Small businesses sought for institute

Owners of small businesses can learn valuable tips about how to be successful in the business world during University of Houston-Clear Lake’s Small Business Development Institute, a unique program offered through the university’s Center for Advanced Management Programs.

Applications for consultation during the fall 2008 semester are being accepted until Aug. 31.

Inventors, importers, exporters are just a few of the owners of existing small businesses, that can get the business assistance they may need by pairing them with advanced business students. Working under the guidance of an instructor, the student consulting team performs in-depth management studies and makes recommendations to the business owners.

“The institute helps many small-business owners gain a competitive edge by offering guidance that most small businesses simply cannot afford,” said Sam Bruno, professor of marketing and director of the institute. “Not only does the small business benefit from receiving the tools to succeed, but ultimately so does our local economy.”

To qualify for the program, prospective clients for the institute must have been in business at least six months, must be financially sound and located within 30- to 40-minutes driving distance from the Clear Lake area. Clients also must be willing to meet with students at mutually agreeable times and provide whatever data is needed, including financial information.

UH-Clear Lake students have assisted more than 500 businesses since the university began working with small businesses in 1975. For more information, call Small Business Development Institute Director Sam Bruno, 281-283-3122.