Business Development Specialist

About the role

ADVOCAP, Inc., is an established, recognized leader with over 60 years of experience in delivering effective anti-poverty and self-sufficiency programs and services. We are a private, nonprofit Community Action Agency committed to our mission of "creating opportunities for people and communities to reduce poverty and increase self-sufficiency." Business Development Specialist Fond du Lac This full-time economic development position will assist low-income entrepreneurs in realizing their business creation and expansion goals. The Business Development Specialist will engage business-focused individuals in developing their business plan, including their business or self-employment vision, business structure, product or service research, competition assessment, multi-year financial revenue and expense projections, and economic viability. Working with economic development partners and lenders, the Business Development Specialist will facilitate access to needed capital to augment loan options available through ADVOCAP.

Responsibilities

• Reaching out to the community and potential entrepreneurs
• Develop strong, trusting partnerships with lenders and economic development organizations
• Prepare or assist individuals to translate ideas and dreams into viable business plans
• Assist entrepreneurs in preparing loan applications, for internal and external loan resources
• Provide on-going technical assistance to business clients
• Connect business clients to training, accounting systems, and potential employees
• Keep regular contact with businesses and assist with resolving emerging business concerns
• Maintain records of business client interactions and case management
• Assist the Department Director in completing timely statistical reports to funders
• Work within funding source guidelines and ADVOCAP's Policies and Corporate Values

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree or equivalent in experience with at least three years in the workforce in banking/finance, business ownership, sales, grant writing/planning, consulting, or similar occupations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Knowledge of resources to assist entrepreneurs
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office Suite and common business software
• Solid, reliable work history in a professional capacity
• An understanding of the causes and conditions of poverty and ability to be nonjudgemental
• Reliable transportation, a valid driver's license, and acceptable background check