Small Business Specialist

Guilford County•Suite 3201, NC

20h•Onsite

About The Position

The Small Business Specialist is responsible for supporting the growth, development, and sustainability of small businesses throughout Guilford County. This position provides technical assistance, outreach, certification guidance, program coordination, and business development resources to entrepreneurs and firms seeking to compete for contracting opportunities. The Small Business Specialist serves as a key liaison between the County, business community, partner organizations, and stakeholders to advance economic inclusion, supplier diversity, and entrepreneurship initiatives aligned with Guilford County’s strategic priorities.

Requirements

Knowledge of small business development, entrepreneurship ecosystems, and economic inclusion strategies.
Ability to build effective relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to organize projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
Ability to analyze data and prepare reports.
Strong customer service and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and business management software systems.
Bachelor's Degree with an emphasis in Business or Public Administration or related field and two years of experience in the inclusions, purchasing, economic development or other related field; or an Associate's Degree with four (4) years of experience in the inclusions, purchasing, economic development, or other related field.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of procurement practices and supplier diversity programs preferred.

Responsibilities

Provides direct assistance to small businesses regarding start-up, expansion, operations, and growth strategies.
Collaborates with County departments and the diverse business community to communicate, educate, and engage stakeholders in meeting Policy objectives around certification and registration of business enterprises
Identify and implement projects that support capacity building, identification of emerging industries, and cultivation and promotion of small businesses.
Track multiple project activities against milestones and timelines and develop a communication protocol for reporting project progress.
Educates businesses on County procurement processes, vendor registration, and contracting opportunities.
Assist firms with certification applications and compliance requirements.
Provides strategic recommendations, along with specific actions, to increase certifications, vendor registrations , and spending opportunities.
Coordinates workshops, seminars, networking events, and training programs for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Conducts outreach to underserved business communities to increase participation in County opportunities.
Develops and maintains relationships with chambers of commerce, business associations, lenders, resource providers, and community partners.
Tracks client interactions, program participation, and performance metrics using databases and reporting tools.
Prepares reports, presentations, correspondence, and recommendations for leadership.
Supports implementation of supplier diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Research grants, funding opportunities, and best practices related to entrepreneurship and economic development.
Assists with special projects and strategic initiatives as assigned.
Ability to execute a project from idea to deliverable.
Ability to perform KPI and data trend analysis.
Ability to creatively adapt to various situations and environmental changes.
Represents the Department at meetings, workshops, and seminars, among others.
Other duties as assigned.