The Yavapai College Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is proud to announce that Certified Business Analyst Marie Platowski-Beals has been selected as this year's Arizona Star by the SBDC Network.
This prestigious State Star award is given annually to one individual from each state. Selected by a formal committee of network leaders and peers, State Stars recognize exemplary individuals who have made significant contributions to the network and a deep commitment to the success of America's small businesses.
Marie’s award marks the second time in just three years that a member of the Yavapai College SBDC team has received this prestigious award, highlighting the professional excellence, high performance and impactful results that the Yavapai SBDC team has consistently delivered.
“I know for sure that Marie is truly dedicated to our center, the university and our wonderful business clients, and she is very deserving of this award and recognition,” said center director Ruth Ellen Elinski.
The Yavapai College SBDC tracks economic impact figures, including new business starts, capital transactions and clients advised. These figures paint a picture of economic activity in the region and chart the progress of clients working with the SBDC over time. Economic impact is just one of several metrics considered in the State Star selection process. “Marie has worked with countless businesses in Yavapai County, helping them start and grow, access capital and increase revenue,” Elinski said. “Her numbers speak for themselves.”
Marie is also known for her strong relationships in the community and her approachable personality with clients. “Marie uses her experience to patiently guide her clients through well-thought-out business decisions, balancing the risks and potential rewards,” says Lori Simmons, vice president of Arizona Capital Source. “She spends days, weeks and months with her business clients to ensure they are fully prepared.”
The ceremony and formal recognition honoring Marie and other state stars from across the nation will take place at the National SBDC National Conference in Atlanta, Georgia this September, where Marie will represent the Arizona SBDC network and be recognized alongside other dedicated SBDC professionals for her outstanding contributions to small business.
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About the SBDC: The Yavapai College SBDC is one of 10 centers in Arizona that offers free, one-on-one confidential consulting and free workshop training to small business owners. Jointly funded by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Yavapai College, the Yavapai SBDC works with business owners throughout Yavapai County to help them start, grow, sustain and even exit their businesses. For more information about Yavapai College's SBDC services, visit: yc.edu/sbdc.
Yavapai College operates six campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County, offering more than 100 degrees and certificates, two bachelor's degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities.
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