Jefferson County entrepreneurs and small business owners now have more convenient access to free professional business advising, thanks to an expansion by Central Oregon Community College's Small Business Development Center.
The COCC SBDC — which has long provided business consulting services out of its Bend headquarters — announced this fall that it is establishing recurring in-person advising hours in four communities across the region: Redmond, Madras, Prineville, and Sisters. The goal is to bring business support directly to where entrepreneurs live and work, eliminating the time and distance barrier that has historically required a trip to Bend for in-person help.
What the SBDC Offers — At No Cost
The Small Business Development Center provides no-cost, confidential one-on-one advising to business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs at every stage. Whether someone is exploring a business idea for the first time or running an established operation looking to grow, expand, or plan for succession, the SBDC offers tailored guidance. Services include:
- Business plan development and review
- Financial analysis and loan preparation
- Marketing strategy and market research
- Human resources and operations guidance
- Access to capital, SBA loan programs, and grant research
- Business acquisition and exit planning
SBDC advisors are working professionals with real-world experience. All advising is strictly confidential. The program is funded in part through the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Oregon SBDC Network, which is why services are provided free to clients.
Why It Matters for Jefferson County
For Madras and the broader Jefferson County community, the expansion addresses a meaningful gap. The county supports a diverse small business ecosystem — agriculture, retail, food service, construction, trades, and services — but the nearest consistent professional business advising was previously a 45-minute-or-more drive to Bend.
Having an SBDC advisor available locally lowers the barrier for business owners who are already stretched thin with time. It also aligns well with COCC Madras campus's broader growth, which earlier this year included the opening of a $22 million expansion featuring healthcare workforce training programs and a childcare center — all investments in Jefferson County's economic future.
"Our goal is to bring business support to where people live and work. Entrepreneurs in Madras shouldn't have to drive to Bend to get the help they need to start or grow a business."
How to Schedule an Appointment
Business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs interested in meeting with an SBDC advisor — including through the new Madras location — can visit cocc.edu/sbdc or call the COCC SBDC office to set up a consultation. All first appointments are free and confidential, with no obligation.
For more information on COCC programs available at the Madras campus, visit cocc.edu/departments/madras or stop by the campus at 1170 East Ashwood Road.