Does the SBDC Work?

The SBDC’s performance is assessed based on the economic impact its customers achieve. Surveys consistently show that businesses assisted by the SBDC outperform non-assisted businesses, creating three times more jobs and increasing sales three times faster. For every federal dollar invested in the SBDC program, nearly $57 is returned in the form of tax revenue. Not a bad Return on Investment!

Our Vision

Creating a better Florida for all by helping business grow

Our Mission

 Providing businesses the expertise and resources to succeed

Ready to set up a no-cost consultation?

WE ARE EXPERTS AT THE GAME OF BUSINESS.

79% of Florida SBDC at FGCU Consultants own or have owned small businesses.

“Small businesses need all the help they can get, but they don’t need it from umpires that have never played the game.”
– Mark Brennan

Meet Your Consultants

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Luis Vargas
SBDC Consultant

I advise small businesses on every aspect of the company. I advise on how to start a business and guide each client through the lifespan of their business.

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Dorian Zwierewicz
Regional Director

I have a passion for helping small businesses and promoting personal financial literacy.

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Donna Jarrett
Administrative Assistant
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Debbie Lanford
International Trade Consultant
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Heidi Cramer
Growth Acceleration Assistance
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Sue Craig
Business Consultant
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Theresa Ayers
Social Media

My specialty is helping businesses develop a social media strategy that acts as an economic engine for your business. I help you create highly engaging channels that connect, captivate and convert.

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Elizabeth Goldbach
Start-up Consultant

Growing your small business is a lot harder than it sounds. It takes doing the right things, in the right order, at the right time. The growth acceleration tools I use will help you to grow your business in less time with less headaches. I will help you succeed on your own terms.

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Dorothy Browning
Lean Start-Up Models

I help clients, like you, successfully navigate the start-up and growth phases of your small businesses.

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Mark Odell
APEX Government Contracting Consultant

I consult with existing businesses interested in obtaining contracts to sell their goods/services with the Department of Defense (DoD), other federal agencies, state and local government agencies, and government prime contractors.

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Julio Estremera
Lead Consultant

I provide clients with the necessary tools to plan, start and grow their business.

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Marc Farron
Technology

I help clients increase revenues, reduce costs and become more secure by leveraging technology.

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Tim Hall
Finance

I help small businesses owners maximize their opportunity to get necessary financing so that their business might succeed.

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Doug Heffner
Sales

I develop lead generation strategies that help small businesses gain better customer retention that ultimately revitalizes your sales pipeline and increases your overall sales and profits.

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Amanda Simat
Marketing Coordinator
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Patti Guerzo
SBDC Consultant

I help new and existing businesses learn to do things the “easier way,” saving costs and aggravation. I can show you how to retain and expand your team in this competitive market, without breaking your payroll bank.

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Andrea Walker
Marketing Strategies

Marketing is the cornerstone of your small business growth. Using fragmented tactics won’t get you the results you need. I support small business owners by providing a step-by-step breakdown of marketing fundamentals with techniques that enable you to confidently implement your marketing initiatives.

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Neil Shnider
Financial Strategies, Growth Strategies, Budgeting & Forecasting, Business Development

I provide solutions to aid you in increasing your revenues, reducing your costs, and increasing profits and new markets.

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Suzanne Specht
Access to Capital

I assist your business with access to capital issues from a strategic growth point of view. I can apply my expertise, to help gauge what type of financing —from commercial lending to SBA loans to alternative sources—is the optimal option for your business success.

Request a No-Cost Consultation Today!

We provide the tools, strategies, and expertise to help Florida’s business community thrive. Schedule a no cost, confidential, one-on-one session today!

Florida SBDC at FGCU

Office Locations

Serving Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades & Hendry Counties

virtual appointments available for all locations
Downtown FSBDC Office

Lee County Economic Development Office
2201 Second St #500
Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: 239-745-3700
E-mail: sbdc@fgcu.edu

Cape Coral FSBDC Office

FGCU Small Business Development Center
3106 Del Prado Blvd. S, Unit 303
E-mail: sbdc@fgcu.edu

Main Office – Fort Myers

FGCU Small Business Development Center
Florida Gulf Coast University
Lucas Hall, 3rd Floor

10501 FGCU Blvd, S.
Ft. Myers, FL 33965
Phone: 239-745-3700
E-mail: sbdc@fgcu.edu

Naples FSBDC Office

Naples Chamber of Commerce
2390 Tamiami Trail N #210
Naples, FL 34103
Phone: 239-745-3700
E-mail: sbdc@fgcu.edu

Charlotte FSBDC Office

1255 Tamiami TrailPort Charlotte, FL 33952
*Please make an appointment
Phone: 239-745-3700
E-mail: sbdc@fgcu.edu