
By: Deniece Griffin
Photos by: Donovan Mitchell
A memorable event unfolded at Georgia State University when the Deputy Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) Dilawar Syed visited the downtown Atlanta campus Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024. After a warm welcome from the Robinson College of Business Dean, Richard Phillips, others from the various SBA Regions delivered remarks. This was followed up by remarks from SBA’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Area Director, Kathy Plisko, who shared the support that is avail available on Georgia State’s campus to all members of the local community.
The morning commenced with a fireside chat featuring the Deputy Administrator and the Director (interim) of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Institute (ENI), David Forquer, offering a unique opportunity to explore the current entrepreneurial landscape at Georgia State. The Deputy Administrator showcased the breadth of SBA programs, underlining the agency’s commitment to supporting small businesses. Special attention was given to the on-campus Small Business Development Center (SBDC), which plays a pivotal role in assisting local entrepreneurs.
The highlight of the morning was the Administrator’s soliciting questions from those in attendance regarding the SBA’s initiatives in promoting inclusivity and diversity within the innovation ecosystem. He discussed how the SBA has adapted its support and resources to help small businesses thrive in the ever-changing landscape of technology and innovation. He also highlighted how small business owners forge partnerships and collaborations within the innovation ecosystem, and how the SBA can facilitate these connections.
Deputy Administrator Syed offered key insights on the forthcoming undertakings that the Small Business Administration intends to implement to augment its assistance for small businesses in the innovation space.
The SBA Deputy Administrator’s visit was more than a stop on his Atlanta tour, but vibrant exchange that left a lasting impression on the Georgia State University community.