10/09/2026
Today in my Ivy Tech ENT 100 Entrepreneurial Mindset class, we welcomed Sharon Harvey, Economic Development Specialist with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
She shared valuable information about what it takes to start, grow, and sustain a business, from developing a business plan and understanding startup costs to navigating legal requirements, accessing capital, and exploring government contracting opportunities.
One of the biggest takeaways was the importance of using the resources available to you. Entrepreneurs don’t have to figure everything out on their own. The SBA and its resource partners offer free or low-cost business counseling, training, and guidance to help business owners make informed decisions.
We also discussed common business mistakes, the importance of financial preparation, and why having a strong team of professionals matters. As Sharon reminded us, every entrepreneur should have their BAIL: a Banker, Accountant, Insurance professional, and Lawyer.
I’m grateful to Sharon for investing her time in our students and helping them better understand the resources available to support their entrepreneurial journeys.
Entrepreneurship is more than having a good idea. It’s about understanding your market, planning strategically, managing your finances, and knowing where to turn for support.
Thank you, Sharon Harvey and the SBA, for helping our future entrepreneurs build their business knowledge and confidence.