Entrepreneurs have long been recognized as a critical piece in the economic success of a community. Traditional strategies of access to credit and business consulting services have been in place in Austin for a long time and continue to expand.

Partners at the Development Corporation of Austin, City of Austin, Mower County and local banks and credit unions offer access to credit.

Those launching a new business—or restructuring an established business—can seek expert advice, many times at no charge, from SCORE at the Austin Area Chamber of Commerce and others. The Development Corporation of Austin stepped up business consulting services by establishing a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Austin this fall.

The SBDC leverages federal Small Business Administration funds and local funds to link aspiring and current small business owners with SBDC advisors. Those advisors provide a variety of free business consulting and low-cost training services including: business plan development, manufacturing assistance, financial packaging and lending assistance, exporting and importing support, disaster recovery assistance, procurement and contracting aid, market research help, program support, and healthcare guidance.

Another strategy is emerging to ‘home grow’ entrepreneurs. Cities like Boulder, Colorado are known as having an entrepreneurial climate. Many communities are putting resources toward building that culture of entrepreneurship and Austin is no exception.

In 2013, the Vision 2020 Business Friendly Environment committee developed the Austin Area Business Forum (AABF). It is an educational and networking program offered by the Development Corporation of Austin and the Southern Minnesota Initiative Fund. The concept is simple: anyone with an interest in business is invited to attend the AABF on the third Thursday of the month at noon.

Starting in 2015, the AABF will meet at the Pizza Ranch where attendees can choose to purchase their own lunch buffet or just attend the meeting. A topic is presented and then there is discussion and networking time. Some months the presenter is an expert and other months a local business owner offers their experience and perspective on a challenging issue in business.

The 2015 AABF will kick off on Thursday, January 15 with Wade Kolander of AdvisorNet Financial speaking on ‘New Perspectives on Networking.’ Wade has started a new business four times, including once in a new state where he didn’t know anyone. He will share a range of ideas on connecting with potential clients. The presentation starts at noon and concludes at 1 p.m. There is no need to RSVP. If you would like to be added to the email list for the monthly AABF events, send email to laura@vision2020austin.com.

After all, we are building a culture of entrepreneurship in Austin and YOU can help!

Reminder, Eastwood Bank of Austin and Vision 2020 Community Pride & Spirit are collaborating on the Keep the Spirit Alive volunteer service challenge in 2015. To find out more, go to at www.vision2020austin.com/spirit or find us on Facebook at ‘Spread the Spirit in Austin MN.’