Workshops to focus on certification, loan program

The Minority and Women-Owned Business Division of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) will host two free workshops to assist small businesses in offering more products and services for state agencies Wednesday, Jan. 17 at AEDC offices, located at 900 W. Capitol Ave., Bessie Moore Room on the second floor Little Rock.

The Certification Assistance Workshop from 9 to 11 a.m. will focus on the state’s Minority Business Enterprise certification program, which provides opportunities to bid on contracts and provide services for state agencies that might not otherwise be offered to smaller businesses. The Minority Business Loan Mobilization Guaranty Program from 2 to 4 p.m. helps state-certified minority businesses obtain 90 percent of necessary capital – ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 – with loan guarantees for approved projects.

Workshop attendees will learn about program eligibility and receive assistance with the application process for certification. Complimentary parking is available outside the AEDC offices.

Register online for one or both classes here.