Though starting a business has changed dramatically over the last 36 years, the Kentucky Small Business Development Center network has been there throughout. To celebrate the positive effect KSBDC’s consultants have across the state each year, the network of 12 offices will take part in the inaugural SBDC Day on March 22.

SBDC Day is a national movement created by America’s Small Business Development Center to help share the small-business success stories and the impact SBDCs have fostered in communities across the country.

Established in 1981, Kentucky’s SBDCs are an active part of the commonwealth’s business assistance network—helping aspiring and emerging small-business owners achieve the American dream of entrepreneurship. Since its inception, the Kentucky Small Business Development Center network has assisted 85,972 clients, created over 48,426 jobs, started more than 3,754 new business and helped businesses acquire well over $1.2 billion in capital infusion.

Social media will play a central role in the celebration of SBDC Day. Small businesses, partners and advocates are invited to help spread the word about the day using the hashtag #SBDCDay. On March 22, participants are encouraged to share how their local SBDC has created a difference in their life and community. SBDCs nationwide will share in real time the achievements and the notable effects SBDCs collectively have on the small business community at large. This special day will also be celebrated through public relations initiatives and campaigns and through online and in-person events.

“SBDC Day is more than a one-day event,” said Becky Naugle, state director for the Kentucky Small Business Development Center. “By celebrating small businesses and supporting KSBDC on SBDC Day and year-round, everyone can play a part in strengthening the economy of our communities.”

To learn more about SBDC Day, and to join the movement, visit http://www.AmericasSBDC.org/SBDCDay.

The Kentucky Small Business Development Center, part of the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, is a network of offices located throughout the state. The center helps existing and start-up businesses succeed by offering high quality, in-depth and hands-on services. KSBDC is a partner program with the U.S. Small Business Administration. More information on KSBDC services can be found on their website, http://www.ksbdc.org/.

America's SBDC represents the nation’s 63 Small Business Development Centers, a national network of partnerships uniting higher education, state and local nonprofit economic development organizations, private enterprise and government. It is the U.S. Small Business Administration’s largest partnership program, providing management and technical assistance to help Americans start, run and grow their own businesses. Learn more at http://www.AmericasSBDC.org.