weVENTURE Offers Support for Small Businesses Impacted by COVID-19

weVENTURE, the women’s business center in Florida Tech’s Bisk College of Business, is available to help small businesses navigate the unfolding coronavirus situation and its impact.

weVENTURE and other women’s business centers funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are focusing their efforts on helping business owners understand and utilize the many disaster aid programs available and determine how state and national policy changes may affect their operations. 

“During normal circumstances, weVENTURE helps women launch and grow their businesses,” said weVENTURE Executive Director Kathryn Rudloff. “However, in times of crisis, we are a local partner of the SBA helping businesses get access to the information and resources they need.”

“Our staff are available to help answer questions about the various disaster loan programs available, as well as offer free consultations on how businesses can respond during this uncertain time,” she continued.

weVENTURE’s region, as defined by the SBA, includes all of Brevard, Indian River and St. Lucie counties. 

weVENTURE is hosting webinars on timely topics related to coronavirus response, as well as their normal business training. The “Launch Your Venture 101” session on April 3, and the G.E.M.S. series for aspiring entrepreneurs is continuing via digital platforms, as is the Athena NextGen Leadership Series for professional women. The IGNITE 360 Business Mentoring Program is also available to help established businesses tackle strategic or organizational challenges. 

Additional upcoming online opportunities from weVENTURE include:

• April 15: weCONNECT – Virtual Session on Tips to Survive A Business Crisis
  8:30-9:30 a.m., $12.50

• May 1: Strong Coffee Strong Women – Virtual Session on Government Contracting
  8-10 a.m., $20

Pertinent updates will be posted at weVENTURE.fit.edu and sent out via the weVENTURE newsletter (sign up here) and social media accounts. Individuals may call the office for personal assistance.

“weVENTURE will continue to be a resource for small business owners who are facing uncertainty during the coming weeks,” Rudloff said. “Our staff is available for phone or web consultations, and will continue to provide business education and training programs via digital platforms. No matter what your business is facing, weVENTURE is here to help.”