WISE Women's Business Center · 12 hours ago
Small Business Counselor
Syracuse, NY
Contract
Hybrid
Senior Level
$65/hr - $65/hr
5+ years expWISE Women's Business Center is dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs through training and counseling. The Small Business Counselor will provide support in business planning and access to capital, leveraging expertise in small business lending and fostering relationships with local lenders.
Business DevelopmentConsulting
Responsibilities
Provide one-on-one coaching and mentoring for up to 12 program participants
Guide participants with well-vetted business ideas or recently launched businesses through the complete business planning process
Create an inclusive learning environment that encourages participation, collaboration, and practical application of concepts
Work closely with the Program Manager to review and refine curriculum on an ongoing basis
Collaborate on program evaluation activities, including after-action reviews, instructor surveys, and participant interviews
Provide individualized counseling to WISE clients seeking business financing
Assess client readiness for various financing options and guide them through the preparation process
Review and provide feedback on loan applications, financial projections, and supporting documentation
Help clients understand and navigate the requirements of different financing products
Maintain comprehensive knowledge of SBA loan products, including 7(a), 504, and microloans
Stay current on SBA lending requirements, eligibility criteria, and application processes
Serve as a bridge between clients and SBA lenders
Maintain strong relationships with SBA-approved lenders and community lenders in the Syracuse/Central New York area
Stay informed about lending criteria, preferences, and processes of local financial institutions
Connect clients with appropriate lenders based on their specific needs and qualifications
Track changes in the local and regional lending landscape
Help clients identify the most appropriate financing options for their business stage and needs
Explain alternative financing options beyond traditional bank loans (CDFIs, microloans, grants, etc.)
Prepare clients for lender meetings and assist with pitch preparation
Provide follow-up support throughout the financing process
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in business, finance, entrepreneurship, or related field, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
Minimum 5 years of experience in small business lending, community development finance, or business counseling
Demonstrated expertise in business planning and financial analysis
Strong knowledge of SBA loan products and community lending programs
Understanding of credit evaluation and common barriers to loan approval
Experience delivering training or facilitating workshops
Excellent presentation and public speaking skills
Strong interpersonal skills with ability to build rapport with diverse entrepreneurs
Proficiency with financial software and business planning tools
Preferred
Previous experience as a small business owner or entrepreneur
Background in banking, commercial lending, SBA lending, or CDFI work
Experience with cohort-based training programs
Established relationships with lenders in the Central New York region
Knowledge of resources available to small businesses in New York State
Knowledge of public and private grant opportunities for small businesses
Bilingual (English/Spanish)
Experience working with entrepreneurs from underserved communities
Company
WISE Women's Business Center
The WISE Women’s Business Center was established in 2006, funded by a grant through the U.S.
2-10 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageTotal Funding
unknownKey Investors
Empire State Development
2024-02-27Grant
Recent News
2025-04-26
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