Widener’s Small Business Development Center took on Freeman Cultural Arts (FCA) as a client in January of 2007.  Since that time, Widener’s SBDC has assisted FCA through an extremely difficult period, enabling us to successfully transition to a compact, competitive operation in spite of today’s economic challenges.

Jim Porter, SBDC Consulting Manager, and his amazing team have been instrumental in helping FCA to assess, reorganize and improve our operations. When former practices were determined as unprofitable, more productive methods were developed and implemented with the help of the SBDC team.

The SBDC classes in Strategic Marketing and Financial Planning have also proven to be invaluable.

In 2008 it became painfully evident that in order for the business to survive, it was essential to close our downtown Chester gallery location, and a virtual gallery was created on the Internet. We were shown how technology could play a major role in revitalizing our efforts and increasing our audience to international markets at a minimal cost. Not only did we obtain sales from untapped regional communities, we also gained sales from art students at universities, in need of the supplies and equipment from the gallery inventory. We even received an inquiry from an artist in mainland China!

We now offer a variety of newly released “Obama Art” selections, suitable for the home, office or classrooms. Thereby, we have also created our own version of a “stimulus package”!

Locally, FCA will exhibit at various community sites, as well as at The Nia Center located at 214 Reaney Streets, where the sales benefit the children’s programs. During the summer, we will setup at Art Festivals, especially at the shore.

As a small business owner, I know that I could not afford to have paid for the professional support received through the SBCD and know that we are truly blessed to have access to this vital resource in our community. I thank Widener and the staff of the Small Business Development Center and highly recommend their services to others!!!

Delores Freeman-Clybourn

Editor's Note:  Be sure to visit Freeman Cultural Arts on the web at:  www.FreemanCulturalArts.com