August 18, 2021
USU Blanding Business Package

Blanding, UT - The Utah State University Blanding campus has received a USDA Rural Business Development Grant to strengthen local businesses and artisans in San Juan County. The program will offer 15 free business development packages and begins August  1.

“We know that the pandemic has had a deep and serious impact on businesses and artisans in San Juan County,” said Meghan McFall, director of the USU Blanding Small Business Development Center. “Local businesses need support and USU is dedicated to developing programs that address real needs in practical, actionable ways.”

Selected applicants will receive one of three business development packages including the Artisan Package, the Small Business Expansion and Retention Package and the Emerging Start-Ups Package.

Each package includes one-on-one business consultations to develop a unique business strategy. Businesses will then receive support in licensing and training to support the strategic plan. Business owners and employees can enroll in up to $2,000 worth of non-credit training courses offered through USU, which cover a wide range of topics including business management, productivity, applied digital skills, human resources and mental health. 

As part of each package, businesses receive 3-months of unlimited access to USU Blanding’s new Community Incubator & Coworking Space, a state-of-the-art facility that offers professional meeting and individual working space, equipment check out, and printing services. 

Since local artists often fall outside of the parameters for COVID relief, USU will give preference to artisan applicants. All interested businesses are encouraged to apply, and applications will be open from July 1 to Jan. 1 or until filled. Businesses who are not selected may purchase a business development package which includes the same resources and support as those offered through the program.

“This program offers an amazing opportunity for business owners to collaborate with our talented team at the Small Business Development Center at no cost to themselves,” said McFall. “We are so excited to work with local business owners to help preserve the economic stability and the vibrant artistic culture of San Juan County.”

For more information about the available packages or to apply to the program, contact Meghan McFall at meghan.mcfall@usu.edu, by calling (435) 678-8102, or by visiting the USU SPARC, 238 N 100 E, Blanding, Ut 84511.