May 8, 2006 – In celebration of Small Business Week this week, FirstBank is participating in events for small business owners that provide information and practical tips for developing and sustaining a small business.
On Wednesday, FirstBank will collaborate with the University of the Virgin Islands Small Business Development Center to conduct a seminar at the SBDC training facility at Nisky Center on "Creative Financing" from 6 to 8 p.m.
Guest speaker John McDonald, FirstBank vice-president and commercial loan officer, will discuss financing options to obtain working capital and grow business.
FirstBank will be hosting small business clinics on Friday on St. Croix at the Sunny Isle Branch patio from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and on Saturday on St. Thomas at the Waterfront Branch from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The clinics will provide information on commercial business accounts and loan programs, Small Business Administration loans and tips on business plans.
Representatives from the SBDC and the Worker's Compensation Administration will be on hand to address questions.
"There are many resources in the Virgin Islands that offer assistance to small businesses," said McDonald. "Through our Small Business Week events, we hope to offer a platform for these resources to be more accessible."
Warren Bush, state director of the SBDC, said, "The UVI Small Business Development Center welcomes the opportunity to participate in activities that are designed to enhance the capabilities of our small business community."
