Dallas. Learn practical techniques to help your SBDC program be more effective. Gain exposure to the very latest thinking and the most advanced tools you need to help small business entrepreneurs build their businesses in an increasingly complex marketplace. Aspen Institute Karen Doyle The Aspen Institute One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 700 Washington, DC 20036 202-736-5807 Fax: 202-467-0790 Email: karen.doyle@aspeninstitute.org Web site: http://www.aspeninstitute.org Abstract: The Aspen Institute is an international nonprofit educational institution dedicated to enhancing the quality of leadership through informed dialogue. It convenes men and women who represent diverse viewpoints and backgrounds from business, labor, government, the professions, the arts, and the nonprofit sector to relate timeless ideas and values to the foremost challenges facing societies, organizations, and individuals. The purpose of their Web page is to share these discussions. Association for Enterprise Opportunity Bill Edwards, Executive Director 1601 North Kent Street, Suite 1101 Arlington, VA 22209 703-841-7760 Fax: 703-841-7748 Email: Zmaeo@aol.com Web site: www.microenterpriseworks.org Focus:Microenterprise development Geographic Area: National Products and Services: Services to members include training and technical assistance, policy and advocacy, and communications, as well as opportunities for networking and peer exchange. AEO holds one annual national conference, publishes a bimonthly newsletter, and maintains a comprehensive Web site. Age Level: Adults Key Partners: National, state, and local programs and organizations (both public and private sector) involved in microenterprise development; advocates; corporations/foundations. Abstract: The Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO) is the national association of organizations committed to microenterprise development. Founded in 1991, AEO provides its members with a forum, information, and a voice to promote enterprise opportunity for people and communities with limited access to economic resources. AEO also represents the U.S. microenterprise agenda in the international community. AEO operates with the following goals: to provide public policy advocacy, increase the awareness of the microenterprise strategy, and work to remove the barriers that impede low-income individuals from becoming self-employed; to provide training to members in the areas of credit/access to credit, training and technical assistance, access to market, and economic literacy and asset development; to provide opportunities for peer exchange so that members can learn from each other; to develop materials for the industry; and to work to expand the private and public sector funding base for programs. Membership in AEO is open to practitioners, individuals, advocates, public agencies, funders, and others who share in AEO's mission. Its members currently include a broad range of microenterprise programs as well as a multitude of other organizations including financial institutions, community economic development organizations, small business development centers, housing organizations, social service organizations, community action agencies, and others. Membership in AEO offers the following: Reduced registration fee at AEO’s annual conference, the premiere microenterprise development training conference in the country. Subscription to the AEO Exchange, the national publication that provides members with timely policy updates, current trends, calendar of events, job postings, and other critical news in the field of microenterprise. Opportunity to actively shape the U.S. microenterprise policy agenda, and design of funding and capacity building initiatives, through active involvement in program committees. Opportunity to increase the effectiveness of your microenterprise efforts by networking with colleagues across the country and participating in regular working groups. A voice in determining AEO's services and institutional direction by exercising member voting privileges at the annual membership meeting. One complimentary copy of the Directory of U.S. Microenterprise Programs published in collaboration with the Self-Employment Learning Project. Copy of AEO’s membership directory. Clearinghouse for Entrepreneurship Education (CELCEE) Mary Beth Dockendorf, Administrator A325G Moore Hall University of California at Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA 90095-1521 Email: celcee@ucla.edu Web site: www.celcee.edu Focus: Information on entrepreneurship at all levels of education Geographic Area: National Products and Services: Abstracts of information on entrepreneurship Age Level: All levels Key Partners: Kauffman Foundation Abstract: This database contains abstracts of materials on entrepreneurship education at all levels, and a collection of links to the Web pages of organizations dealing with entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship education. An ERIC adjunct, we are sponsored by the Kauffman Foundation. Our abstracts direct people to sources of entrepreneurial materials. Center for Women's Business Research Dr. Sharon G. Hadary, Executive Director Center for Women's Business Research 1411 K Street, NW, Suite 1350 Washington, DC 20005-3407 USA 202-638-3060 x13 Fax: 202-638-3064 Email: SHadary@womensbusinessresearch.org Email: info@womensbusinessresearch.org Web site: www.womensbusinessresearch.org Focus: Women entrepreneurs Abstract: Center for Women's Business Research, founded as the National Foundation for Women Business Owners, is the premier source of knowledge about women business owners and their enterprises worldwide. They provide original, groundbreaking research to document the economic and social contributions of women-owned firms, and consulting and public relations services to maximize the benefits of this knowledge. Corporations, government policy makers, educators, organizations, the media, and individuals rely on our leading-edge knowledge to strengthen their support of women business owners. Major Programs and Services include: Research - High-visibility research projects on ground breaking topics, as well as customized research for corporations to gain marketing intelligence. Consulting and Communications - Marketing consulting services on reaching the women-owned businesses market. Speeches and presentations on the growth, impact, and market opportunity of women-owned firms. Audio-visual and printed materials that feature our ground breaking research. Public relations services on using our research to maximize corporate visibility among women-owned businesses. Opportunities to sponsor and have corporate logos appear on the Center's popular Fact Cards. Seminars - The Executive Roundtable is a key benefit for the Center's corporate partners. This day-long seminar provides valuable information, insights, and case studies on working with and marketing to women business owners. Customized seminars on how to reach the growing women business owner market. Corporate Partnership Programs including the Corporate Circle, the Center for Women's Business Research's premier level of partnership, membership in the Corporate Circle provides America's leading corporations the broadest available range of strategic information and insight into women business owners and their enterprises, and significant visibility among women business owners. Resource and Educational Materials Statistical reports Survey research reports Quarterly newsletter Key Facts About Women-Owned Businesses Fact Cards Web site The Coleman Foundation, Inc. Michael Hennessy, President and CEO The Coleman Foundation, Inc. 651 W Washington Suite 306 Chicago, IL 60661 312-902-7120 Fax: 312-902-7124 Email: coleman@colemanfoundation.org Web site: http://www.colemanfoundation.org Focus:Entrepreneurship education; cancer research; and care, treatment, housing, and education for the handicapped, as well as a selected range of other educational programs. Geographic Area: Primarily Midwest. Selected programs have been developed on a national level, but they have been targeted at specific entrepreneurship education activities. Age Level: Programs have ranged from inner-city, elementary-age students to adults. Key Partners: Community-based nonprofit organizations, national/state/local organizations, and educational systems involved in entrepreneurship education and training. Abstract: Established in 1951 by the owners of Fannie May Candies, the Coleman Foundation proceeds from the liberating spirit of the entrepreneurial business ventures that created the wealth that has been placed into the Coleman Foundation trust. The directors further developed the foundation's role and expanded its vision to incorporate the funding of cancer research—a reality that touched the lives of the founders of the foundation. In the early 1980s, the directors furthered the original mission through selected programs that advocate self-employment through entrepreneurship awareness and education. Since 1981 the foundation has committed approximately $24 million to advance the concept of self-sufficiency through self-employment. In 1994 the Coleman Foundation established a five-year Entrepreneurship Awareness and Education Grant (EAEG) program initiative. The objective of the initial EAEG program was to provide seed funding to create new or expand existing programs that promoted the awareness of self-employment through entrepreneurship education. Initially, the board of directors committed $1,250,000 over five years to be awarded to 50 educational institutions. Because of the high quality of proposals submitted, the foundation granted more than $3,200,000 to 132 educational institutions in the United States. Due to the success of the initial five-year program and the ongoing progression of entrepreneurship education, the foundation changed the focus of this Entrepreneurship Awareness and Education Grant initiative. As entrepreneurship programs gain prominence and expand in collegiate schools of business, it is essential to increase awareness outside business schools. Commonly, non-business disciplines, such as medicine, law, and engineering, lead to business ownership opportunities. Thus, the intent of this initiative is to target those disciplines that might otherwise not be exposed to entrepreneurship education. The program also expands to include elementary and high school programs that introduce youth to the concept of self-employment as a viable career option. Priority will be given to practical programs that have developed community and/or institutional partnerships and can demonstrate both financial and programmatic sustainability. Proposals focusing on general business education, free enterprise, or economics do not qualify. The Coleman Foundation’s Entrepreneurship Awareness and Education Grant is a one-time award available to any university, college, community college, high school, or community-based organization establishing an entrepreneurship program, course, or community outreach program focusing on self-employment and/or business ownership. Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization Joanna Wolek Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO) 601 South Morgan Street Suite 709 (MC 244 Chicaqgo, IL 60607-7107 312-996-2670 Fax: 312-413-1265 Email: ceo@c-e-o.org Web site: www.c-e-o.org Focus: Organization of college and university collegiate entrepreneurship chapters Geographic area: Nationwide Products and Services: Newsletter, annual conference, online chat, web site with linkages to member web sites, and chapter awards. Age Level: Faculty advisor and college/university students Key Partners:Edward Lowe Foundation, University of Illinois at Chicago, The Coleman Foundation, and the Kauffman Foundation. Abstract: With chapters on campuses throughout the U.S. and the world, the Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization is one of the fastest growing student organizations. CEO offers excellent networking opportunities and serves as an informational resource for prospective entrepreneurs. The Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization is the premier global entrepreneurship network serving more than 500 colleges and universities. The Mission of CEO: The Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization informs, supports, and inspires college students to be entrepreneurial and seek opportunity through enterprise creation. Consortium for Entrepreneurship Education Cathy Ashmore, Executive Director 1601 W. Fifth Avenue, # 199 Columbus, OH 43212 614-486-6538 Fax: 419-791-8922 Email: Cashmore@entre-ed.org Web site: http://www.entre-ed.org Focus: Advocacy of entrepreneurship education as a lifelong learning process in the United States. Geographic Area: National membership Products and Services:Sharing of resources between members, newsletter, Web page for teachers, national conference, and advocacy activities. Age Level: Adults who are educational leaders Key Partners: State departments of education, and national/state/local organizations and agencies involved in entrepreneurship education and training. Abstract: The Consortium was created by the International Enterprise Academy at the Ohio State University in 1982 and has become a private, non-profit corporation since 1999. Annual membership is offered to state departments of education in the United States or nations outside the United States as the primary membership group. This active membership varies by year based on consortium priorities and budget constraints. The work of the consortium saves them duplication of effort and provides resources for teachers in their states. Associate membership is available to any other entrepreneurship advocate or educator and brings the same benefits of sharing input and output in meeting the needs of members in support of all types of entrepreneurship development. This includes local schools or school districts, universities or community colleges, business organizations, and nonprofit organizations interested in developing entrepreneurship education.. Benefits to members: All types of members participate in the annual conference—the Annual Entrepreneurship Education Forum—held each year in different locations in the United States. This is a chance to meet other educators and learn about their strategies for delivering programs and meeting the challenges of the educational systems. Each year we offer members multiple copies of our newsletter and various types of materials that they can share in their region. Members decide each year what types of materials are needed. The purpose of the consortium’s Web page is to provide information and resources "for teachers, instructors, program developers, and others who help students of all ages find their own entrepreneurial opportunities." Choices include articles about entrepreneurship education, links to other organizations, conference and workshop information, resource materials, model programs, learning activities, transparency masters, case studies, curriculum, and information about the consortium. We welcome new members interested in sharing ideas and supporting entrepreneurship education throughout the nation and the world. Corporation for Enterprise Development (CFED) Andrea Levere , President Corporation for Enterprise Development 777 North Capitol St., NE, Suite 410 Washington, DC 20002 202-408-9788 Fax: 202-408-9793 Email: cfed@cfed.org Web site: http://www.cfed.org Focus: Asset building and economic opportunity strategies in low-income and distressed communities Geographic Area: National Products and Services: Policy design, analysis, and advocacy. Demonstration and project management. Consulting, training, and technical assistance. Research and publications. Age Level: All Key Partners: Foundations, community-based organizations, nonprofit policy and service organizations, federal, financial institutions, state and local governmental agencies. Abstract: CFED currently organizes its activities into five main clusters: Individual Assets—leveraged savings accounts that enable low-income people to accumulate assets through home ownership, business start-up, and education. Programs include a 13-site individual development account (IDA) demonstration, an IDA learning network, a VISTA local capacity-building project, a financial literacy program, and advocacy for tax incentives and provisions for children’s savings accounts. Development Finance—mechanisms for improving local capital markets to improve the flow of capital to low-income and distressed communities. Programs include Counting on Local Capital, a survey and analysis of the use and effectiveness of revolving loan funds (RLFs) across the country, and initiatives to expand financial resources, strengthen portfolio performance, and enhance economic impact of RLF industry. Enterprise Development—policies and practices that encourage entrepreneurship through microenterprise, youth enterprise, and small business development. Programs include policy initiatives that remove barriers to microenterprise development, investments in the creation of state microenterprise networks, and support for the introduction of industry-wide performance standards in youth entrepreneurship. Economic Development—policies and practices that support quality, impact, and accountability in economic development. Programs include a clearinghouse to monitor the use and abuse of business incentives, enhanced federal requirements for strategic planning for economic development, a review of the impact on local development of international trade and investment agreements, and the production of the annual Development Report Card for the States. Sustainable Development—approaches to development that combine economic, community, and environmental perspectives for long-term sustainability. Programs include community-based strategic planning, creation of a common assets framework to enable communities to be stewards of natural resources, and promotion of the Sky Trust Initiative to derive public benefits from measures to control atmospheric pollution. EWeb Professor Jerome Katz, the Mary Louise Murray Endowed Professor of Management, Cook School of Business, Saint Louis University, 3674 Lindell Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA. 314-977-3864 (Country code 01) Fax: 314-977-3897 (Country code 01) Email: katzja@slu.edu Focus:Research-based web site Abstract: eWeb's Mission: eWeb exists to provide support to students of entrepreneurship of all ages - whether they own a business and want to do better, are just thinking about getting into business for themselves, or teach or consult to either. eWeb is sponsored by Jerome Katz, the Mary Louise Murray Endowed Professor of Management, Cook School of Business, Saint Louis University. Started in 1994 as a gopher (called EGOPHER), eWeb went online in late 1995. Since then, it has grown to be linked to over 700 sites worldwide, including the small business government support agencies of most of the English-speaking world. Although primarily targeted at the needs of entrepreneurship students and faculty, eWeb has won awards for its usefulness to entrepreneurs as well as entrepreneurship academics. Edward Lowe Foundation Mark Lange P.O. Box 8 Cassopolis, MI 49031-0008 800-232-LOWE 616-445-2648 Fax: 616-445-2648 Email: info@lowe.org Web site: http://edwardlowe.org Focus: Providing resources and information to emerging-growth entrepreneurs through the Web, publishing, conferences, and events. Geographic Area: National Products and Services: monthly newsletter, custom publishing products, extensive Web-based resources, conferences, and events Age Level: Emerging-growth entrepreneurs (defined as those with companies achieving revenue between $500,000 and $10 million and experiencing significant growth) Key Partners: National, state, and local organizations providing programs and services to emerging-growth entrepreneurs Abstract:The Edward Lowe Foundation, established in 1985 by Edward Lowe and his wife, Darlene (also a successful entrepreneur), champions the entrepreneurial spirit by encouraging second-stage business owners to get "PeerSpectives" on their businesses. To that end, we encourage business owners to get involved with entrepreneurial peer-networking organizations and to think about their businesses in new and creative ways. Web Services: The foundation provides services and peer-learning opportunities for entrepreneurs and organizations that serve this audience. Within the foundation's Web site, visitors find a wealth of resources and information pertinent for entrepreneurs at all stages of business. In addition to providing this Web site, we also work directly with organizations serving emerging-growth entrepreneurs by providing them with content that can be delivered via the Web. Publishing Services:The foundation's publishing arm plans to produce materials in a variety of media, including print and electronic, to serve entrepreneurs. The Peer-Spectives Newsletter is a monthly newsletter that strives to help the entrepreneur continue the growth of their business by providing useful and timely information, knowledge, and wisdom gleamed from those who have helped to pave the path to success—other entrepreneurs—through real-life experiences and lessons learned. The publishing division also creates materials in association with related organizations that support entrepreneurs at the national, regional, and local levels. Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Nancy Clark Entrepreneur of the Year Program Ernst and Young 121 San Jacinto St., Suite 1500 Dallas, TX 75201 1-800-755 AWARD Web site: www.ey.com/entrepreneur Abstract: The Entrepreneur of the Year awards program, founded and produced by Ernst and Young LLP, and nationally sponsored by USA Today, CNN, the Nasdaq-Amex Market Group, and the Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership, honors entrepreneurs whose ingenuity, hard work, and perseverance have created and sustained successful, growing business ventures. It began in 1986 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The success of the Entrepreneur of the Year program has lead to its expansion in the United States and internationally. Domestically, the program has grown from one award area in 1986 to 47 in 1999. International programs are hosted in Canada, France, Belgium, Germany, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Ireland, South Africa, Austria, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland, India, Brazil, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Bahamas, Barbados, and Trinidad. It is our goal to be in 30 countries by the year 2002. The number and quality of nominees has grown from 1,100 in 1987 to almost 4,200 in 1999. A nominee must be an owner/manager primarily responsible for the recent performance of a privately held company that is at least two years old. Founders of public companies are eligible, provided the founder is still active in top management. Anyone who has made an outstanding contribution to the entrepreneurial spirit through business or academic sectors, or anyone who has helped an entrepreneur become successful, is also eligible. Check your local office of Ernst and Young to determine the deadline date in April for nominations. Independent judging panels from each award area select seven to ten Entrepreneur of the Year award recipients in several categories, including: Emerging Real Estate Technology/Communication Young Service Software and Information Services Master Retail Internet Products and Services Supporter Construction Health Care/Life Sciences Manufacturing Consumer Products Wholesale/Distribution Following the judging process, finalists and award recipients are announced and presented with plaques and trophies at regional award banquets in June. The award recipients become lifetime members of the Entrepreneur of the Year Hall of Fame. The hall of fame, in conjunction with the Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership, conducts surveys of its members that are used as a basis for trend analysis, forecasting, and understanding entrepreneurs and their companies. USA Today and CNN provide extensive media coverage for the event. National Entrepreneur of the Year award recipients are selected by an independent national judging panel in several general and industry categories, as well as the overall National Entrepreneur of the Year. All regional Entrepreneur of the Year winners are eligible for the national honor. National finalists and award recipients in all categories will be announced at the Entrepreneur of the Year International Conference in mid November. All of the National Entrepreneur of the Year award recipients will be featured in a special section of USA Today, in the annual issue of Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year magazine, as well as on CNN and CNNfn. Past National