By Jonathan D. Epstein
Small-business owners and entrepreneurs can once again get some advice, training, counseling and encouragement from a host of business veterans and experts at the annual Straight Talk 2012 seminar coming up this weekend.
Sponsored by the Buffalo District Office of the U. S. Small Business Administration and SCORE Buffalo Niagara, Straight Talk is the 16th annual half-day conference designed to provide easy answers to a host of common questions for business owners and entrepreneurs.
The program, to be held from 8 a. m. to 1 p. m. Saturday in the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, will feature a series of lectures, seminars, one-on-one business and credit counseling, and networking opportunities with vendors, lenders and other business owners at information booths.
Topics for the hour-long seminars include business basics, navigating through taxes and permits, accessing government contracting opportunities, getting assistance for veteran business owners, marketing, addressing credit concerns and applying for loans.
More than 400 potential and existing businesses and more than 30 vendors — including lenders, economic development agencies, resource partners and local and state agencies — are expected to attend. Buffalo Mayor Byron W. Brown, Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz and SBA Region II Regional Administrator Jorge Silva-Puras also will participate.
“SBA is committed to expanding access to capital for small businesses and entrepreneurs in underserved communities so that we can drive economic growth and job creation,” said SBA Buffalo District Director Franklin Sciortino.
The cost is $15 in advance or $20 on the day of the event. Students are $10, and veterans are free, with identification. Parking is free, and the cost includes a continental breakfast and the eight-week Straight Talk Series, which otherwise costs $5 per session.
That series, which begins Feb. 7, features more information about starting, running or growing a business. The classes will be held from 5:45 to 8 p. m. at Medaille College.
For more information or to register, call 551-4301 or email to buffalo_do@sba.gov .