News Topic: Community Engagement

Indian River State College Foundation Veterans Clay Shoot Raises $80,000 for Student-Veterans
OKEECHOBEE, Fla. (February 19, 2026) — The Indian River State College Foundation (IRSC Foundation) hosted its annual Veterans Clay Shoot on February 13, 2026, at OK Corral Gun Club in Okeechobee, Florida, raising $80,000 to support student-veterans and military families enrolled at Indian River State College (The River), the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee’s public college and one of Florida’s premier state colleges.
A participant takes aim during the IRSC Foundation Veterans Clay Shoot
The event was presented by Gilbert’s Family of Companies and drew more than 120 participants competing across 30+ teams. Funds raised will be directed to The River’s Military and Veterans Services Department to provide financial support, career assistance, and day-to-day assistance for the college’s enrolled student-veterans.
Timothy E. Moore & Bert Culbreth
Event Overview
- Date: February 13, 2026
- Location: OK Corral Gun Club, Okeechobee, Florida
- Format: Sporting clays team competition, 30 teams, 120+ participants
- Funds Raised: $80,000
- Beneficiary: Indian River State College Military and Veterans Services Department
- Presenting Sponsor: Gilbert’s Family of Companies
The event began with breakfast and opening remarks from Indian River State College President Dr. Timothy E. Moore, followed by a mandatory safety briefing before a 9:00 a.m. shotgun start. A BBQ lunch, awards ceremony, and raffle followed the competition.
Competition Results
- Top Team: Williamson Cattle
- Individual Winners: Shawn Peters and James Anderson (tie)
- Winning Veteran: Larry Gegg
“Sponsor a Veteran” Program
Through the event’s “Sponsor a Veteran” initiative, seven student-veterans participated in the clay shoot at no cost, funded by donor contributions designated specifically for veteran participation. Twenty veterans also participated.
Annabel Robertson & Frank Libutti, former U.S. Marine Corps general
Quotes from Indian River State College Leadership
Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President, Indian River State College: “Eighty thousand dollars raised in a single morning is a powerful statement — not just about what we can do for our student-veterans, but about who we are as a community. These funds mean financial support, career assistance, and the kind of day-to-day help that allows a veteran to stay in school and finish what they started. That matters more than any of us can fully measure.”
Frank Libutti, Chairman of the Board of Directors, IRSC Foundation; Retired Lieutenant General, United States Marine Corps: “I’ve led Marines in some of the most demanding conditions imaginable. What I saw today was different — civilians standing up for veterans, not because they had to, but because they chose to. That kind of community commitment is what makes the difference between a veteran who struggles after service and one who thrives. Our student-veterans deserve exactly this.”
Annabel Robertson, JD, CFRE, Vice President, IRSC Foundation: “A college degree changes the trajectory of a life. For a veteran who has already given so much, it is our duty to help support the bridge between service and a civilian career. This event helps us make sure that bridge is there when they need it. At Indian River State College, we stand shoulder to shoulder with those who have stood for our nation.”
Bert Culbreth, Sponsor & Vice Chair, IRSC Foundation: “Supporting the men and women who have served our country is something we take seriously. This event brings our community together around a shared commitment to making sure veterans have every opportunity to succeed after service, and we’re proud to play a part in that.”
Event Sponsors
- Presenting Sponsor: Gilbert’s Family of Companies
- Supporting Sponsors: Airstron Mechanical; Brighton Ammunition; Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC; Crary Buchanan, PA; Dr. Timothy Moore; Everglades Equipment Group; Gilbert Experience, LLC; GlobalTech, Inc.; IKONIC Munitions; InjuredVeterans.com (Gordon & Partners); Jared Queen; Kimley-Horn; Level Four Financial; Nylacarb Corp.; Pace Machine & Tool, Inc.; Paul Jacquin & Sons, Inc., Seacoast Bank; SouthState Bank; Spiezle Architectural Group; Team Parks, Inc.; UES – Universal Engineering Sciences; Venergy Group / AutoBuilders; Verdex Construction; and Walpole, Inc.
For more information or to support Indian River State College student-veterans:
- Website: https://giving.irsc.edu/
- Contact: John Ramfjord, IRSC Foundation Sr. Development Director, 772-462-4786
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About Indian River State College (The River): Indian River State College serves Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offering high-quality, affordable education to over 24,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides more than 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and technical certificates. Visit irsc.edu.
About the IRSC Foundation: The Indian River State College Foundation provides educational opportunities through scholarships and program support. As the funding partner of Indian River State College, the Foundation works to ensure that quality education remains within reach for all students.
February 23, 2026
Indian River State College to Host River Fest on 3/7
FORT PIERCE, FL (February 19, 2026) — Indian River State College (The River) will host River Fest on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., at its main campus in Fort Pierce, Florida. The free event is open to the public. 
The community festival celebrates the energy and excellence of The River. There will be live entertainment, DJs, food and drink trucks, games, and inflatables. The day’s events will conclude with an 8:30 p.m. fireworks display. 
River Fest coincides with the 2026 NJCAA Swimming and Diving National Championships which start on campus Wednesday, March 4 and run through Saturday, concluding with the crowning of a national champion.
The River’s men’s program goes for its 52^nd consecutive national title, and the women chase their 44^th straight title.
Event Details: 
What: Indian River State College River Fest 
When: Saturday, March 7, 2026, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. 
Where: Indian River State College, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL 34981 
Cost: Free and open to the public 
February 19, 2026

