SBDC Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to make an appointment to visit the SBDC?
Yes, appointments are required in order to ensure an advisor is able to assist at a convenient time for you.

How much time should I allow for my appointment with an advisor?
Please allow an hour to visit with your advisor.
 
Where are you located?
The SBDC is located on the ASU campus.  We are in the Rassman Building on the second floor in room 201.

If you drive to the campus from Knickerbocker Road, take Johnson Street to the light at Dena Drive.  You will see the College Hills Baptist Church on your right.  Turn right and go to the third building on the left.

When driving from Avenue N, turn on to Johnson Street and go through two student cross walks to the light at Dena Drive.  Turn left at the light and go to the third building on your left.

Where should I park when visiting the Center?
There are two visitor parking spaces provided; however, you may park in any space available.  In the event you receive a parking citation when visiting the SBDC for advising or training services, and are not an ASU student, please call us and provide the ticket number.

 Does the SBDC loan to potential and existing small businesses?
The SBDC is not a lending institution but provides free and confidential assistance with loan and investor proposals as well as help small businesses understand the many loan programs available to them.  A loan proposal is much like a business plan but also includes detailed financial projections, current business financials and personal financial information the lender will need as they evaluate your proposal.

Can I do business with the government?
Yes, any business can sell goods and services to the federal, state, and various local governments.  However, some preference is given to women and minority owned businesses.  The SBDC can assist with various certifications that will help you and your business as you pursue government business.  The SBDC also conducts “Doing Business with the Government” seminars during the year.

Will you write my business plan?
The SBDC assists with developing a business plan for your business or potential business.  Our goal is to give you the knowledge, tools and ongoing guidance so you can develop your plan.  The true value of a business plan besides it being required for a loan proposal is what you learn about your business and industry during the process.

What do I bring with me to the initial counseling session?
You are not required to bring anything to the initial session with one of our business advisors.  Just bring your thoughts, questions and passion for what you want to do.  We can provide guidance from there.  Remember our business counselors have the previous business ownership, business management and business education to help you.  It is free and painless!

Is there a charge for the session?
Our one on one business advising services are free of charge.  Also, most of our training seminars and workshops are offered for free or for a nominal charge.

Can I bring a friend or family member to the session?
Please bring those whom you feel are important in developing your business and for the purpose of the advising session.  In most cases, spouses are integrally involved in business operations and decisions.  Young children can be distracting to you and the counselor if they attend the advising session.

Does the SBDC provide services to individuals and businesses outside of San Angelo?
Yes.  The Angelo State University – Small Business Development Center is ASU’s primary business outreach program to the small business community.  Our center covers ten counties of the Concho Valley and also includes Sterling County and Runnels County from Ballinger on down.  The SBDC has a dedicated rural business advisor who spends most of her time traveling to the rural communities to provide advising services.

Who can help me with a resume?
The SBDC will assist any client who is composing a business plan or proposal and requires the inclusion of a resume.  Otherwise, the Center will refer former, current, or potential ASU students to the Career Development office at 942-2255.  Anyone who is not a SBDC client or ASU student will be referred to Workforce Solutions of the Concho Valley at 653-2321.