Entrepreneur of the Year honorees have included Michael Dell, chairman and CEO of Dell Computer (1989), Robert Levine and Craig Benson, founders of Cabletron Systems, Inc. (1990), Cecil Ursprung, president of Reflexite Corporation (1991), Jerry Ehrlich, founder and CEO of Wabash National (1992), Robert E.M. Nourse, president and CEO of the Bombay Co. (1993), Robert Basham, Tim Gannon, and Chris Sullivan of Outback Steak House (1994), Allen Breed of Breed Technologies, Inc. (1995), Henry Yuen of Gemstar International (1996), Jack and Andy Taylor of Enterprise-Rent-a-Car (1997) and Edward Iacobucci of Citrix Systems, Inc. (1998). Supporter of Entrepreneurship In conjunction with the Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership in Kansas City, the Supporter of Entrepreneurship award was established to recognize outstanding leaders who have consistently contributed time, investment capital, encouragement and/or skill development to further the cause of entrepreneurship and who have demonstrated creativity and innovation in teaching or support of entrepreneurship. Supporters of Entrepreneurship have created an awareness of the benefits and challenges of entrepreneurship by directly participating in the entrepreneurial process and have emphasized a hands-on approach and methodology. A Supporter of Entrepreneurship may or may not have founded a company and may come from the corporate or academic sectors. The Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Principle-Centered Leadership A national award presented by the Franklin Covey Company, this award honors an individual who is known to be deeply principled in the manner in which he or she goes about achieving results in work and in life. This individual is trusted by others and is known by stakeholders, including the community, as being trustworthy. The individuals honored are known for their visionary, strategic leadership and for leaving a cultural legacy around principles, trust, and contribution. All regional award recipients are eligible for this national honor. Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City Community Affairs John A. Wood, Assistant Vice President and Community Affairs Officer Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City 925 Grand Boulevard Kansas City, MO 64198 816-881-2203 Fax: 816-881-2135 Email: john.a.wood@kc.frb.org Web site: http://www.kc.frb.org Focus: Promoting community economic development and fair and equal access to credit and capital. Geographic Area: Regional—all of Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Wyoming, the western third of Missouri, and the northern half of New Mexico. Products And Services: Printed resource materials; a Web site resource guide; workshops, seminars and policy-oriented conferences; and meeting facilitation assistance. Age Level: No age restrictions. Key Partners:Rural and urban community development stakeholders; e.g., state banking associations; community-based and nonprofit corporations and developers; philanthropic and private sector participants; and Indian Country, governmental and quasi-public entities. Abstract:Gaining access to financial and technical assistance resources and having the right information to understand what resources are available are two major challenges of entrepreneurs and developers. In conjunction, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City's Community Affairs Department works with diverse stakeholders and partners and offers an array of products and services to help entrepreneurs, developers, and communities become better aware of community development issues and of the available resources. Our programs and products include: Community Reinvestment: A semi-annual publication that provides in-depth analyses of community development issues and topics. Past topics have included lending in Indian Country; microenterprise lending; rural technology; small business development; and community development venture capital. Community Development Finance Workshops: These workshops use case studies to explore the many aspects of community economic development and cover a range of topics. Topics include identifying financing gaps, understanding the perspectives of each partner comprising the partnership, and identifying various public sector resources. Customers and Culture Workshops: Participants learn how cultural differences and perceptions can influence access to credit and in conducting business, and explore ways that the private sector can create and market products and services to a diverse customer base. 1stSource Community Development Resource Guide: 1stSource is a site hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City to help entrepreneurs and developers more quickly access information about public programs that provide assistance for affordable housing, business development, community infrastructure, and agribusiness projects. 1stSource can be accessed at www.1stSource.kc.frb.org. 4H Youth Workforce Preparation Program National 4-H Council 7100 Connecticut Avenue Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-961-2880 Web site: www.fourhcouncil.edu Web site: www.areyouintoit.com Mission: To be an uncommon youth development organization fostering innovation and shared learning for youth workers and young leaders. Vision: To realize the transformational power of youths and adults learning together to address challenges and opportunities critical to youth in their communities. Abstract: National 4-H Council is an uncommon youth development organization fostering innovation and shared learning for youth workers and young leaders. National 4-H Council partners with the Cooperative Extension System, communities, and other organizations to provide technical support and training, develop curriculum, create model programs, and promote positive youth development to fulfill its mission. National 4-H Council focuses on diverse groups of youths in all geographic locales. The organization is committed to a policy that all persons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, sex, religion, religious creed, ancestry or national origin, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, physical or mental handicap. More than 6.5 million youths are involved in 4-H programs annually. 4-H is part of the Cooperative Extension System, which conducts programs in 3,150 counties of the United States, the District of Columbia, and six territories. The Cooperative Extension System is a partnership between the United States Department of Agriculture, state land-grant universities, and local county governments. National 4-H Council also manages the National 4-H Conference Center, a full-service conference facility, and the National Supply Service, the authorized agent for items bearing the 4-H name and emblem. The 4-H name and emblem is protected under 18 U.S.C. 707. In 1999, National 4-H Council focused on its most important role, helping to build the field of youth development. To maximize our impact on youths, the council focused on those who work with youth within the Cooperative Extension System. The organization continues to identify innovative program initiatives that are succeeding in the field, direct resources to them, and publicize these stories to take success to significance. Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge Aaron Siegel, President and CEO Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge 1601 Valley Forge Road, PO Box 706 Valley Forge, PA 19482 610-933-8825 ext. 242 Email: asiegel@ffvf.org Web site: www.freedomsfoudation.com Focus: Recognizing educators for innovative ways in teaching free enterprise in the classroom. Geographic Area: Pennsylvania Abstract: Do you have an innovative classroom project? Do you know an educator who teaches out of the box? Could you or a teacher you know use $7,500? Check us out to learn how to submit projects for the 27th Annual Leavey Awards for Excellence in Private Enterprise Education. One of the basic strengths of America is its competitive private enterprise economic system. The unique concept of individual opportunity, incentive and reward provides Americans with the highest standard of living enjoyed by people of any nation in history. It is essential to the future of our freedoms and way of life that young people today develop an appreciation of and enthusiasm for this facet of American democracy. Recognizing this concept the Thomas and Dorothy Leavey Foundation permanently endowed an annual cash award program run by Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge to honor outstanding educators who excel in teaching the private enterprise system. An independent panel of selectors may recommend up to 20 awards of $7,500 each annually. In addition, it may recommend a special award of $15,000 for an unusually meritorious entry. See how to participate in this program, how to create an eye catching portfolio for submission and examples of past award winning programs. Institute for Educational Leadership, Inc. Barbara Kaufmann, Senior Associate Institute for Educational Leadership 1001 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 310 Washington, DC 20036 202-822-8405 Fax: 202-872-4050 Email: kaufmann@iel.org Web site: www.iel.org Focus: Assisting individuals and institutions in improving lives of children and youths Geographic Area: Nationwide Products and Services: Publications, technical assistance, leadership programs for education professionals Age Level: Adults involved in education and training enterprises Key Partners: School districts, school boards, community collaborative, leaders Abstract: The Institute for Educational Leadership, Inc. (IEL) helps institutions and individuals work together across boundaries to make better decisions and to take actions that improve the educational, social, and personal development of children and youths. IEL pursues its mission through five diverse, yet related, programs of work that stem from the organization's base in education, but reach into and across the many other policy settings which address outcomes for children and youths. IEL’s programs are connected and guided by three cross-cutting functions: Leadership— preparing and supporting people to lead change within and across institutions. Policy— providing diverse stakeholders with tools, information, and multiple perspectives to create and improve policy. Bridge Building— developing effective relationships among individuals, institutions, and sectors to meet the complex needs of children and families. IEL’s programs include: Developing Leaders. Leadership has long been a central commitment of IEL. Focused on supporting and informing current and emerging leaders and preparing them to work together, work effectively in multi-cultural/multi-sector environments, and work to energize and involve all stakeholders. Strengthening School-Family-Community Connections. IEL works to enable communities to achieve the conditions essential to strong school, family, and community relationships such as informed, involved and organized families; involved students; schools with high standards and strong curriculum and instruction; effective and connected community organizations; and neighborhood, faith-based, business, and civic organizations working in support of the schools. Connecting and Improving the Systems that Support Children and Youths. IEL works to improve policies and programs for children and families by connecting policies and policy makers across systems, levels of government, and ideologies. Our work provides incentives to strengthen the capacity of individuals and organizations to work across the boundaries of institutions, beliefs, and values. Governing. IEL focuses on increasing understanding of governing issues and stimulating the will to act; providing tools, strategies, and support for communities and school systems to work together; supporting school boards to strengthen their governing and leadership practices and capacities; tracking and analyzing the impact of new community governing arrangements; and helping communities deal with new governance structures. Improving Preparation for Work. IEL's work focuses on researching workforce and school-to-work practices and communicating the information to institutions and individuals; helping organizations develop and use skill standards to alter curricula and instructional practices; documenting how employers work with schools and training institutions; developing indicators of "best practice" programs; and identifying legislative and operating gaps, impediments, opportunities, and incentives. The Institute for Social Entrepreneurs Jerr Boschee, Founder and Executive Director The Institute for Social Entrepreneurs 9560 Dogwood Circle Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55347-3028 952-942-7715 Fax: 952-942-8059 Email: institute@orbis.net Web site: www.socialent.org Abstract: The Institute for Social Entrepreneurs provides education, training and consulting services for social entrepreneurs in the United States and abroad. The Institute for Social Entrepreneurs is a for-profit consulting company founded in 1999 by Jerr Boschee, who served for the previous eight years as President and CEO of The National Center for Social Entrepreneurs. Among the National Center's major accomplishments during Boschee's tenure were creation of The National Gathering for Social Entrepreneurs and The Affirmative Business Alliance of North America, the first two membership organizations for entrepreneurs in the field of social enterprise. Under his leadership, the National Center also mounted demonstration projects in nine cities that helped more than 60 nonprofits change their organizational cultures and begin adopting entrepreneurial strategies. Current programs include: The Executive Academy for Social Entrepreneurs® The Red River Academy for Social Entrepreneurs® The DuRand Institute® The Social Enterprise Fund® Seminars Workshops Entrepreneurial Learning Circles® The Institute for Social and Economic Development (ISED) Mel Essex, Branch Office Manager and Senior Business Consultant Jason J. Friedman, Director of Special Initiatives Economic Development Division The Institute for Social and Economic Development 100 1st Street, SW, Suite 200 Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 319-366-5100 Fax: 319-363-9555 Email: messex@ised.org Web site: www.ised.org Focus:Asset-based economic development, public policy research and evaluation, and consulting. Abstract:"The mission of the Institute of Social and Economic Development (ISED) is to strengthen the social and economic well-being of individuals and communities." The Institute for Social and Economic Development is a nonprofit organization that works to strengthen the economic and social well-being of individuals and communities around the world. We work to fulfill this mission by providing services to help public and private agencies effectively serve disadvantaged populations and to help low-income individuals develop their skills and access the resources they need to become economically self-sufficient. ISED offers services and assistance through three divisions: research and evaluation, economic development, and consulting. The combined skills, expertise, and experience of these three divisions and their team of committed professionals enables ISED to assist our clients to meet the unique needs and challenges they face. For instance, ISED offers the following services and assistance: Research and Evaluation: ISED provides public policy research services and evaluates social programs to determine the effectiveness of services and their impact upon client populations. ISED has conducted studies in the fields of welfare reform, workforce development, microenterprise development, and housing. Economic Development: ISED is perhaps best known for our work in providing small business development assistance to low-income individuals including welfare populations. We received a Presidential Award for Excellence in MicroEnterprise Development in 1999 for our work alleviating poverty through self-employment and business ownership. We also offer programs to assist low-income individuals with receiving job training and financial incentives for families to save income and purchase assets such as new homes, businesses, or further education and training. Consulting: Our consulting team works with our clients to address their challenges and needs in the areas of organizational development and governance, strategic planning, resource development, personnel management, program design and management technology, and evaluation. This assistance has included individual consultation (in person and via telephone), training workshops, site visits, management information system development and analysis, strategic planning, and organizational development assistance, among other services. We have provided assistance to agencies implementing programs in the fields of welfare reform; workforce development; criminal justice; child welfare; economic and microenterprise development; housing; and services targeted to welfare participants; refugees; and immigrants. International Council for Small Business The George Washington University School of Business, Department of Management 2201 G. Street NW, Funger 315 Washington, DC 20052 USA 1-202-994-0704 Fax: 1-202-994-4930 Email: ICSB@gwu.edu Web site: www.icsb.org ICSB serves as an umbrella organization that integrates the activities of diverse organizations and professionals who deal directly with small business. It creates and distributes new information on small business management and entrepreneurial development. Ideas drawn from government, education, and commerce are provided to the small business community through the efforts of Council members. ICSB actively stimulates research in new areas of inquiry through conferences, education/teaching exchanges, small business consulting/advising and global networking. Since the Council reinforces rather than duplicates the work of other organizations, it seeks to expand the information-exchange network by encouraging development of national and associate affiliates. Membership in ICSB offers the opportunity to develop a stronger understanding of International SME business practices and cultural trends throughout the world, increase your knowledge of the "who," "what," "where" and "how" of the entrepreneurship and small business field, and significantly accelerate your ability to form networks and alliances in your particular areas of interest. ICSB membership, either directly or through one of the affiliates, carries with it the following products and services. ICSB's quarterly newsletter. The Bulletin includes information about member activities, upcoming entrepreneurship conferences, issues relating to SME development in various parts of the world, and special interest topics. The Journal for Small Business Management is the world's oldest and most widely distributed professional/academic quarterly publication featuring refereed research papers on topics related to small business financing, the entrepreneurial process, growth strategies of SMEs, franchising, export practices, success and failure factors, and a myriad of other pertinent issues which can help guide the theory and practice of small business support. Annual World Conference: Held in June of each year, and hosted jointly with one of our affiliates. Past conferences have been held in cities such as Vienna, Washington, D.C., Strasbourg, Toronto, Sydney, Stockholm, San Francisco, Singapore and Naples. The conference draws 400 to 800 delegates from 40 to 50 countries. ICSB Membership Directory: Published annually (either in print or electronic form) and listing contact information from all members around the world. The directory will be available online soon. (restricted to ICSB members) The International Exchange Program provides the opportunity for institutional members to promote small business/entrepreneurship-related teaching and research opportunities within their institution. It also allows individual members to advertise their interest in scholarly/practitioner exchanges. ICSB is comprised of Affiliates, which represent the International Council for Small Business. The Affiliates represent different geographical regions of the world. To join the ICSB, you must contact the Affiliate representative of the area you reside for a membershp application. ICSB AFFILIATES Australia and New Zealand http://www.icsb.org/affiliates/seannz.html Brazil http://www.icsb.org/affiliates/brazil.html Canada http://www.icsb.org/affiliates/ccsbe.html Europe http://www.icsb.org/affiliates/ecsb.html International Non-Affiliated http://www.icsb.org/affiliates/international.html Japan http://www.icsb.org/affiliates/japan.html Korea www.icsb.org/affiliates/korea.html Puerto Rico and the Caribbean http://www.icsb.org/affiliates/prc.html Republic of China http://www.icsb.org/affiliates/roc.html Singapore http://www.icsb.org/affiliates/entforum.html Southern Africa http://www.icsb.org/affiliates/sacsba.html United States http://www.icsb.org/affiliates/usasbe.html Ivy Sea, Inc. & Ivy Sea Online Jamie S. Walters, Founder, Ivy Sea, Inc. Author, Big Vision, Small Business 3701 Sacramento Street, No. 199 San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 778-3910 Fax: (415) 752-6317 Email: jwalters@ivysea.com Web site: http://www.ivysea.com Focus: Advocacy and consulting to help entrepreneurs and leaders in organizations of all sizes define, communicate and make practical progress towards their visions of conscious enterprise, positive transformation, mindful change, and inspired livelihood. Geographic Area: International site audience; national client base Products and Services: Award-winning web library (recognized by Harvard Business School and others), consulting and advocacy services, PDF Library for use in training and communication, published materials including highly acclaimed book, Big Vision, Small Business (Berrett-Koehler Publishers, November 2002). Age Level: Adults who are classroom and organizational leaders, entrepreneurial-project leaders Key Partners: Ivy Sea Collaboration Network, other mindful enterprises and advocates. Abstract: Ivy Sea, Inc. is a "small size, big impact" firm based in San Francisco, California. We provide resources and inspiration for solopreneurs, small-business owners and organizational leaders to help them define their own principles of conscious enterprise, mindful change, or inspired livelihood; plot a course from their reality towards their ideal; navigate that transformation more effectively; and communicate with a more authentic, effective voice. We also advocate on behalf of conscious enterprise and livelihood through a variety of published materials and other venues. Whether we're strategizing, researching, writing, sharing information and resources, brainstorming ideas, or catalyzing dynamic discussions, we do so with our trademark care, creativity, inspiration, skillfulness and straight-forward honesty. We have a deep appreciation for the potential hidden in most individuals and groups, as well as the power of "big ideas," and enjoy being catalysts to encourage others to unleash that potential to the benefit of their organization and beyond. KCCatalyst Ken Berlack, Director of Marketing Communications KCCatalyst 4747 Troost Ave. Kansas City, MO 64110 816-235-6185 Fax: 816-235-6568 Email: kberlack@kccatalyst.com Web site: www.kccatalyst.com Focus: Collaboration. Commercialization. Capital Formation. Abstract: KCCatalyst, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that works to accelerate the emergence and growth of technology and life sciences-based companies and jobs in the greater Kansas City bi-state region. KCCatalyst achieves its mission by providing programs, services, and business support to entrepreneurs centered on three major activities - collaboration, commercialization, and capital formation. Through these activities, KCCatalyst harnesses community leadership and resources to help growth-oriented entrepreneurs launch and grow successful companies. KCCatalyst understands the importance of networks. We aim to keep our community readily connected to ideas, individuals, companies, and resources for our regional growth and success. Networks provide ideal forums for sharing ideas, mentoring and partnering opportunities, continuous education, and information on the latest trends, issues, and topics. And most importantly, we aim to create a culture and infrastructure where business communities can thrive. Emerging businesses represent not just the present but future strength of our region's economy. We see the economic power of emerging companies in Kansas City and nationwide. Entrepreneurs, for example, create new businesses and jobs at a brisk rate. In the United States, about 600,000 to 800,000 businesses are started each year. And about five to 15 percent of the