Discover Your Healthcare Future! Indian River State College School of Health and Human Sciences to Host Open House on 4/6/26 

Smiling nursing student in white cardigan and blue scrubs holding yellow sign reading 'Future #RiverNurse' at open house event with colorful banner decorations spelling 'WALK' and 'YOU ARE AWESOME' with heart symbols in background — *Indian River State College School of Health and Human Sciences to host Open House for prospective students.*

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL (February 16, 2026) — Indian River State College School of Health and Human Sciences will host a free open house on April 6, 2026, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the College’s Port St. Lucie campus, 500 NW California Boulevard. 

The event provides prospective students with comprehensive information about health and nursing education opportunities and career paths in the growing healthcare field. Attendees will tour a state-of-the-art simulation center, laboratories, and classroom facilities while meeting faculty and learning about curriculum offerings. 

 Comprehensive student support services will be showcased, including academic advising, financial aid counseling, scholarship information, and tutoring resources. Faculty members will be available to discuss specific program details and careers 

The open house welcomes prospective students who are interested in exploring healthcare options, career changes, and high school students considering college programs. No prior registration fee is required. 

The School of Health and Human Sciences offers a broad range of health-related programs:

Associate Degree in Nursing (RN)	Bachelor Degree in Nursing (RN-BSN)
Central Service Technology	Dental Hygiene
Healthcare Navigator Specialist	Healthcare Informatics Specialists
Health Services Management (AS Degree)	BS in Healthcare Management
Medical Assisting	Medical Coder/Biller
Medical Laboratory Technology	Nursing Assistant
Pharmacy Technician	Phlebotomy
Physical Therapist Assistant	Practical Nursing
Radiography	Respiratory Care
Surgical Services Technology

Event Details: 

Date: Monday, April 6, 2026 

Time: 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. 

Location: Indian River State College, 500 NW California Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL 34986 

