Are you thinking of starting a new business...or does your small business need an extra boost? A small business development center (SBDC) might be exactly the resource you need to move things to the next level. Erie, PA SBDC Director Maggie Horne joined Janelle and Lori for an informative discussion that outlined first steps to starting a business, important questions to consider when taking a risk, and how connecting with a center such as the SBDC can guide you along the way. (And learn how she helped a billionaire start a local business.)

If you are a small-business owner or if you are thinking of becoming one, this is a podcast you won't want to miss.

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About Maggie Horne:

Margaret (Maggie) U. Horne, MBA, CVA is the Director of Gannon University Small Business Development Center.  Maggie earned an associate’s and a bachelor’s degree in business administration with concentration in marketing and management from Penn State University, and her MBA from Point Park University.  She is also an Certified Valuation Analyst. Her background includes experience in law, accounting, education and business valuation. Maggie co-launched the first independent valuation firm in Western Pennsylvania where she consulted with numerous clients, including Microsoft, UPS, Ford, Proctor & Gamble, and Caterpillar.  She was involved in over 50 mergers and acquisitions. Maggie developed and conducted numerous presentations related to business valuation and competitive intelligence.

Maggie has published articles and presented locally and nationally on topics including competitive intelligence, business valuation and business management.  She has also taught a variety of courses for colleges and universities. The first six years with the SBDC, Maggie provided general consulting services to pre-venture clients and existing businesses in Mercer County and specialized business valuation consulting services to clients in Erie, Warren, Crawford and Mercer counties.  She served as Manager of Business Consulting prior to her appointment as Director of the Center. Maggie currently provides strategic planning and valuation services for SBDC clients.