United States approximately 6,000,000 businesses create the majority of net new jobs. Emerging companies certainly are a special category of business and they have special business needs -- such as access to networking opportunities, early-stage capital preparation and contacts, as well as mentoring and business counseling. Kauffman Foundation Judith Cone, Vice President for K–14 Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation 4801 Rockhill Rd. Kansas City, MO 64110 816-932-1158 Fax: 816-932-1430 Email: jcone@kauffman.org Web site: http://www.kauffman.org Focus: Leadership in developing new programs in entrepreneurship education Geographic Area: National Products and Services: Teacher Training, materials development, and leadership activities Age Level: Instructors for students K–14, and adult program leaders Abstract: The Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership houses two institutes: the Entrepreneur Training Institute, which serves adults; and the Institute for Entrepreneurship Education, which designs and operates entrepreneurship programs for youths in elementary school through community college. The mission of the center is to accelerate entrepreneurship in America. The center was established in 1992 to train, educate and encourage entrepreneurs. Initiatives created by the center are generally first piloted in Kansas City and then gradually phased in to a wider audience. The Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership supports the Kauffman Foundation’s emphasis on youth development and entrepreneurship based on the leadership provided by Ewing Marion Kauffman, a successful entrepreneur who built Marion Laboratories into a major diversified healthcare company. When Kauffman created the Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership at the Kauffman Foundation in 1992, he had one outcome in mind: the development of entrepreneurs and their companies, which would lead to job creation. He understood that jobs—indeed, economic development—depended upon the ability to grow companies. He was convinced that the best way to enhance the possibilities of success for entrepreneurs was to identify and teach the skills that contribute to entrepreneurial development. The entrepreneurs' Web page ( http://www.entreworld.org) presented by the Kauffman Foundation provides resources for entrepreneurs in relation to 1) Starting Your Business, 2) Growing Your Business, and 3) Supporting Entrepreneurs. They search every corner of the Web and deliver the best resources, so you can devote your attention to your business. EntreWorld's Business Info Center can put you in touch with the information you need by making it easy to link with the best Web sites in any of five key categories: Finding People and Businesses; Making Travel Plans; Locating Top-Notch Employees; Shipping and Tracking Packages; and Finding the Best Office Equipment. You can also reach the center for purposes of grants and program information at www.kauffman.org. They also sponsor the CELCEE database on entrepreneurship, which can be found at www.celcee.edu The National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE) Heather Van Sickle, Executive Director The National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship Springfield Technical Community College 1 Federal Street, Building 101-R Springfield, MA 01105 413 755-6102 Email: vansickle@nacce.com Web site: www.nacce.com Abstract: The National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE) is dedicated to providing a cohesive system of entrepreneurship and incubation education utilizing community colleges as a coalescing force to accelerate the development of new venture creation in America. NACCE will be a major channel of distribution for best practices in entrepreneurship and student incubation at the community college level. NACCE was founded at Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) in Springfield, Massachusetts. In 2001, STCC's Technology Park, with the Springfield Enterprise Center, was designated by the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration as "The Most Innovative Urban Economic Development Initiative in the Nation". With STCC as a charter member, it is this expertise that NACCE intends to make available to other community colleges with the goal of creating and sustaining economic vitality through entrepreneurship and incubation education. The American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) has defined economic development as one of the six major strategic areas for community college action over the next five years. Community colleges are ideally positioned to expand entrepreneurship and therefore economic development and workforce development, according to a study from the National Commission on Entrepreneurship, for the following reasons: They serve a huge number of students representing many different populations. They exist in nearly every community. They serve a greater percentage of minorities and women. They are market-driven; they have a long history of responding flexibly to the needs of local employers and residents. Because of these characteristics, community colleges represent an important, untapped resource for creating and sustaining economic vitality through entrepreneurship and incubation education. It is incumbent upon community colleges to support new business development, especially as new ventures become an ever-larger segment of our national and regional economies. Why Create A National Organization? NACCE acts as a catalyst for placing community colleges in the forefront of new venture creation. Through its founding member, Springfield Technical Community College, NACCE will be a major channel of distribution for best practices in entrepreneurship and student incubation education at the community college level. Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) has been a leader in entrepreneurship education and student incubation since 1996. The STCC Entrepreneurial Institute, through its Young Entrepreneurial Scholars (YES!) program, has developed and implemented educational programs that begin with the eighth grade and continue through high school. Presently, over 1,000 youth in two dozen high schools are part of STCC's partnership with local public schools. Students completing these high school-based programs may enter the College with advanced standing. Students entering as college freshmen can also pursue associate degree and certificate programs in entrepreneurship studies. STCC's Entrepreneurial Institute houses a Student Business Incubator while the Springfield Enterprise Center provides business incubation support to STCC graduates and other adult entrepreneurs in Western Massachusetts. National Association for the Self-Employed Director NASE 1023 15th St., NW, Suite 1200 Washington, DC 20005 800-232-NASE Web site: http://www.nase.org Focus: Services to small-business owners, scholarships to youths Abstract: The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) was founded in 1981 by a group of small-business owners who recognized they could obtain lower prices for goods and services, which large businesses enjoy, simply by banding together. The NASE represents more than 320,000 members nationwide, and has grown to be the largest association of its kind, representing the smallest of small businesses. In 1988 it started a scholarship program for its members' dependents; later it added the Future Entrepreneur of the Year Award. According to NASE, the award is the largest scholarship given by a small-business organization and the only major award supporting the philosophy of entrepreneurship rather than a specific profession. The competition is open to legal dependents of NASE members. Winners are selected based on past academic performance and potential, school and community participation, work experience, career and educational aspirations and goals, unusual personal or family circumstances, and a reference from a non-parent. Financial need is considered in the final screen. Recipients are selected without regard to race, creed, color, sex, religion, or national origin. Scholarships can be used to fund full- or part-time study of any major at accredited colleges and universities, post-secondary vocational schools, or community colleges. Funds can also be applied to tuition, books, lab fees, room and board, or any other related educational expenses. National Business Association Raj Nisankavao, President 5151 Beltline Rd, Suite 1150 Dallas, TX 75240 972-458-0900 Fax: 972-960-9149 Email: r.nisankavao@natlbus.com Web site: www.nationalbusiness.org Focus: Assistance to small-business owners Geographic Area: National Products and Services: Education and support services Age Level: Adult business owners Abstract: The National Business Association (NBA) was established in 1982 with the sole purpose of supporting and educating small-business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals. As a nonprofit organization, the NBA uses its group buying power to provide our members with vital support programs, cost- and time-saving products, services, and valuable small-business resource materials. The NBA represents the small-business sector in Washington, D.C., monitors legislation, and voices concerns to key government representatives. In addition to the various support programs available to our members, the NBA also maintains close working relationships with organizations throughout the nation that assist the small-business community. Our affiliation with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in Washington, D.C., as well as regional and district offices nationwide, is instrumental to our association's success. We are highly supportive of the SBA's three major programs: the Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), the Business Information Centers (BIC), and the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) chapters. We assist SBDC, BIC, and SCORE in various ways: publishing forms and literature, as well as cosponsoring forums and seminars to provide a means of education and training to small-business owners and entrepreneurs everywhere. The NBA participates in numerous national and local small-business events such as the White House Conference on Small Business, SBA Small Business Week, Inventors and Innovators Expo, Young Entrepreneurs conferences, Women Owned Business conferences, and Government Contracting Seminars. In 1994, the NBA First Step Software Series garnered favorable publicity on NBC's morning show, the Today Show, and consistently receives national recognition in Newsweek and PC World magazines. Our First Step Software Series, which was developed in partnership with the Small Business Administration, is now available in Windows, DOS, Macintosh, and Spanish/DOS formats. National Business Incubation Association (NBIA) Dinah Adkins, President and CEO 20 East Circle Drive, Suite 190 Athens, OH 45701 740-593-4331 Fax: 740-593-1996 Email: dadkins@nbia.org Web site: www.nbia.org Focus: To provide professionals who assist entrepreneurs in developing and sustaining their enterprises with information and opportunities for networking and professional development. The Association also promotes and advances the business incubation industry. Geographic area: International Products and services: NBIA offers conferences, workshops, publications, an information-rich Web site and a mail-order bookstore. For members, the Association offers special services, including technical assistance, a members-only Web site, two newsletters and a Partner Program through which NBIA members and their client companies receive reduced-rate access to business services and products. Age level: Adults Key partners: NBIA is served by an Advisory Council of corporate, governmental and nonprofit representatives. The Council provides NBIA with a broad base of support and expertise through sponsorships, services, counsel on strategic initiatives and access to networks and resources. Advisory Council members include Nidus Center for Scientific Enterprise, George V. Voinovich Center for Leadership and Public Affairs, Tennessee Valley Authority and Turnstone, a Steelcase Company. A 15-member Board of Directors representing North America's leading incubators governs the Association. Abstract: Business incubation is a dynamic process that fosters business enterprise development. Incubators offer budding entrepreneurs a tailored program of business and technical support services, hands-on management assistance, links to financing, shared office services, access to equipment and flexible leases, all under one roof. An incubation program's main goal is to produce successful graduates-businesses that are financially viable and freestanding when they leave the incubator, usually in two to three years. Business incubators do more than grow new businesses. They also represent an effective economic development tool that can create new jobs, spur commercialization of new technologies and diversify and strengthen local economies. According to the Impact of Incubator Investments study, 1997: In 1996 incubators reported that, on average, their firms had created 468 jobs directly and 234 additional "spin-off" jobs in the community, for a total of 702 jobs. The estimated public-dollar subsidy per job created was $1,109. It is not uncommon for the cost of other job-generating economic development programs to be three to six times higher. 