Cost: Free admission   

Registration: Online at https://connect.irsc.edu/event/1062758 

Information: Phone 772-336-6330 or email IRSCSONprograminfo@irsc.edu 

February 16, 2026

Indian River State College to Host Free AI Symposium for Public Safety Professionals and Community Members
“Smart Response: An AI Symposium for Safety Professionals” Explores Artificial Intelligence’s Impact on Emergency Services and Public Safety
FORT PIERCE, FL (February 9, 2026) — Indian River State College invites public safety professionals and community members to “Smart Response: An AI Symposium for Safety Professionals” on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 8:15 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Indian River State College, 3209 Virginia Avenue, V-110, Fort Pierce, FL 34981.
This free, full-day symposium brings together national experts to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming emergency management, law enforcement, fire services, and public safety operations. From AI-driven analytics to managing disruption in emergency services, attendees will gain practical insights into the technologies shaping the future of public safety.
Featured Speakers Include:
Craig Fugate, former FEMA Administrator and Senior Advisor to Indian River State College — AI as a Force Multiplier in the Office; Questions & Next Steps
Batt. Chief Chad Crouse, St. Lucie County Fire District — The Human in the Loop: Keeping Public Safety Human in an AI-Driven World
Bruce W. Fraser, Executive Director of AI Initiatives, Indian River State College — State of the Art: An Overview of AI Developments and Trends
Dave Molinaro, SHI — Prioritizing Data for AI-Driven Analytics through Vision AI
The event opens with welcoming remarks from Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Ph.D., President of Indian River State College at 9:00 a.m.
Event Details:
- Date: Friday, February 27, 2026
- Time: 8:15 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Location: Indian River State College, 3209 Virginia Avenue, V-110, Fort Pierce, FL 34981
- Cost: Free (breakfast and lunch provided)
- Registration: https://linktr.ee/ai_Symposium2026
- Target Audience: Law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency managers, EMS professionals, public safety administrators, community members
Symposium Topics:
- Artificial intelligence in emergency management
- AI-driven analytics for public safety
- Managing AI disruption in emergency services
- Human-centered AI in first responder operations
- Vision AI and data prioritization
- Leadership strategies for AI integration
This symposium is designed for law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency managers, EMS professionals, public safety administrators, and any community members interested in understanding how AI is reshaping emergency response and public safety.
Space is limited. Advance registration is required.
Contact: Colleen Korpon, Indian River State College Public Service Academy – ckorpon@irsc.edu
February 9, 2026
IRSC Public Media Stations Dominate Treasure Coast Radio Market in Fall 2025 Nielsen Ratings
Fort Pierce, FL (February 6, 2026) – IRSC Public Media stations dominated the Treasure Coast radio market in the Fall 2025 ratings period, with all three stations achieving record-breaking performance and top rankings across multiple demographics, according to The Nielsen Company’s latest report.
WQCS 88.9 FM (NPR For The Treasure Coast) maintained its position as the market leader, with its flagship program Morning Edition capturing the #1 overall spot — a 15% increase from Spring 2025. The station also dominated among high-income earners and college graduates. When aggregating the last four ratings periods, WQCS ranks as the #1 station on the Treasure Coast overall.
“These results reflect the trust our community places in IRSC Public Media to deliver quality programming that informs, educates, and entertains,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College (The River). “Our stations’ success demonstrates their vital role in serving the needs of the Treasure Coast.”
“The exceptional performance across all three stations shows that listener-focused programming makes the difference,” said Dr. Michael Hageloh, Executive Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at The River. “Whether it’s news and information on WQCS, R&B and specialty shows on Q 91.1, or rock variety on WQCO, our commitment to serving the region is clearly resonating with audiences.”
Indian River State College President Timothy Moore (right) visits the WQCS studios with Chris Puorro, Associate Vice President of IRSC Public Media, in 2020. Under their leadership, IRSC Public Media’s three stations have achieved record-breaking ratings performance across the Treasure Coast and Lake Okeechobee region
WQCP Q 91.1 FM (The Treasure Coast’s R&B) achieved historic ratings in Fall 2025, nearly doubling its overall share —the highest recorded share for the 91.1 FM frequency in the station’s history, dating back to the 1990s. The station ranked #1 overall in weekday evenings and dominated with specialty programming, including a #1 for Sunday Night Jazz, Solid Gold Saturday Morning, and Sunday Praise. Q 91.1 is also the top station among African American listeners.
WQCO 90.5 & 88.5 FM (Lake O’s Rock Variety), launched less than a year ago, continues to build an audience across the region.
“The success of all three IRSC Public Media stations validates our commitment to serving our entire region with high-quality programming,” said Chris Puorro, Associate Vice President/General Manager of IRSC Public Media. “These ratings demonstrate the strong connection we’ve built with listeners across the Treasure Coast and Lake Okeechobee region.”
Businesses and organizations interested in reaching the Treasure Coast’s most engaged and educated listeners can explore sponsorship opportunities on IRSC Public Media stations by contacting Ron Cook at roncookUW@irsc.edu or calling 801-874-8988.
