Small Business and Entrepreneurship Conference Slated for February

A&M-Commerce's College of Business and Entrepreneurship will host its third annual Small Business and Entrepreneurship Conference (SBECON) on Feb. 19, 2014, in the Rayburn Student Center. The theme of the conference is “Celebrating Entrepreneurship in Northeast Texas: Lessons from the Past and Opportunities for the Future.”

The conference will include four sessions, including several panel presentations and workshops on topics such as internet marketing, financing and tax strategies. A&M-Commerce students will also present business concepts in the pitch competition Idea Xplosion. SBECON will conclude with the announcement of the first honorees of the Academy of Entrepreneurs, which recognizes successful entrepreneurs in Northeast Texas—including A&M-Commerce alumni. Attendees are invited to participate in a networking session with presenters and the academy's inductees during the conference's closing reception.

SBECON 2014 is A&M-Commerce's contribution to the National Entrepreneurship Week celebration that will occur Feb. 15 – 22 across the U.S. The conference is a part of the university's effort to use its capabilities and resources to support, encourage and enhance economic development in the region. The North Texas Small Business Development Center, the Red River Regional Business Incubator, Oxford Photography, Oncor and the economic development corporations of Paris, Greenville, Sulphur Springs, Farmersville and Commerce are the conference's sponsors.

Early registration for SBECON is now open. Individuals may register for $35; the fee for A&M-Commerce faculty, staff, students and alumni is $25. Attendees may rent booths or tables for $100. Prices will increase after early registration closes Feb. 9.

For more information about SBECON and details about registration, call Tammie Bellotte at 903-886-5703.