87 percent of incubated companies that fulfilled program graduation requirements are still in business. On average, 84 percent of incubator graduate companies remain in their communities. NBIA provides its members with tools that allow them to develop and sustain best practices in their incubation programs. Through conferences and training institutes, NBIA offers more than 60 educational sessions annually, covering topics as diverse as starting a business incubator, serving inexperienced entrepreneurs, commercializing technology, finding creative financing and conducting an effective feasibility study. The NBIA bookstore carries more than 80 books. The Association's Partner Program gives members and their client companies access to affordable office furniture, computer hardware and software, IT testing services and other valuable products and services. With about 1,200 members from 50 nations, the National Business Incubation Association is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) membership organization with headquarters in Athens, Ohio. National Center for Social Entrepreneurs Jim Thalhuber, President and CEO Mary Birchard, Vice President, Client Services National Center for Social Entrepreneurs Minneapolis, MN 952.898.0661 Email: info@socialentrepreneurs.org Web site: www.socialentrepreneurs.org Abstract: The National Center is a nonprofit consulting company founded in 1985. Its mission is to increase the effectiveness and financial self-sufficiency of the nonprofit sector by helping individual nonprofits think and act in a more businesslike and entrepreneurial manner. Up through the 1970s, nonprofits had little need to think like businesses or to be entrepreneurial. There was adequate government funding, scant competition and generous giving. But the nonprofit sector was “mugged by reality” over the next couple of decades, beleaguered by cuts in public support, increasing competition from a growing number of nonprofits, burgeoning demand for services, emerging social issues like AIDS and homelessness, and a host of other problems. Whether bringing focus to current programs or taking advantage of new marketplace opportunities, the National Center is helping to change the organizational culture of its clients, from behaving like charities to acting like nonprofit businesses. The end result is a win-win-win scenario - more people in need receiving more services, less pressure on limited government and charitable resources, and a more self-reliant and financially self-sufficient nonprofit sector. The National Center for Social Entrepreneurs offers nonprofits a new strategy for dealing with marketplace realities. It's called social entrepreneurship, and it combines the passion of a social mission with a business-like approach to the marketplace. It enables nonprofits to find - and keep - a productive balance between doing good (mission) and paying for it (money). Through its unique array of tools, process and approach, the National Center works with nonprofits to: Enhance their skills in research, planning and marketing, thereby improving their ability to evaluate opportunities, make informed decisions and serve more clients more effectively. Identify and expand their most effective and needed programs, eliminate truly unnecessarily or duplicative programs, and ;selectively add new services to meet identified community Earn more income from fees, contracts, product sales, etc., reducing their reliance on "granted" revenue from government and philanthropy, and achieve greater financial sustainability. Introduction to Social Entrepreneurship Seminar - This seminar describes the basic principles and raw materials of entrepreneurship, discusses the risks and rewards inherent in becoming more entrepreneurial, shares tools being used by successful social entrepreneurs, and shows what social entrepreneurship is doing to change organizations and strengthen communities. The Entrepreneurial Roadmap™ - The Entrepreneurial Roadmap™ is designed to enable nonprofit organizations to sharpen their focus, increase their impact and become more financially self-sufficient. City Project The Entrepreneurial RoadMap™ is designed for a group of six to 12 medium-sized and/or large nonprofit organizations in a designated geographic area to enable them to sharpen their focus, increase their impact and become more financially self-sufficient. National or Regional Associations - The Entrepreneurial RoadMap™ for member organizations of a national or regional association is designed to enable these organizations to sharpen their focus, increase their impact and become more financially self-sufficient. Individual Project - The National Center offers The Entrepreneurial RoadMap™ process for individual nonprofits interested in sharpening their focus, increasing their impact and becoming more financially self-sufficient. The Entrepreneurial Pathfinder™ - The Entrepreneurial PathFinder™ process is an intensive six-month program for a cluster of five smaller nonprofits (usually with operating budgets below $250,000 and a handful of staff members). The program integrates group consulting with individual support, coaching and facilitation. National Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers Don Kuratko, Director Johnson Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation Kelley School of Business Indiana University - Bloomington, IN (812) 855-4248 Fax: (812) 855-2751 Email: jcei@indiana.edu Web site: http:www.national consortium.org Focus: Entrepreneurship education and leadership at the university level Abstract: The National Consortium has been formulated and developed over the last five years through the vision and support of the Kauffman Foundation Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership. Through the leadership of the University of Maryland, University of Southern California, and Ball State University, conferences were developed to bring together the best entrepreneurship centers in the United States. These conferences lead to the realization that greater collaboration among the directors of Entrepreneurship Centers would enhance and foster improvements in curriculum, research, outreach, projects and financial support for entrepreneurship. Under the sponsorship of the Kauffman Foundation, NASDAQ, and Beacon Venture Capital, the National Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers has been established for the purpose of continued collaboration among the centers. It is the vehicle by which the top established entrepreneurship centers, as well as the new emerging centers, can work together to share information; develop special projects, and assist each other in advancing and improving their centers' impact. The consortium seeks to become a focal point for the Entrepreneurship Centers across the United States to continue the advancement of entrepreneurial excellence. The Midwest Entrepreneurial Education Center at the College of Business, Ball State University has been chosen to be the administrative office for the national consortium. Below are the member universities of the National Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers. On the National Consortium website you can click on each school to visit their website. Babson College, Ball State University, Baylor University, Benedictine College, Boston University, Bradley University, Brigham Young University, Carnegie Mellon University, Colorado State University, Community College of Indiana, Cornell University, Council for Entrepreneurial Development, DePaul University, Drexel University, George Mason University, Georgia State University, Indiana University, Iowa State University, John Carroll University, Kennesaw State University, Lamar University, Loyola Marymount University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Northeastern University, Northern Kentucky University, San Diego State University, Southern Methodist University, St. Louis University, Stanford University, Syracuse University, Texas Christian University, Tufts University, University of Akron, University of Arizona, University of Colorado, University of Cape Town, University of Hawaii, University of Illinois Chicago, University of Iowa, University of Maryland, University of Michigan, University of Missouri Kansas City, University of Nebraska, University of North Carolina, University of North Carolina-Greensboro, University of Notre Dame, University of Portland, University of South Carolina, University of Southern California, University of St. Thomas, University of South Africa-Capetown, University of Virginia, University of Washington, University of Western Ontario, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Wake Forest University, Wichita State University. Sponsors include BeaconVentureCapital.com, Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, and NASDAQ. BeaconVentureCapital.com is a division of Beacon Global Advisors, Inc., a U.S. registered broker/dealer and investment advisor for high-net-worth individuals and institutions. BeaconGlobal Advisors maintains a prime broker and correspondent clearing agreement with Bear Stearns and Company in New York, one of the largest financial services companies in the world. The Nasdaq Stock Market is the fastest growing major stock market in the world and was the very first to electronic-based stock market. More than half of all shares that change hands in the United States each day do so on Nasdaq. By providing an efficient environment for raising capital, Nasdaq has helped thousands of companies achieve their desired growth and successfully make the leap into public ownership. National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Young Entrepreneur Foundation , Hank Kopcial, President 1201 F Street, NW, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20004 202-554-9000 Fax: 202-554-5572 Web site: http://www.nfib.com Focus: Advocacy of small business and legislation favorable to this audience Geographic Area: National Products and Services: To address the need to build the future generation of small business owners, NFIB created the NFIB Education Foundation. The Foundation, a 501 (c) 3, promotes free enterprise and entrepreneurship to America's youth. The NFIB Education Foundation sponsors the Free Enterprise Scholars Award, a national program to award more than $100,000 in scholarships ($1,000/each) to high school seniors who have demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit or initiative. The Foundation also sponsors a summer internship program for college students interested in small business advocacy. All donations to the NFIB Education Foundation are tax-deductible. The Executive Director of the NFIB Education Foundation is Susan Ridge. Age Level: Youth, high school and college age Key Partners: Junior Achievement (CEO is on the national board) Abstract: The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is the largest advocacy organization representing small and independent businesses in Washington, D.C. and all 50 state capitals. With a membership of 600,000 business owners employing more than seven million people, NFIB is a melting pot of commercial enterprise, manufacturers, family farmers, neighborhood retailers and service companies. Founded in 1943, NFIB was created to give small and independent business a voice in government decision-making. Today, the organization remains true to its charter of advancing the concerns of small-business owners among state and federal legislators