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Business plans, government compliance, marketing communications…the requirements of starting and running a private enterprise are complex and often confusing. But businesses in Jefferson County do not have to go it alone. They have access to a free resource — the Jefferson County Business Resource Center [JCBRC], directed by Denise Stephens. JCBRC helps businesses navigate myriad demands by providing access to resources and comprehensive services.
Stephens single-handedly runs the JCBRC, which started in June 2006 and is government funded. Her background has given her a deep understanding and empathy for the challenges businesses face. She has run several entrepreneurial businesses, from writing services to an espresso café, as well as worked for private enterprises and government entities.
Getting assistance from the JCBRC typically starts with a face-to-face, one-hour meeting with Stephens. "Lots of people are looking for financial help right now," she says. Often, these are businesses that do not meet loan requirements. "We help them look at alternatives: where they can cut costs, increase revenues, and find other sources of funding such as equity or family members."
During this confidential meeting, Stephens reviews the company's business plan, financial information and marketing materials. "I look at their marketing pieces and website from an elementary perspective," she says. "I tell them the impression I get and offer basic suggestions on how to communicate with their market."
The JCBRC also offers businesses powerful demographic data and highly specified contact lists for targeted marketing. Many other useful tools are available online at www.jeffcobrc.org.
At home, Stephens loves cooking and creating nutritional recipes. As a member of the Jefferson County Community Development Advisory Board, she helps decide which nonprofits receive community block grants and HOME funds.
"It's extremely rewarding," Stephens says. "The grants go directly to entities that help low to moderate income people."
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Local Vacation — A getaway with her husband to Table Mountain Inn.
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Published in the West Chamber Resource Guide 2009 Best of Business Directory & Magazine, an annual publication of The West Chamber Serving Jefferson County.
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