PRESENTER: Presenter
Jeff Jewell, Director of Economic & Community Development
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SUBJECT: Title
Public hearing, discussion, and possible action to approve an expenditure, of up to $250,000, to SPARK Small Business Center to assist with the operation of an economic development program and job training initiatives, pursuant to 501.102 of the Texas Local Government Code.
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DEPARTMENT: Economic & Community Development
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COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
SPARK Small Business Center (SPARK) supports and develops the small business environment by providing advising, training, referrals, and business development services in support of the community’s economic development plan.
In 2011, SPARK joined with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) of University of Texas at San Antonio’s Institute for Economic Development to establish the Small Business Development satellite center in New Braunfels. The center is staffed by a Certified Business Advisor and a Program Specialist and offers integrated services to meet the needs of small businesses in the New Braunfels area.
As part of the required reporting, SPARK representatives will provide quarterly written updates and two in-person presentations (Q2 and Q4) to the NBEDC Board. The updates and presentations will include the number of business plans created, new business starts, number of jobs created, number of jobs retained, and the amount of financing closed. Additional reporting metrics include updates on events, training, marketing, or any other supplemental work furthering the support of small business in the area.
If approved, this item will go to City Council for final approval in late November or early December.
ISSUE:
The SPARK Small Business center contract expired September 30, 2026 and a new one-year contract is being proposed for consideration.
STRATEGIC PLAN REFERENCE:
☒Economic Mobility ☐Enhanced Connectivity ☐Community Identity
☐Organizational Excellence ☐Community Well-Being ☐N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
The funding request of $250,000 provides the amount estimated to operate the center for one year. The amount includes utilities, rent, marketing, operating expenses, and contingency allowances to operate the center at the West San Antonio Street location.
Recommendation
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the one-year contract with SPARK Small Business Center.