and regulators. Two fundamental differences make NFIB stand out from most other associations. First, to ensure NFIB members voice their opinions-and get heard-we use balloting, not steering committees or a board of directors, to determine our policies. They vote on public policy positions, and the majority sets the NFIB official position. Each NFIB member gets one vote. And, we report back to our members on the progress of our state and federal programs. Second, to prevent undue influence by one member or group of members, dues are capped. The maximum dues are $2,400. NFIB advances the consensus of the small-businesses community, rather than the narrow interests of any particular group. Once the ballots are tallied - five times a year and at least once a year on state issues - NFIB's lobbyists carry a unified message to Congress and the state legislatures, backed by the clout of hundreds of thousands of small-business owners. With public policy offices in Washington, D.C., and all 50 state capitals, NFIB ensures small business owners have a strong voice in the development of legislation and regulatory policy. The NFIB Small Business Works for America Support Center is located in Nashville, Tennessee. The National Gallery for America's Young Inventors National Gallery for America's Young Inventors 80 West Bowery Street, Suite 305 Akron, OH 44308 Email: PAFInc@accinternet.com Focus: Honoring young inventors in grades K–12 Abstract: The National Gallery for America's Young Inventors is a program established for the purpose of enshrining great inventions produced by America's youths. The National Gallery complements the efforts of the National Inventors Hall of Fame by inducting six young people in grades K–12 annually. In this way, the National Gallery is taking the great ideas of American youths and preserving them forever. The induction of the National Gallery for America's Young Inventors is held every September, and runs concurrently with the National Inventors Hall of Fame induction at a separate location. Since the National Gallery for America's Young Inventors exists for the sake of our country's youths, we believe that its inductees should also be chosen by young people. Therefore, the National Gallery maintains a student board of directors comprising outstanding students from around the country who serve two-year terms and are primarily responsible for reviewing all nominations and selecting inductees into the Gallery. The student board of directors is overseen by an adult board of advisors, made up of outstanding businessmen and women who are accomplished inventors in their own right. These adults serve only in an advisory capacity to the student board and have no input into the actual selection of inductees. The National Gallery is run by the Partnership for America's Future, Inc., a nonprofit educational organization comprising businesspeople and full-time public school teachers. The National Gallery is one of many educational programs administered by the partnership, whose primary objective is to involve students everywhere in successfully solving real business and educational problems. Funding for the National Gallery for America's Young Inventors comes from business contributions, granting agencies, and individuals. Contributors, as well as schools participating in partnership programs, are featured in the National Gallery's multimedia exhibit located on the exhibit floor of Inventure Place, home of the National Inventors Hall of Fame. Mission Statement: The National Gallery for America's Young Inventors is making history by annually recognizing America's great student inventors and displaying their inventions. Goals: To demonstrate that valuable inventions can be created by America's youth. To display award-winning inventions derived from national competitions. To establish students as role models for other students. To demonstrate that educational achievement can be prestigious and glamorous. To provide the opportunity for students who are passive spectators to become active participants. To ignite the faith that students can solve real-world problems. To show that adults and youths can work together for positive educational goals. To inspire student pride in learning. To inspire America's pride in her students. National Youth Employment Coalition Kate O’Sullivan, Director of Program and Network Services "Pepnet" National Youth Employment Coalition 1836 Jefferson Place, NW Washington, DC 20036 202-659-1064 Fax: 202-659-0399 Email: ko@nyec.org Web site: http://www.nyec.org Abstract: The National Youth Employment Coalition (NYEC) is a nonpartisan national organization dedicated to promoting polices and initiatives that help youths succeed in becoming lifelong learners, productive workers, and self-sufficient citizens. NYEC is a network of 100 youth employment/development organizations dedicated to promoting policies and programs that help youths succeed in becoming lifelong learners, productive workers, and self-sufficient citizens. NYEC shares information about youth policies and programs among practitioners, policy makers, researchers, and advocates. NYEC's Web page provides access to information on NYEC activities, legislation, and effective practices. Research Institute for Small and Emerging Business, Inc. Director, RISEbusiness 722 12th St., NW Washington, DC 20005 202-628-8382 Fax: 202-628-8392 Email: info@riseb.org Focus: Information on small business Abstract: Founded in 1976, the Research Institute for Small & Emerging Business, Inc. (RISEbusiness) is based in Washington, D.C. By providing corporations, policymakers, and business or trade associations serving the small and emerging business sector with substantive and insightful (market, policy, and field) research on issues impacting the formation and growth of small and emerging businesses, we inform and enhance decision-making pertaining to this important sector of the economy. Market Gap: There is a lack of high-quality information based on rigorous qualitative and quantitative research on the small and emerging business sector for individuals and organizations seeking to make informed decisions about the business sector. Mission: To enhance the formation and growth of the small and emerging business sector by developing and sponsoring high-quality, groundbreaking research on small and emerging businesses and then ensuring its effective dissemination. Vision: To be the premier independent, nonpartisan research organization - funded by foundation grants, corporate sponsors, alliance partners, and individual gifts - on issues impacting the formation and growth of small and emerging businesses. "RISEbusiness and The Council of Growing Companies have been strategic partners for several years now, and the mutual value just keeps getting stronger. Both organizations have similar missions and are committed to the cause of entrepreneurship. We consider RISEbusiness to be "our research institute," because its projects complement our work so well. Partnering on joint projects, such as Welfare-To-Work, we have gained unique insight into key issues and how to impact public policy for the betterment of our economy." SBDC National Information Clearinghouse Valerie Johnson, Director SBDCNET 1222 N. Main, Ste. 712 San Antonio, TX 78212 1-800-689-1912 Fax: 210-458-7840 Email: sbdcnet@utsa.edu Web site: http://sbdcnet.utsa.edu Focus: Information for small business development centers Geographic Area: National Products and Services: Information Age Level: Adult business owners Key Partners: U.S. SBA Abstract: The SBDC National Information Clearinghouse facilitates the sharing and exchange of information among Small Business Development Centers, the Small Business Administration, and other business-oriented contacts. offers its clients rapid delivery of information in response to requests; referrals to experts and to regional sources of information; training in information-access techniques; access to business-related information resources; and dissemination of SBA publications. The SBDCNET staff consists of one director, three librarians, two searchers, one administrative assistant, one library assistant, one clerk, and several student interns. Small Business Advancement National Center Don Bradley III University of Central Arkansas Marketing Department UCA Box 5018 Conway, AR 72035 501-450-5345 Email: donb@mail.uca.edu Web site: http://www.sbaer.uca.edu Abstract: Located on the University of Central Arkansas campus in Conway, Arkansas, the Small Business Advancement National Center (SBANC) is an organization founded in 1990 by Dr. Don B. Bradley III, executive director of the center and professor of marketing at UCA. Since its inception as the Small Business Institute Directors' Association National Center, it has evolved into a multi-faceted small business counseling and electronic resource information center. SBANC's purpose is to provide the following with the necessary resources to further their business and economic efforts and goals: small businesses, economic development officers, entrepreneurs, government agencies, educators, small business counselors, students, international trade development officers, lawyers, and state and federal legislatures. Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) Johnnie Albertson, Director Small Business Development Centers U.S. Small Business Administration 409 Third St., SW Washington, DC 20416 Web site: http://www.sba.gov or Web site: http://www.sbaonline.sba.gov Abstract: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) administers the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Program to provide management assistance to current and prospective small business owners. SBDCs offer one-stop assistance to small businesses by providing a wide variety of information and guidance in central and easily accessible branch locations. The program is a cooperative effort of the private sector, the educational community, and federal, state, and local governments. It enhances economic development by providing small businesses with management and technical assistance. There are now 57 small business development centers—one in every state (Texas has four), the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands—with a network of nearly 1,000 service locations. In each state there is a lead organization that sponsors the SBDC and manages the program. The lead organization coordinates program services offered to small businesses through a network of subcenters and satellite locations in each state. Subcenters are located at colleges, universities, community colleges, vocational schools, chambers of commerce, and economic development corporations. SBDC assistance is tailored to the local community and the needs of individual clients. Each center develops services in cooperation with local SBA district offices to ensure statewide coordination with other available resources. Each center has a director, staff members, volunteers, and part-time personnel. Qualified individuals recruited from professional and trade associations, the legal and banking community, academia, chambers of commerce, and SCORE (the Service Corps of Retired Executives) are among those who donate their services. SBDCs also use paid consultants, consulting engineers, and testing laboratories from the private sector to help clients who need specialized expertise. The SBA provides 50 percent or less of the operating funds for each state SBDC; one or more sponsors provide the rest. These matching fund contributions are provided by state legislatures, private sector foundations and grants, state and local chambers of commerce, state-chartered economic development corporations, public and private universities, vocational and technical schools, community colleges, etc. Increasingly, sponsors' contributions exceed the minimum 50 percent matching share. The SBDC Program is designed to deliver up-to-date counseling, training, and technical assistance in all aspects of small-business management. SBDC services include, but are not limited to, assisting small businesses with financial, marketing, production, organization, engineering and technical problems, and feasibility studies. Special SBDC programs and economic development activities include international trade assistance, technical assistance, procurement assistance, venture capital formation, and rural development. The SBDCs also make special efforts to reach minority members of socially and