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National Small Business Week has Arrived!Since 1963 our country has acknowledged successful entrepreneurs with National Small Business Week. This week long celebration was established to recognize the contributions of small businesses to the economic well-being of America. The U.S. Small Business Administration will acknowledge the special impact made by outstanding entrepreneurs and small business owners alike. Small business plays a vital role in strengthening our economy. This week long celebration will be honoring an estimated 27.2 million small businesses in America. More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business. They also create 60-80 percent of new jobs in the country. Small businesses drive innovation, create 21st century jobs and increase U.S. competitiveness. Click for More Information…
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Community First to Participate in Microenterprise DayCelebrating National Small Business Week at the state level, Community First Fund will participate in Microenterprise Day on May 26, 2010 at the State Capitol Main Rotunda. The purpose of the event is to educate elected officials on the importance of small business. The event is being organized by the Pennsylvania Microenterprise Coalition (PMC), of which Community First is a member. The event starts at 10:30 am, features a program at 12 noon consisting of entrepreneurs, PMC members, and elected officials, and concludes at 3:00 pm. All are welcome to join us and meet the entrepreneurs who are the driving force of our local economy!
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Client Profile: Raphael InnThe Raphael Inn is the ideal setting for tourists looking to explore the quaint town of Gettysburg. The Escaleras are quite the gracious hosts, offering their guests intricately detailed rooms, lavish full breakfasts, and good conversation. It’s location is ideal, sitting a mere four blocks from Gettysburg’s Lincoln Town Square and three blocks from Gettysburg College. The idea for the business began in 2003; “we had both been entrepreneurs in other arenas, and found we still had entrepreneurial leanings,” said George. “Though we bought the house outright, securing a loan for renovations proved to be challenging,” added Alexandra. A loan of $15,000 from Community First Fund enabled the Escaleras to build additional bathrooms and finish necessary renovations for the bed and breakfast.
George and Alexandra see their ownership as more than just running a business; they have built relationships with many guests, hailing from all over the country and even from Europe. In 2007, the Escaleras obtained another loan from Community First Fund for a $20,000 line of credit.
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