A friend of small business turned 60 years old last month.
The Smaller Business Association of New England (SBANE) has worked with thousands of business owners over the years, providing everything from advice on managing time to tackling Year 2000 issues.
“SBANE has helped businesses adjust to the changing world of technology, but has also realized the importance long-time members put in a handshake and creating business contacts,” said Carrie Edgington, a spokesperson for the group.
The organization has 1,200 member businesses in New England, including 100 in Rhode Island. SBANE marked its anniversary with a dinner at the New Seaport Hotel in Boston last month.
Edgington said the group has been a resource that has tried to provide services that public small business groups have not provided, or work to reinforce the services they do offer. She said the most popular element of SBANE is its educational center in Waltham, Mass., where 50 programs and seminars are held each year.
“Management, sales, marketing and technology are the key areas targeted at the center and sought out by the small business owners,” said Edgington.
SBANE also offers access to group health insurance and 401(k) plans.
“Some of the large health insurance plans require a business to have 10 employees to get a group rate. By joining with us they can get that rate,” she added.
Mereco Technologies in West Warwick, a formulator of specialty chemicals for the electronic industry, has had a long relationship with SBANE.
“We have been working with them since the late 1970s. Their seminars, for example, provide a direct benefit to the small business owner,” said Philip M. Papoojian, president and chief operating officer of Mereco. He said the best resource offered by SBANE is its “Dialogue Group,” which is a regular gathering of CEOs and company owners.
“It provides an opportunity for advice and counseling among the owners and executives. We share confidential matters with complete trust in each other,” he said.
Papoojian wishes more business owners would get involved.
“I think a lot of small business people would love to take part in these things, but just don’t have the time. SBANE could probably help them learn ways of making time,” he added.
Dick Tracey, sales representative for SBANE’s Rhode Island chapter, has noticed more and more stress on small business owners during the 12 years he has worked for the group.
“Most of them are burdened with trying to survive and remain competitive. Most businesses start with great hopes, then they hit road blocks — regulations and taxes — and they get scared,” he said. “I really enjoy helping these people get through it. That’s what we are all about.”
Membership fees for the association depend on the number of employees with the company. The minimum fee is $275. Additional information on SBANE can be obtained by calling (781) 890-9070.
