CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Small Business Development Center (WV SBDC) has opened a new office in the Eastern Panhandle in partnership with Shepherd University’s business lab.

The WV SBDC opens satellite office in Shepherd University's business lab

From left to right: Dr. Benjamin Martz Dean College of Business; Dr. Mary J.C. Hendrix President Shepherd University, Carol Goolsby, professor Shepherd University and part-time WV SBDC Business Coach, Michael Boyd WV SBDC Business Coach.

“I believe this partnership between Shepherd University, College of Business (SU-COB) and the SBDC provides an important complement to the academic learning environment for our business students. Having SBDC on campus creates linking pins between SU-COB students and small businesses looking for assistance.” said Dr. Ben Martz, Dean of the College of Business at Shepherd University.

The business lab at Shepherd University’s main campus opened in January 2023. The WV SBDC also has an office in Martinsburg.

“Students are able to blend on-campus internships at the Applied Business Lab (ABL) with local small businesses into their coursework and gain academic credit. Small businesses are able to provide students with practical, real-world projects. In the end, this partnership provides a distinctive competence for our students as they enter their careers.” said Dr. Martz.

The WV SBDC opens satellite office in Shepherd University's business lab

“We have a good relationship with Shepherd University. The Martinsburg location is a positive asset that the university has provided to WV SBDC clients.” said Michael Boyd, Eastern Panhandle Business Coach for the WV SBDC.

The WV SBDC also collaborates with Shepherd University on capstone projects for seniors majoring in business.

The WV SBDC opens satellite office in Shepherd University's business lab

WV SBDC is an accredited member of America’s SBDC, a federal partner with the SBA, and a division of the WV Department of Economic Development.

The WV SBDC opens satellite office in Shepherd University's business lab

WV SBDC business coaches have professional certifications ranging from exporting, innovation, technology and economic development, to finance, management, marketing and entrepreneurship.

For more information about WV SBDC services and WV SBDC coaches, visit wvsbdc.com.

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