BUSINESS   Small Business Council

While the Small Business Council is here to serve all York County Regional Chamber’s small business members, we take special pride in one program in particular as it accomplishes the heart and soul of the Council’s purpose.

Small Business Council's purpose:
To address the needs and challenges of Chamber members who are small business owners and managers. The overall goal is to provide businesses with 25 or fewer employees the tools, training, information and support that will empower them to succeed. The Small Business Council focuses on companies with 1-25 employees, but not to exclude those who do not fit within that size. We are aware that companies under 100 employees (and sometimes more) are still considered small businesses within their particular fields. We are happy to consider those companies that face similar needs and challenges to our own.

Definition of a small business:
The SBC is governed by an advisory committee that would include members of the Regional Board and include diverse representation of the Chamber’s membership. This committee is commissioned by the Regional Board, and assisted by Chamber staff, to develop the SBC’s purpose, objectives, membership, activities, events, etc.

Get involved with the Small Business Council through these programs:
- Small Business Council Connection - Click here to learn more
- Small Business Roundtable

Key Action Items: (approved by the SBC Advisory Committee)
-Offering Small Business networking events. The purpose of these networking events is to draw together small business owners/entrepreneurs, offering the opportunity to share businesses successes, discuss concerns and challenges and socialize in an informal setting. Typically, a keynote speaker will share some “secrets of success” and how a chamber (and small business council) can benefit small business. Also at this time, input on and ideas for our small business council will be solicited from attendees. As always, these networking events are free and open to all Chamber members.
-Researching ways to provide education and information on local resources to benefit small businesses. We also offer seminars on pertinent topics recommended by our members through periodic surveys. Some seminar topics offered include: Gaining Government Contracting, Email, Social, & Internet Marketing, Blogging and Direct Mail Marketing.
-Publishing a “Small Business Spotlight” on a quarterly basis in the e-Connect newsletter; spotlighting a member business throughout the Chamber’s service area, highlighting unique business approach and successes.
-Partnering with York Technical College, Winthrop University's Small Business Development Center, and other local entities to provide quality programs and services to meet the needs of our members/community.

The Small Business Council is made up of a dedicated group of volunteer business owners/managers who meet monthly to discuss topics on how to better serve the small business environment. Additionally, individuals representing York Technical College, South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (SCMEP), the Small Business Development Center at Winthrop University, and the Catawba Regional Council of Governments also serve with the Council. The Council meets the 2nd Friday of each month at the York County Regional Chamber offices. The Council solicits ideas, comments, and suggestions from the small business community.
The meetings are open to any small business concern.

If you would like to join us in presenting your concern or ideas, please contact Christine Young via email or at 803-324-7500.


Small Business Council's 2013 Advisory Board Members

Chair: Seth Zamek - Senior Helpers 
Ed DeBruyne - Habitat For Humanity ReStore
Edie Dille – York Technical College
David Douglas - Metrolina Diversified
Freddy Faircloth - James C. Hardin III LLC
Dr. Jessica Harden - Providence Chiropractic
Rhonda Huskins – South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership
Bill Meyer - City of Rock Hill - Open for Business
Randy Pellisero - Catawba Regional Council of Government
Patti Petersen - Periwinkle Cafe & Bakery
Eddie Pickett - Quality Cleaning Janitorial Services
Judy Pinner - Preferred Billing & Management Services Inc.
Larry Stevens – Small Business Development Center at Winthrop University 
Emily Walker - Bridge Interpreting Services