February 6, 2026
Indian River State College to Host Free Financial Literacy Workshop
Community Event Focuses on Banking, Credit Scores, and Debt Management
WHAT: Free Financial Literacy Workshop – “Banking, Credit Scores, and Debt Management”
WHEN: Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 5:45 – 8 p.m.
WHERE: Via Zoom
WHO: Open to the public. Community members seeking to improve their financial knowledge and skills are encouraged to attend.
EVENT OVERVIEW
Indian River State College invites the community to a free financial literacy workshop designed to empower participants with essential knowledge about banking, credit management, and debt strategies. The evening program features expert speakers who will address common financial challenges and provide practical guidance.
Featured Topics & Speakers:
• Why Banking Matters: Erin Garrison, Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager at PNC Bank, will discuss the importance of establishing and maintaining bank accounts.
• Building Good Credit: Dr. Kris Demarais, Assistant Instructional Dean of Liberal Arts at Indian River State College, will explain why credit scores matter and how to improve them.
• Managing Debt: Joseph Semprevivo, Owner of Joseph’s Real Estate, will share strategies for handling debt effectively.
The workshop will include a question-and-answer session, allowing attendees to engage directly with the presenters. Dr. Maria S. Davis, Professor at Indian River State College, will introduce speakers and moderate the evening.
“Financial literacy is a critical life skill that empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their money,” said Dr. Davis. “This workshop provides an accessible opportunity for our community to learn from experts and take control of their financial futures.”
DETAILED PROGRAM
5:45 p.m. Registration & Opening Remarks
6:00 p.m. Welcome, Indian River State College
6:05 p.m. Introduction of Speakers, Maria S. Davis, D.B.A., Professor, Indian River State College
6:10 p.m. Why do I need to have a bank account? Erin Garrison, Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager, PNC Bank
6:25 p.m. Why is it important to have a Good Credit score? Kris Demarais, Ph.D., Assistant Instructional Dean, Liberal Arts, Indian River State College
6:40 p.m. How can I handle my debts? Joseph Semprevivo, Owner, Joseph’s Real Estate
6:55 p.m. Question and Answer Session
8:00 p.m. Closing Remarks, Maria S. Davis, D.B.A.
REGISTRATION
The event is free and open to the public. Register online at https://connect.irsc.edu/event/403191
EVENT CONTACTS
Dr. Maria S. Davis
Indian River State College – Mueller Campus
6155 College Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32966
Phone: 772-226-2557
Email: medavis@irsc.edu
Dr. Samuel Mikhail
Indian River State College – Pruitt Campus
500 NW California Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986
Phone: 772-336-6270
Email: smikhail@irsc.edu
Website: https://irsc.edu/admissions/financial-assistance/financial-literacy/
About Indian River State College: Indian River State College serves Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offering high-quality, affordable education to over 24,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides more than 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and technical certificates. Visit irsc.edu.
February 6, 2026
Indian River State College Recognizes Local Youth with Full Scholarship
Indian River State College Senior Director of Development Maygan Johnson with Enrique Rosario-Liz.
Fort Pierce, FL (February 5, 2026) — Indian River State College (The River) in partnership with Boys and Girls Club of St. Lucie County awarded St. Lucie County resident Enrique Rosario-Liz with a full scholarship to the College. The scholarship recognizes Rosario-Liz for his character, leadership abilities and community service.
Rosario-Liz had the option to receive two years tuition-free education through the Indian River State College Promise Program, which would have allowed him to earn an Associate in Arts (AA) or Associate in Science (AS) degree. He chose to receive the four-year Indian River State College Foundation scholarship to support his completion of a Bachelor’s Degree at The River.
“The scholarship provides a powerful springboard toward a future of financial freedom, educational accomplishment, and career readiness,” said Dr. Timothy Moore, Indian River State College president. “Our students benefit from small class sizes, faculty who care deeply about our students’ success, and opportunities for leadership, service learning, and career focused internships that prepares them for lives outside of graduation.”
A Club member for five years and a current 12th-grader at Port St. Lucie High School, Rosario-Liz’s hobbies include reading, writing and listening to music. An obstacle he has overovercome in his life is immigrating to the United States from the Dominican Republic. His platform focuses on providing educational resources for immigrant youth.
Later this year, Rosario-Liz will travel to Washington D.C. where he will compete for Boys and Girls Club National Youth of the Year.
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About Indian River State College: Indian River State College serves Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offering high-quality, affordable education to over 24,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides more than 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and technical certificates. Visit irsc.edu.
About Boys and Girls Club of St. Lucie County: For more than 30 years, we have been empowering young people, nurturing their potential, and equipping them to become responsible, caring, and productive citizens. Through our safe and supportive spaces, we inspire members to overcome challenges, build meaningful relationships, and develop essential life skills. As we celebrate our history, we honor our past achievements while looking ahead to an even greater future—one filled with expanded opportunities, deeper impact, and more bright futures for the youth we serve.
