Florence, South Carolina – Small business owners across the Pee Dee will soon have a chance to step out from behind their desks and put their funding goals directly in front of potential lenders.
In partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Florence Small Business Development Center is preparing to host a Lender Matchmaker Event designed to connect entrepreneurs with banking representatives, community development financial institutions and local lenders in a more personal, fast-moving setting.
The event will take place Tuesday, May 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Drs. Bruce & Lee Foundation Library, 509 S. Dargan St. in Florence.
Organizers say the event is meant to give business owners a practical path toward financing, whether they are trying to grow an existing company, buy a building, invest in equipment or move a startup idea closer to reality.
Rather than relying on cold calls or long waits for appointments, participants will be able to meet one-on-one with multiple lenders and present their needs in a format described as business speed dating.
That direct approach made a difference for several companies during last year’s event, when introductions made through the program helped some businesses secure financing.
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With that track record in mind, this year’s gathering is expected to draw owners who are ready to make a serious case for capital and want immediate feedback from lending professionals.
The event is free to attend, and registration remains open, with 54 spots still available. The deadline to register is May 4 at 5 p.m. EDT.
Business plans that include financial projections are strongly encouraged, giving participants a better chance to show lenders not only where their business stands today, but where it could go with the right support. More information and registration are available through the Florence SBDC event page.
For questions, attendees can contact Egi Oakman-Black at (843) 661-8256. Organizers also note that accommodations related to disabilities may be requested in advance, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and state law.
The Florence SBDC also included its standard notice that training events are funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the SBA.
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It states that any opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed through the program do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA, and that services supported by federal taxpayer funds are offered to the public on a non-discriminatory basis.
For business owners with a plan in hand and financing on their mind, the May 5 event could serve as a timely opening to turn preparation into opportunity.
