Wyoming Business Tips for Feb. 18

A weekly look at issues facing Wyoming business owners and entrepreneurs from the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, a collection of business assistance programs at the University of Wyoming.

By Greg Jordan, associate state director, Wyoming SBDC Network

Operating a small business in Wyoming can seem like a lonely proposition. Sometimes, you feel like there is nowhere to turn, and you are the only one facing the problems of ownership. This struggle is even greater for businesses that are looking to expand their market by selling to the world’s largest customer: the U.S. government. Not knowing where to start or who to talk to can prevent access to this great market opportunity.

Networking with other small-business owners can be a great resource for idea creation, problem-solving and receiving referrals. When you’re looking to do business with the government, networking is even more important. Federal, state and local government agencies are always looking for a large variety of products and services from Wyoming small businesses. Speaking with procurement representatives is a great way to find out if your business can fill any of those needs.

If you’re looking to find these unique networking opportunities, the upcoming GRO-Biz Conference & Idea Expo is your best opportunity of the year. Labeled as Wyoming’s premier small business event, the GRO-Biz Conference & Idea Expo takes place Feb. 20-21 in Casper. This event features nationally recognized speakers on a variety of important topics and provides valuable networking opportunities for all Wyoming entrepreneurs, as well as those specifically interested in contracting with the government.

To reserve a spot or to learn more about this event, visit www.wyomingsbdc.org/grobiz.

The Wyoming SBDC Network offers business expertise to help Wyoming residents think about, launch, grow, reinvent or exit their business. The Wyoming SBDC Network is hosted by UW with state funds from the Wyoming Business Council and funded, in part, through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

To ask a question, call 1-800-348-5194, email wsbdc@uwyo.edu, or write 1000 E. University Ave., Dept. 3922, Laramie, WY, 82071-3922.