WPCC Small Business Center Director Named State Director of the Year
The North Carolina Community Colleges Small Business Center Network (SBCN) recognized Eddie McGimsey as State Director of the Year during its 2014-15 awards presentations in Greensboro, NC.
The Director of the Year is an award presented to the Small Business Center Director who has gone “above and beyond” in providing significant support to the Small Business Center Network mission at the State level, while also serving the entrepreneurship needs of its local service area with excellence.
“This award singles out a Director who has given their time, expertise, and support to their peers and to the overall organization,” said Dr. George Millsaps, State Director for the SBCN. “Every time I reached out for leadership, strategy or task management, experienced feedback, or support for a new initiative, Eddie was there, stepping up to the plate, to make sure we met our goals. I’m very pleased to present this award to Eddie McGimsey.”
McGimsey, who has served as Director of Western Piedmont’s Small Business Center for 10 years, shared his surprise and pride in receiving the recognition. He said, “To be selected for this award is an honor. Organizations like the NCCCS SBCN only remain successful if their leadership is open to new ideas along with nurturing their members. Dr. Millsaps and others in the NCCCS SBCN leadership provided me these opportunities which have helped me grow in my role as an SBC Director and as a member of the Small Business Center Network.”
Community College Small Business Centers provide education and training in their respective communities across North Carolina. There are 58 Small Business Centers, with 61 locations conveniently accessible to prospective and existing small business owners. Individuals who are considering the idea of starting a business can take advantage of free, confidential business counseling, high impact seminars and classes that are free of charge or available for a minimal registration fee, and resource and referral information to guide their steps in planning and growing their enterprises.
In 2013-14, the Small Business Center Network delivered 3,921 training events to 46, 678 participants and provided business counseling to 5,796 individuals. Those services resulted in 616 business start-ups and 2,885 jobs created and retained. Millsaps said, “North Carolina is fortunate to have one of the most business friendly climates in the nation and its leaders understand the important role small businesses play in economic development. Our Small Business Centers take budding entrepreneurs and guide them through the process of planning, developing and launching their new businesses. This is a tremendous service to individuals and a strong return on investment for the State of North Carolina.”