economically disadvantaged groups, veterans, women, and the disabled. Assistance is provided to both current or potential small-business owners. They also provide assistance to small businesses applying for Small Business Innovation and Research grants from federal agencies. Assistance from an SBDC is available to anyone interested in beginning a small business for the first time or improving or expanding an existing small business, who cannot afford the services of a private consultant. In addition to the SBDC Program, the SBA has a variety of other programs and services available. They include training and educational programs, advisory services, publications, financial programs, and contract assistance. The agency also offers specialized programs for women business owners, minorities, veterans, international trade, and rural development. The SBA has offices located throughout the country. For the one nearest you, consult the telephone directory under "U.S. Government," or call the Small Business Answer Desk at 1-800-8-ASK-SBA (fax is 202-205-7064). For the hearing impaired, the TDD number is 202-205-7333. SBDCs in ARC States: University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL (205) 934-7260 University of Georgia, Athens, GA (706) 542-6762 University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY (606) 257-7668 University of Maryland, College Park, MD (301) 405-2147 University of Mississippi, University, MS (601) 232-5001 State University of New York, Albany, NY (518) 443-5398 University of North Carolina, Raleigh, NC (919) 571-4154 Dept. of Development, Columbus, OH (614) 466-2711 University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA (215) 898-1219 University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC (803) 777-4907 University of Memphis, Memphis, TN (901) 678-2500 Dept. of Economic Development, Richmond, VA (804) 371-8258 Governor's Office of Community and Industrial Development, Charleston, WV (304) 558-2960 SME Forum/Foro Pyme Julie Nordskog Latin American Network Information Center (LANIC) Institute of Latin American Studies Sid W. Richardson Hall 1.310 University of Texas–Austin Austin, TX 78712 Email: nordskog@lanic.utexas.edu Focus: Exchange of information on business in Latin America Geographic area: U.S. and Latin America Key partners: Latin American Network Information Center Abstract: The SME Forum is an interactive site for the exchange of information on the small- and medium-enterprise sector in Latin America. The Multilateral Investment Fund and the Integration and Regional Programs Department of the Inter-American Development bank have launched the SME Forum as part of the Regional Management Training Project. The SME Forum was designed and developed by the Latin American Network Information Center at the University of Texas at Austin, the Internet's premiere gateway for research information on Latin America. The Regional Management Training Project serves to expand the supply of management training available for the SME sector in Latin America. Under this initiative, the following six institutions have been selected to execute demonstration projects that will design and market training products, methods, and materials for SME management training. Information on these institutions is available on our Projects page. Instituto de Altos Estudios Empresariales—Argentina Universidad Empresarial Siglo 21—Argentina Fundação Dom Cabral—Brazil Universidad Icesi—Colombia Instituto de Desarrollo Empresarial Anáhuac, Universidad Anáhuac—Mexico Universidad ORT—Uruguay The SME Forum is designed to disseminate up-to-date information on the demonstration projects as well as two workshops to be conducted as part of the regional management. In addition, the SME Forum seeks to facilitate the exchange of information on SME management training in Latin America, stimulate discussion of issues relevant to the SME sector, and provide resources of value to the SME community internationally. We encourage the participation of individuals and organizations with an interest in the development of the SME sector, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean. For related resources visit the IDB's Small and Medium Enterprise site. Our Gopher server, launched in 1992, was the first such information service for Latin America on the Internet, as was our Web site, which has been in continuous service since 1994. For five years, LANIC has served as the official registration authority for Latin American studies at the World Wide Web Consortium's (WC3) Virtual Library, a precursor to Yahoo! as the Web's first large-scale subject catalog. U.S. Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE) Joan Gillman, Executive Director USASBE 975 University Ave., Suite 3260 Madison, WI 53706 608-262-9982 608-263-0818 Email: jgillman@facstaff.wisc.edu Web site: http://www.usasbe.org Focus: Professional membership group Geographic Area: National/international Products and Services: Annual conference, newsletters, and journals Age Level: Business educators Abstract: USASBE is an affiliate of the International Council for Small Business (ICSB), founded in 1957 in the United States as a comprehensive organization of outstanding researchers, scholars, teachers, administrators, and public-policy makers interested in entrepreneurship and small business. As the organization grew, members decided to form national affiliates, and the U.S. Affiliate of the ICSB was established in 1981. In 1985, the name was changed to the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE). USASBE is a group of government officials, directors of small business development centers, and academics in fields like finance, marketing, management, and economics united by their common interest in entrepreneurship and small business. As leaders in their fields, they are making an impact on entrepreneurship education and government policy and on the development of small business and entrepreneurship. USASBE's forward-looking members are determined to remain on the cutting edge of research; they are extending the field of knowledge and shaping entrepreneurial thinking for the future. The purpose of this Web page is to share information with members and encourage growth in the field of small business and entrepreneurship. U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Entrepreneurial Development (OED) Hector V. Barreto, Administrator U.S. Small Business Administration 409 Third St., SW Washington, DC 20416 Web site: http://www.sba.gov or Web site: http://www.sbaonline.sba.gov Abstract: The guiding principles of the Office of Entrepreneurial Development are Apply the highest standards of excellence in the development and application of OED programs and initiatives. Develop enthusiastic and satisfied small-business customers. Embrace diversity as an essential component in the way we and others do business. Aggressively seek to serve underserved markets, especially economically disadvantaged women, veteran, and minority businesses owners. Educate small businesses on the benefits of employing welfare recipients and receiving related tax credits. Employ state-of-the-market technologies in the delivery of OED programs and initiatives. Mission: "To help small businesses start, grow, and be competitive in global markets by providing quality training, counseling, and other forms of management and technical assistance." Divisions include the following areas with separate leadership and priorities. Business Initiatives Native American Affairs One-Stop Capital Shops Small Business Development Centers Service Corps of Retired Executives Veterans' Affairs Welfare to Work Initiative Women's Business Ownership Village Banking - FINCA (The Foundation for International Community Assistance) Marlene Maria Leon, Associate Director FINCA USA 1101 14th St., NW, 11th Floor Washington, DC 20005 202-682-0404 Fax: 202-682-1535 Email: mleon@villagebanking.org Web site: www.villagebanking.org Focus: Community Based Organization & Private Sector Partnerships Abstract: While training is a key element for entrepreneurs, having access to initial capital to begin a business can be a hindrance to the success of any business. FINCA USA has successfully provided micro-loans to over 250 clients in the Washington/Baltimore metropolitan area with a 92% repayment rate of loans and 250 clients. This makes FINCAUSA one of the largest micro-loan programs in the country. FINCA USA has a 5 loan cycle program with loans ranging from $500 - $6000. We also provide a savings program as well as technical assistance. We also provide ways for our clients to improve their credit. Village banking is a means of delivering financial services-small loans and savings products-to those who could not otherwise obtain them. While many agencies and organizations provide small loans to low-income families, not all use the Village Banking method. Developed by FINCA Founder John Hatch, the Village Banking method is unique in the responsibility and autonomy given borrowers in running their banks and in its emphasis on community, as well as, individual development. The Village banking method has been shared widely with 40 voluntary agencies and development organizations who currently operate over 80 programs worldwide. Loans-at market rates of interest-are the central service provided by the Village Banking method. FINCA offers loans, not grants, to low-income micro-entrepreneurs, because at the root of their poverty is lack of opportunity, not lack of desire to work. While many poor families have ideas for fostering their own employment by creating small businesses, few can access the capital they need to begin. By virtue of being poor, they are cut off from this type of support because of lack of collateral or credit ratings. Even a small loan can stimulate productivity, enabling the micro-entrepreneur to build assets and purchase inventory at the best prices. By investing and repaying the loan and increasing his or her business as a result, the borrower reaps an additional reward-increased self-esteem through self-help. Loans are a renewable resource, which can impact entire communities. A loan is borrowed, invested, and repaid, after which it can be used to stimulate yet another fledgling business. FINCA loans circulate throughout low-income communities until their effect is multiplied many times. FINCA does not simply extend loans to low-income families, it helps to create community-run, community-focused credit and savings associations, particularly in areas untouched by the formal financial industry. The Village Banking method is highly participatory in nature. It gives the beneficiaries a voice and it involves them in the development process. Members not only receive loans, they form cohesive groups who manage and collect repayments on those loans, who save diligently and decide on ways to invest those savings, and who progress together, forming networks for mutual support. FINCA lends to groups of neighbors who come together to guarantee one another's loans, and to work together to ensure that the bank runs smoothly. The group is critical; without it, individuals cannot realize their full potential. By sharing their problems, challenges, and successes, clients learn and progress together. Village Banking groups are a great source of moral support for start-up enterprises. Members network, advertise for, and patronize one another's businesses. Cooperation takes precedence over competition. Micro-entrepreneurs know that if one members' business attracts customers to the neighborhood, all are likely to benefit. The working capital brought into the neighborhood by a Village Banking group seldom stops working. As FINCA loans rotate among members of the community and as members' savings are re-invested in the neighborhood, opportunity and economic vitality increase. FINCA (The Foundation for International Community Assistance) has been helping families to create their own solutions to poverty since 1984. FINCA is: An anti-poverty organization. Our work is aimed at creating employment, raising family incomes, and reducing poverty worldwide. A provider of financial services to low-income families. We offer small loans and a savings program to those turned down by traditional banks, believing that even the poor have a right to financial services. With these loans, families can invest in, and build, their own small businesses and their income-earning capacity. Worldwide, our clients pos