South Bend to Open Small Business Center

(photo courtesy of Project Impact South Bend)

Officials in South Bend will Wednesday cut the ribbon on a new center aimed at boosting small business development. The West Side Small Business Resource Center is the first of several neighborhood-based business development centers planned for the city.

The center is the result of a partnership among the city, Michiana SCORE, Project Impact South Bend and the South Bend Heritage Foundation. Located in a building owned by the foundation, the center provides resources such as mentoring, access to Small Business Development Center resources, and networking.

Project Impact South Bend says projections show the center could see 50 new business launches, 50 expanded businesses and 200 new jobs by 2020.

"The success of small business raises the quality of life for all community members and is essential for the flourishing of our neighborhoods," said South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg. "The West Side Small Business Resource Center will help ensure that all residents have access to support and services that reward innovation and encourage entrepreneurship."

Marco Mariani, executive director of the South Bend Heritage Foundation, says the center will help grow the relationships needed to expand opportunities for people and businesses looking to commercialize their ideas. The center will also provide training and support for Small Business Administration, Small Business Innovation Research, and Small Business Technology Transfer programs.

The ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for 1:00 p.m.