Small Business Center receives $5,000 grant from Bank OZK
Randolph Community College’s Small Business Center (SBC) has been awarded a $5,000 grant from Bank OZK to support expanded outreach and technical assistance for entrepreneurs and small businesses across Randolph County.
“We are grateful for Bank OZK’s continued partnership and investment in Randolph County’s economic future,” RCC President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan said. “This funding aligns perfectly with our Strategic Plan Imperatives of Access, Connection, Experience, and Success. By expanding technical assistance and outreach, we are supporting small businesses, helping to build stronger communities, and creating opportunities for long-term economic growth.”
According to the grant acceptance letter, “Funding will support continued outreach and technical assistance in Randolph County,” with a focus on reaching underserved communities and providing educational resources that help local entrepreneurs thrive.
“Transportation and access remain significant barriers for many aspiring business owners,” Director of the RCC Small Business Center Quinton Louris said. “With this grant, we can bring resources directly to those who need them most — right where they are.”
The funding will enhance the SBC’s mobile classroom initiative, enabling the center to deliver on-site technical assistance, financial literacy workshops, and entrepreneurship resources throughout the county. This includes direct collaboration with Bank OZK employees, who will lead sessions on topics such as credit building, loan readiness, and financial planning.
Last year, the SBC supported 27 new business starts, helped create 63 jobs, and provided 401 clients with nearly 360 hours of counseling and 40 events reaching 270 attendees. The grant will help build on that success by:
- Expanding the reach of the SBC mobile unit to underserved areas,
- Hosting technical assistance workshops in collaboration with Bank OZK,
- Increasing student engagement with financial literacy and entrepreneurship programs,
- Developing bilingual marketing materials to reach a broader audience.
For more information, visit http://rccurl.com/sbc or contact Louris at qlouris@randolph.edu or 336-633-0240.
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About Randolph Community College’s Small Business Center: Randolph Community College’s Small Business Center empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners across Randolph County with free counseling, workshops, and resources designed to launch, grow, and sustain successful enterprises. Offering expert guidance in business planning, marketing, financial management, and more, the Center serves as a vital hub for training, referrals, and community connections. Led by Director Quinton Louris, the Small Business Center is committed to increasing the success rate of local businesses and strengthening the region’s economic development. For more information, visit http://rccurl.com/sbc.
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About Randolph Community College: Randolph Community College (RCC), under the leadership of President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan, is committed to providing relevant career training and educational opportunities. Ranked No. 1 in North Carolina by Niche.com, the College offers affordable degrees and short-term certificate programs that start throughout the year, both in person and online. To register, visit randolph.edu/register or call 336-633-0200 and expect to engage with the most competent and compassionate team of faculty and staff.