CROWN POINT – The Northwest Indiana Small Business Development Center has joined forces with the Starke County Economic Development Foundation to strengthen the small business community in Starke and Pulaski counties.

            “The efforts of the SBDC coupled with the Small Business Center will enhance our ability to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and small business people in Starke and Pulaski counties,” said Charles Weaver, executive director of the foundation. “Our mission is to work with the local guys who want to get started in business along with the area’s big businesses.”

            LeAnn McCrum, regional director of the Northwest Indiana SBDC, said the partnership is an opportunity for both agencies to be stronger assets to residents.

            “It is our intention to do a better job serving Starke and Pulaski counties this year. In the past limited resources have presented the NWI SBDC from having a strong presence in either county,” said McCrum. “Together we will be able to provide more resources to the communities than either one could individually.”

            The foundation’s Ron Gifford will work directly with clients as a business advisor. He practiced law for 32 years and sees the collaboration as a way to further serve small business owners.