12 Days of Profs: Shay Iacoponelli ’91 – Empowering Entrepreneurs Through the SBDC

With a diverse background in the technology and banking industries, Shay Iacoponelli brings a wealth of business advice to the table. Currently serving at the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Bryan, Texas, Shay shares her expertise in helping entrepreneurs succeed. As the first Prof-for-a-Day of the semester, she introduced the invaluable resources available to new entrepreneurs through the SBDC, along with her personal insights gained from working with businesses across various industries.

Having grown up in a rural community, Shay has long understood the powerful impact small businesses can have on local economies. She emphasizes, “In rural communities, a new business start can be transformative.” While large corporations are often seen as the primary drivers of the economy, small businesses actually represent 99% of all businesses in the U.S., contributing 64% of new net jobs​. Despite their vital role, starting and maintaining a small business can be a daunting task.

This is where the SBDC proves to be a game-changer. As a government-funded entity, the SBDC offers free services to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. By leveraging market research tools and receiving expert business advice from professionals like Shay, entrepreneurs can set themselves up for success. In the past six months alone, Shay has helped 151 clients, assisted in the launch of 23 new businesses, and facilitated $4 million in capital infusion, leading to the creation of 66 new jobs​.

A key challenge in launching a new business is securing financing. Shay explains that regardless of the financing option chosen, it is essential to present your business idea as viable and well-researched. By developing a detailed business plan—one that includes thorough market research and accurate financial projections—you can demonstrate the feasibility of your idea. Throughout her banking career, Shay encountered many clients who were unprepared to discuss their numbers when seeking a loan. At the SBDC, she has helped countless clients refine their business plans and financials, preparing them for successful meetings with bankers and potential investors.

With nearly 1,000 SBDC centers nationwide, this resource is essential for small business owners across the country​. Entrepreneurship can be both challenging and rewarding, and as the first Prof-for-a-Day, Shay reminds us that we don’t have to navigate this journey alone.