You have ambitious goals but don’t always have the direction or connections to get there. The SBDC can be your go-to resource to build a strong framework. We partner closely with banks, chambers of commerce, economic development organizations and others across southeast Wisconsin to match your specific needs. The Small Business Development Center supports entrepreneurs and business owners through no-cost, confidential consulting and educational programs. Our SBDC staff facilitates improvement and growth for small and mid-sized companies and helps launch successful new ventures. Through our UW-Milwaukee office we serve owners in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington counties and beyond.
Do you need consulting services for growth and expansion? Please fill out an electronic Assistance Request Form.
Do you need help getting started? Please explore the free online training which helps you organize your ideas and create your action plan. We also offer complimentary resources to help start and grow your business.
Wisconsin SBDC Network Core Services:
- Business planning and startup
- Management and strategic planning
- Finance and capital access
- Marketing and sales growth
- Market research and data
Milwaukee SBDC
- 330 clients served
- 23 businesses started
- 2123 jobs impacted
- $2.9 Million in capital infusion to small businesses
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My SBDC counselor literally changed the scope of my business, because she had so much information and knowledge.
Trueman McGee
Funky Fresh Spring Rolls
About Us
Cheryl Mitchell
Center Director
Cheryl’s areas of expertise include small business advice for food, fashion and service businesses. Those who are lucky enough to …
read moreCheryl’s areas of expertise include small business advice for food, fashion and service businesses. Those who are lucky enough to work with Cheryl know she is calm and easy-going, but still no-nonsense. She’ll deliver tough love when it’s needed and praise when it’s warranted. Though she has learned to lead the horse to water, if it doesn’t want to drink, she won’t force it!
One of Cheryl’s favorite parts of the job is when the lightbulb goes on for a client. Most clients have a blind spot, and she’ll keep shining the light until they “get it.” Once the lightbulb flashes, the goal becomes real and the client will do what it takes to get it done. It doesn’t matter if it’s a business plan, financial projections, making the sale, writing the marketing copy, hiring or firing. The moment the client makes that move is the most rewording for her.
The most meaningful time with a client for Cheryl is when the client becomes coachable and they’re receptive to all she, as the advisor, has to offer. She also finds it gratifying when the client obtains a loan or equity investment. Their excitement is contagious!
Outside of work, Cheryl is very involved in her community – making sure people have what they need. So many go hungry, are cold or don’t have anyone who tells them they matter. The community work she does let’s people know they matter. Personally, she loves hosting dinner parties and making sure everyone’s heart, head, soul and belly are full when they leave. And laughter. Lots of laughter. Cheryl believes you can get through anything when you can smile through it because you know you matter to somebody.
Education:
- BBA, Finance, Investments and Banking, UW-Madison
- MBA, Strategy, MIT-Sloan School of Management
Athena Agoudemos
Business Consultant
Athena’s areas of expertise are strategic planning, conflict resolution, financial management and project management. She is an engaged listener and …
read moreAthena’s areas of expertise are strategic planning, conflict resolution, financial management and project management. She is an engaged listener and creative problem solver who guides clients to take manageable and strategic steps forward in support of their goals. She loves connecting clients to meaningful resources and opportunities to advance their business goals. Helping clients with understanding their financials and the impact of setting budgets is very meaningful to Athena.
Running is her medicine and she is a student of Design Thinking. Athena enjoys reading, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in political science, UW-Milwaukee
- Studies in international relations and conflict resolution
Success Stories
The SBDC is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact: Program Manager, Jason E. Mueller, 161 W. Wisconsin Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53203, 414-227-3129. The SBDC program does not deny admission or participation in programs or services because of a person's race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, disability, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy, maternal or parental status.