Agenda - 10-21-2008 -4f - Laserfiche WebLink

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NORTH CAROLINA ORANGE COUNTY THIS AGREEMENT, made and entered into the 15th day of November, 2008, by and between Orange County, North Carolina, 200 S. Cameron Street, Hillsborough, North Carolina, hereinafter referred to as "County" and North Carolina State University for and on behalf of its Small Business and Technology Development Center, 5 West Hargett Street, Suite 600, Raleigh, North Carolina 27601- 1348, hereinafter referred to as the "SBTDC". WITNESSETH: WHEREAS, the on-going work of the Orange County SBTDC is consistent with the Orange County Economic Development Strategic Plan; and WHEREAS, the work of the Orange County SBTDC, the development of more comprehensive small business information, and a public awareness and educational program on the services available to small business, is an integral part of meeting the objectives specified in the Orange County Economic Development Strategic Plan; and WHEREAS, the Orange County Economic Development Commission, hereinafter referred to as the EDC, has endorsed the Orange County SBTDC concept, and has encouraged the County's support, financial and otherwise; and WHEREAS, the EDC is an agency of the County; and WHEREAS, economic development is an important public purpose which can be aided by contributions of Orange County funds; and WHEREAS, Orange County supports the Economic Development Strategic Plan, and public- private initiatives to implement the Plan. Now, therefore, in consideration of the above and the mutual covenants and considerations hereinafter set forth, the County and the SBTDC agree as follows: First, in consideration of the EDCs on-going support, the SBTDC will maintain a regional office in Orange County. This will consist, at minimum, of the presence of three professional staff members in the County. Second, the SBTDC will make its general business consulting services and more specialized services and counseling in the areas of international trade, technology development, and government procurement (including Pro-Bid) available to small firms and would-be entrepreneurs throughout the County. Where appropriate SBTDC will work with specific clients referred by the EDC. Third, the SBTDC will provide access to an electronic business resource and referral database (e.g. directories, specialized software such as ProfitCents, a business benchmarking & financials comparison program) and other business start-up and assistance resources at no charge to the businesses. Fourth, the SBTDC will continue to develop and offer with the EDC and other sponsors a variety of training programs both for small business firms and for those who serve small businesses (such as bankers). These will be scheduled as requested /needed throughout the term of this agreement. An ongoing focus during the term of this contract shall continue to be assistance to female and minority owned businesses.