February 5, 2026
Indian River State College Foundation Clay Shoot to Benefit Student Veterans on Feb. 13
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Feb. 5, 2026) – The Indian River State College Foundation (IRSC Foundation) will host its Veterans Clay Shoot, presented by Gilbert’s Family of Companies, on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the OK Corral Gun Club in Okeechobee. Proceeds benefit the Indian River State College Military & Veterans Center for Excellence, which supports student-veterans across the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee area.
Register as an individual or team—or amplify your impact as a sponsor, including the $500 “Sponsor a Veteran” option that puts a student veteran on the course. Every dollar raised fuels scholarships, career assistance, and day-to-day support through the Indian River State College Veterans Center of Excellence. Space is limited; secure your spot at https://giving.irsc.edu/ways-to-give/clay-shoot/.
“This event directly supports our student veterans and military families—from scholarships to career assistance and day-to-day support,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College President. “Our community shows up for those who served, and this shoot turns that support into real results for our students.”
“Supporting our student veterans is one of the most meaningful ways we can give back to those who’ve sacrificed for our country,” said IRSC Foundation Vice President Annabel Robertson, JD, CFRE. “The Veterans Clay Shoot brings our community together for a great cause—every shot fired helps a veteran succeed in the classroom and beyond. We’re grateful to Gilbert’s Family of Companies and all our sponsors for making this possible.”
Participants stand for the national anthem at the Indian River State College Foundation’s Veterans Clay Shoot event, honoring those who have served while gathering for a day of camaraderie and sporting clays.
Schedule:
- 8:00 a.m. – Registration and breakfast; opening remarks by Dr. Moore
- 8:45 a.m. – Required safety talk and course information (12- or 20-gauge only; shells provided; ear/eye protection required).
- 9:00 a.m. – Shotgun start
- Followed by – BBQ lunch with awards & raffle – Prizes are awarded to the top team and individuals.
Location:
- OK Corral Gun Club, 9449 48th Street NW, Okeechobee, FL
Presenting Sponsor: Gilbert’s Family of Companies.
Generous support is provided by Brighton Ammunition, Walpole, Inc., CRI/Level 4, Jacquin & Sons, Remnant Construction, Gordon & Partners Law Firm, and IKONIC Munitions.
Entry Fees:
- Team (4 shooters): $2000
- Individual Shooter: $500
- Sponsor a Veteran Shooter: $500 (covers one veteran’s entry, meals, awards; name on promotional materials).
Register: https://giving.irsc.edu/ways-to-give/clay-shoot/
Sponsorship questions can be directed to John Ramfjord, Senior Director of Development, jramfjord@irsc.edu or (772) 462-4786.
February 5, 2026
Indian River State College Career Expo To Connect Job Seekers with 50 Employers
FORT PIERCE, FL (February 04, 2026) — Indian River State College Career Services, in partnership with Enterprise Mobility, will host its annual Spring Career Exposition on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free event is open to the public. Enterprise Mobility is serving as an employment sponsor for The River’s Career Expo, demonstrating its commitment to workforce development and providing students with direct access to career opportunities, industry insight, and professional connections.
More than 50 employers from healthcare, education, public safety, government, and private industry will participate, including Cleveland Clinic, Health First, Martin County School District, St. Lucie Public Schools, Florida Department of Corrections, Seminole Public Safety Department, US Army, Treasure Coast Hospice, and Daher Aerospace.
Job seekers will have the opportunity to interview on-site with hiring managers and learn about immediate employment opportunities. Attendees should bring multiple copies of their resume and be prepared to be interviewed.
“Indian River State College serves as a vital connector between local employers and talented individuals seeking meaningful careers in our region,” said Calvin Williams, Ph.D. Indian River State College Chief Career Officer.
Event Details:
What: Spring Career Exposition
When: Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: Indian River State College, Building O, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL 34981
Cost: Free and open to the public
Participating Employers Include:
Cleveland Clinic, Health First, Treasure Coast Hospice, Martin County School District, St. Lucie Public Schools, Okeechobee County Schools, Florida Department of Corrections, Florida Department of Transportation, Seminole Public Safety Department, St. Lucie County Fire District, Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, US Army, Daher Aerospace, Enterprise Mobility, Charter Schools USA, Independence Classical Academy, Boys and Girls Club of Martin County, Hibiscus Children’s Center, Treasure Coast Food Bank, Elder Home Care Services, A Better Way Home Care, ARC of the Treasure Coast, Fastenal Company, Mast Electric Inc., STAline Waterworks Inc., Composite Essential Materials, Tropical Shipping, Jupiter Island Club, Gilbert Family of Companies, Kessel Medical, and many more.
February 4, 2026
RiverBlog: Top 10 Things You Need to Know About the SBDC at Indian River State College
