How to adapt and implement the SBDC model

The process of adapting and implementing the Small Business Development Center model is organized in three phrases:

1. Startup: This initial phase consists of gaining the support of stakeholders in the SME sector. The objectives are to generate awareness, gain support to adapt the SBDC model and guide the development of sustainable policies. To reach these objectives, the following activities will be executed:

  • In-country consultations during which we analyze the feasibility of implementing the model based on existing SME programs and groups discussions with representatives from the federal, state and local governments, private and academic sectors, and NGOs.
  • Visits to San Antonio, Texas and Washington, D.C. to analyze the services of the SBDC, obtain information about the creation and capture of economic impact, and learn how the federal government manage the structure and funding of the program as well as the creation of policies and the legal framework that supports it.
  • Development of SBDC policies that create the appropriate legal framework to sustain the development of the model. 

2. Domestic implementation: The domestic implementation consists in developing the capacity of the SBDCs and in promoting the sustainability of the model. This will be achieved through the following activities:

  • Diplomado trainings for future SBDC counselors and directors that will transfer the program technology and train professionals on how to operate an SBDC.
  • Estancias at the San Antonio SBDC with the goal of observing first-hand the operations and administrative functions of the centers.
  • Model systematization through the transfer and implementation of operative, control and information management systems that will allow the successful transition from an initial pilot network to a well-established, national network of SBDCs.
  • The creation of accreditation standards that guarantee the quality of the services as well as the best management practices across centers at the regional level.
  • The creation of a formal Association of SBDCs that represents the collective interest of its members and consolidates the political and financial sustainability of the program.

3. Internationalization: The last phase consists in opening new markets for SBDC clients that will increase global sales of goods and services throughout the Americas. This will be achieved through:

  • SBDCGlobal.com, an online trade platform that will link SBDC clients from the United States, Mexico, El Salvador, Colombia, Central American and the Caribbean. 

Funding Agencies & Sponsors

USAID ASBDC AMCDPE Universidad Veracruzana UTSA IED SWTX Border Region SBCD Network International Trade Center