(June 1, 2009) – Congressman Lamar Smith hosted a small business forum sponsored by the South-West Texas Border Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the UTSA Institute for Economic Development on Monday, June 1, at Northeast Lakeview College. This workshop provided information on sources of funding and government contracts open to small businesses.

“In these times, we need solutions that will actually grow small businesses,” said Smith. “I advocate for entrepreneurs by working to lower taxes and reduce the high cost of health insurance. America's small businesses play a vital role in our economy, which is why I think this forum is important.”

"Smart business owners are looking to the future as we pull out of this economic decline, and now is the time to prepare," Robert McKinley, of UTSA's Institute for Economic Development.

“Northeast Lakeview College is proud to host this Small Business Forum,” says Dr. Eric Reno, president. “It contributes to the economic development of our community and provides enrichment opportunities for our residents, two important aspects of our mission.”

The forum provided two panel discussions that focused on accessing capital for small businesses and finding new opportunities in government contracting. Over 100 people, representing small businesses in the area, attended the event.