When: May 2, 2024, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where:
Online Webinar
Join us for an insightful webinar hosted by the Penn State Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Agriculture Center of Excellence (Ag COE) in partnership with the Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program (PennTAP). This webinar aims to empower Pennsylvania Agricultural Producers and Small Businesses seeking guidance, support, and funding opportunities.
Agenda:
- Introduction to the SBDC and Ag Center of Excellence: Discover the mission, objectives, and resources offered by SBDC, dedicated to empowering small businesses in Pennsylvania.
- PennTAP Overview: Gain insights into the services and assistance provided by PennTAP, aimed at fostering growth and innovation within the state’s business and agricultural landscape.
- Exploring the USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grant: Delve into the details of the REAP Grant, including eligibility criteria, application process, timing, and the potential impact on agricultural and small business enterprises.
- Guest Speaker: Hear from a past REAP Grant recipient as they share their firsthand experience of securing and leveraging the grant to enhance their operations. Gain valuable insights, tips, and lessons learned from their journey.
Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and explore funding avenues to propel your business forward. Register now to secure your spot.
Speakers include:
Martin Brill, Program Manager, Small Business Development Center – Kutztown University
Martin R. Brill, Program Manager, International Trade, has been employed at the Kutztown University SBDC for over 25 years before retiring and joining the Penn State SBDC in September 2021. He is currently the Coordinator for the Ag Center of Excellence. Martin has exported food, equipment and chemicals with Sysco Corporation in Maryland and previously he financed exports at Maryland National Bank and The First National Bank of Chicago. He has published numerous articles on website evaluation and export finance in Euromoney, Export Today, Central Penn Business Journal and Eastern Penn Business Journal and Export Finance. Martin has a Bachelor of Science degree in Foreign Service from Georgetown University and a Master of Arts degree in Mideast Studies from the School of Oriental and African Studies, London University.
Amy Jorden, Technical Advisor, Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program
Amy Jorden, C.E.M., is a technical advisor serving South Central Pennsylvania, working from the Penn State University Park Campus and Altoona. Amy is responsible for providing technical assistance related to energy efficiency, pollution prevention, and innovation to small and midsize businesses. Amy holds Bachelor’s degrees in management and accounting. Prior to joining PennTAP, Amy enjoyed 28 years with three different manufacturing companies. These manufacturers produced food, fluorescent and LED lighting, and paper. Amy understands the challenges of manufacturing and is eager to use her experience to provide consultations, unbiased technical advice, and connections to Penn State experts, resources and programs. Expertise in: Manufacturing, Customer Service, and Managing Client Relationships with Private Sector Companies