TAMIU SBDC Celebrates Small Business Management Graduates at Ceremony

A total of 49 current and future entrepreneurs recently commemorated a significant milestone in their professional lives alongside family and friends as they received a certificate of completion for participating in the Texas A&M International University Small Business Development Center's (TAMIU SBDC) Small Business Management Program (SBMP).

The celebration commenced at TAMIU with a networking breakfast, where guest speakers, instructors, partners, entrepreneurs and supporters engaged in lively discussions.

The annual ceremony featured distinguished guest speakers who encouraged the honorees to continue their journey toward success. The ceremony began with special remarks from TAMIU and SBDC representatives who guided attendees to available university resources.

Mónica Martínez, Laredo Chamber of Commerce executive director, encouraged entrepreneurs to be a part of Laredo's economic development. Keynote speaker Big Lou shared his entrepreneurial experience and mentioned how TAMIU SBDC helped him succeed as an entrepreneur, thus propelling his journey as a devoted Laredo advocate. He founded the publication, I Love Laredo, and serves in the Laredo Environmental Committee and is  a DJ at Mixit 102.9 Radio.

TAMIU SBDC Small Business Management Program graduates at their recent ceremony.

Program instructors expressed their pride in the participants' dedication. Many of the professionals who lead program classes have been with the SBMP since its inception. They all pour their experience and soul into guiding attendees down a clearer path in the business world.

Some of the program experts include Whitworth Cigarroa Attorney at Law, Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid, Primerica, Madison Avenue, and JP&A Tax Services, Eloy Gutiérrez, PLLC, the Texas Center, and Building Dreams.

“Since change is ongoing, professional growth is essential in business,” said Norma Rodríguez, SBDC Director. “Professional development is beneficial to more than just you as a business owner. It is also beneficial to your employees so that the business can grow over time.”

TAMIU SBDC Director Norma Rodríguez greets a Small Business Management Program graduate at the recent ceremony held at TAMIU.

The SBMP is recognized as the premier course for preparing and educating current and prospective small business owners in Laredo. SBDC offers a 10-course program taught by experts in various fields, including marketers, attorneys, lawyers, accountants, and business advisors. The courses assist entrepreneurs develop essential skills while discovering how to run a successful business. Additionally, participants receive free webinars and one-on-one business advice. 

For more information, visit the TAMIU SBDC website at sbdc.tamiu.edu , or call 956.326.2827.