San Antonio SBDC Frequently Asked Questions

Who can use the services of the SBDC?

The services of the SBDC are open to anyone who currently owns a business or is interested in starting a business.

How much does it cost?

The counseling services and several of the training workshops are provided at no cost to our clients. The SBDC program is a partnership between the U.S. Small Business Administration and the University of Texas at San Antonio, which is the host institution for the South-West Texas Border Region SBDC and the San Antonio SBDC.

What if I don't live in San Antonio? Can I still use the services?

Absolutely. Not only is counseling conducted here in the San Antonio office, but also our counselors are free to meet with you at your place of business. Furthermore, our counselors travel to many of the communities surrounding Bexar County on a regular schedule. Eager to build the South Texas community one business at a time, we want to make our service as convenient as possible for our clients.

How often can a client meet with a counselor?

There is no limit to the number of times that a counselor can meet with a client provided that the meetings produce beneficial results for the client.

How long has the center been in existence?

The San Antonio SBDC was started in 1989 and has grown each year since then.

Approximately how many clients are counseled each year by the SBDC?

During fiscal year 2001, about 1,000 clients received counseling services from SBDC counselors and approximately 2,300 people attended training workshops.

Are the training workshops presented as a lecture or are they hands-on?

Some of the 100-150 training workshops presented each year are lecture style and some are hands-on through use of a computer. Each workshop is very interactive and small enough to provide individual learning.

Is there a fee for the training workshops?

Many workshops are presented at no charge, but others include a nominal fee to cover workbooks, handouts, and other materials.