SBDC Business Consultant / Program Coordinator

Penn State University • University Park, IL

1d • $61,800 - $102,300 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Business Consultant/Program Coordinator serves as a key connector between rural residents, entrepreneurs, small business owners, partner organizations, and the resources available through the Rural Innovation Network (RIN). This role blends business advising, outreach, program support, and relationship-building to expand economic opportunity and improve access to services across rural communities, to expand the reach and impact of RIN programs.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
• 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Strong communication, interviewing, and active listening skills.
• Ability to analyze business challenges and recommend actionable solutions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, cloud-based applications, CRM systems, and virtual meeting tools.
• Strong problem‑solving capabilities and sound professional judgment.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple client relationships or community partnerships.
• Ability to travel across rural communities and partner locations.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings or weekends for workshops and community events.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s Degree in Business Administration, or related fields such as community development, public administration, agriculture, entrepreneurship, or strategic communications.
• Experience working with rural communities or rural-focused programs.
• Familiarity with small business support, financial documentation, training delivery, or entrepreneurship pathways.
• Knowledge of local economic drivers such as agriculture, outdoor recreation, or small manufacturing.
• Experience in business advising, community outreach, education, and program coordination with an SBDC.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized assistance to entrepreneurs and small business owners, including business planning, financial projections, loan packaging, market analysis, and operational planning.
• Conduct intake interviews, assess needs, and maintain consistent communication with clients.
• Assist clients in understanding capital needs and preparing business documentation.
• Support planning and delivery of RIN workshops, training sessions, outreach events, and resource navigation across multiple rural counties.
• Maintain case files, client milestones, and service records in CRM systems.
• Monitor client progress and recommend next steps, technical assistance, or partner referrals.
• Build strong relationships with local stakeholders including Chambers of Commerce, lenders, community groups, municipalities, and workforce agencies.
• Participate in community events, meetings, and public engagement activities to increase awareness of RIN services.
• Respond to inquiries from residents or partners seeking program information or assistance.
• Identify new partners and strengthen existing relationships to expand access to rural economic and business resources.
• Collaborate with higher education partners, extension services, entrepreneurship programs, and regional development organizations.
• Attend and represent RIN at multi-organization meetings focused on rural challenges and opportunities.
• Contribute to the development of workshops and training materials for rural entrepreneurs and small businesses.
• Lead or facilitate training sessions on business fundamentals, financial literacy, sector-specific opportunities, and rural resource navigation.
• Assist in coordinating educational programming across rural counties and satellite locations.
• Complete required client and activity reporting in CRM systems in a timely manner.
• Document all interactions, services provided, referrals, and outcomes.
• Participate in team meetings, internal training, and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time
• 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level