Starting or growing a business can feel overwhelming. But what if you had a trusted guide with decades of real-world experience ready to help you navigate the challenges? That’s exactly what the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Indian River State College (The River) offers to entrepreneurs and business owners across the Treasure Coast.
Regional Director Tom Kindred recently sat down with Kathleen Walter on IRSC Public Media’s RiverTalk to share insights about this invaluable resource. Here are the top 10 things every business owner should know about the SBDC at The River.
1. It’s Not Just for Startups
While the SBDC helps aspiring entrepreneurs launch new ventures, a significant portion of their work focuses on helping established businesses scale and grow. Whether you’ve been in business for five months or 20 years, the SBDC can help you break through plateaus and reach the next level.
2. The Services Are Completely Free and Confidential
That’s right—free. The SBDC is a federally funded program through the Small Business Administration, which means you get access to high-quality business consulting, training programs, and specialized services at no cost. All consultations are also completely confidential.
3. Real-World Experience Sets Them Apart
Tom Kindred brings more than 20 years of experience running his own retail and restaurant businesses. “My greatest education came from the mistakes and failures,” he explains. “My goal is to let folks know how to avoid some of those mistakes that I made in my small business journey.” This isn’t theoretical advice—it’s wisdom earned in the trenches.
Small Business Incubator at the Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College provides one-on-one consulting to entrepreneurs and business owners looking to start, grow, and scale their operations on the Treasure Coast.
4. They Help You Access Serious Capital
In 2025 alone, the SBDC helped clients secure over $21 million in traditional bank loans and an astounding $84 million in government contracts. While they don’t provide loans directly, they help you put together bank packages, build business plans, and connect with every lending institution on the Treasure Coast. The key? Your business needs to be profitable and cash-flow positive.
5. Government Contracting Is More Accessible Than You Think
Through the Florida Apex Accelerator program, the SBDC helps small businesses tap into government contracts at the federal, state, and local levels. Specialist Scotty Wilson guides clients through the entire process—from acquiring a SAMS number to getting minority-owned, woman-owned, or veteran-owned certifications. They even provide a tool called BidMatch that populates daily with contracts matching your business profile.
Tom Kindred, Regional Director, Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College
6. Business Plans Are Living Documents, Not Shelf Decorations
The SBDC uses an intuitive tool called LivePlan to help clients build comprehensive business plans. “This should be a document that we’re using every day to make sure we’re on track,” Kindred emphasizes. The business plan houses your research, addresses tough questions about growth, identifies key performance indicators, and serves as your roadmap for scaling.
7. They Offer High-End Training Programs
The SBDC provides specialized training beyond one-on-one consulting, including:
- Profit Mastery: A 16-hour deep dive into understanding and managing your financials
- QuickBooks Training: Supporting the gold standard in small business bookkeeping
- Digital Media Boot Camp: Preparing businesses to leverage digital marketing and social media
- Team Building Training: Helping you manage and develop your staff
- Smart Start Orientation: A 2.5-hour overview for aspiring entrepreneurs
8. They Have Powerful Industry Research Tools
Scaling a business requires data. The SBDC provides access to high-end industry databases like BizMiner, ReferenceUSA, and VerticalIQ. These tools help you understand industry trends, financial ratios, and competitive benchmarks—critical information for making informed growth decisions.
9. International Trade Isn’t Just for Big Corporations
Through the Export Marketing Plan (EMP) program, small manufacturers can explore international markets. The SBDC partners with Select Florida and U.S. Commercial Services to create comprehensive export marketing plans (valued at around $20,000) that identify global markets for your products and connect you to trade missions.
10. They’re Staying Ahead of the Curve
The SBDC recently received grant funding from Verizon specifically focused on artificial intelligence training. Social media specialist Phil Gauldies is developing courses on AI for 2026, ensuring that Treasure Coast businesses stay competitive in an rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
In 2025, the SBDC at Indian River State College:
- Worked with approximately 800 clients
- Provided nearly 5,000 hours of consulting
- Helped 45-46 entrepreneurs start new businesses
- Secured $84 million in government contracts for clients
- Facilitated $21 million in traditional capital access
Getting Started Is Simple
Ready to leverage the SBDC’s expertise? Just pick up the phone and call 772-336-6285. Ask for Xiomara (Xio) Rosales to schedule your initial consultation. You can also email them at FSBDC@IRSC.edu.
Whether you’re just starting out, looking to scale an existing business, exploring government contracting, or preparing for international trade, the SBDC at Indian River State College has the experience, tools, and connections to help you succeed.
As Tom Kindred puts it: “I can tell you it is worth the engagement to come meet with the SBDC.”
Don’t let your business journey feel like swimming in a vast ocean without a guide. The SBDC is here, ready to help you navigate those waters and reach your destination.
For more success stories from Treasure Coast entrepreneurs, check out Tom Kindred’s podcast, Small Biz Florida, which shines a light on local business achievements.
February 2, 2026