Jim Pillans, State Star 2018
By: Toni Carter
Brazos Valley SBDC Director Jim Pillans (left) and UH Texas Gulf Coast SBDC Network Exec. Director Steve Lawrence (right) at the 2018 America’s SBDC State Stars reception in Washington, D.C.
The University of Houston Texas Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network Executive Director Steve Lawrence announces Jim Pillans as the recipient of the prestigious State Star Award 2018.
“It’s an honor to represent the Network as this year’s State Star Award winner… and to have the opportunity to provide sound business advice to entrepreneurs starting and growing their businesses," said Pillans. "I’ve also been extremely fortunate to surround myself with a hard-working team that share the same work ethic and objectives to help small businesses succeed.”
Pillans is the director for Brazos Valley SBDC serving the counties of Brazos, Burleson, Milam and Robertson. He was chosen for exhibiting stellar leadership, making extraordinary contributions to the Brazos Valley SBDC program, and showing strong commitment and dedication to small businesses in the Bryan–College Station metropolitan area.
Pillans has been a tremendous asset to the SBDC. During his 20 year tenure, he has advised 1,762 clients, assisted with the opening of 262 new businesses and has secured a total of $95,847,000 in startup and expansion capital.
Pillans was recognized for his exemplary performance at a special awards reception honoring the 2018 America’s SBDC State Stars. The reception was held Wednesday, Sept. 5 in Washington, D.C. in conjunction with the 38th Annual ASBDC Conference. The conference was held Sept. 4-7 at the Marriot Marquis - a 15-story hotel that spans almost an entire city block.
Professional Development in the Nation’s Capital
More than 1,400 SBDC professionals from all over the country traveled to the nation’s capital for the 38th Annual ASBDC Conference—a professional development and networking event. SBDC business advisors, trainers, managers and directors attended stimulating workshops, listened to world-class keynote speakers and eagerly engaged one another sharing best practices and experiences. They also engaged with sponsors and trade show exhibitors, learning about the latest information on products and services that can guarantee the success of their small business clients.
The theme of this year’s conference was Connect & Protect.
