THE SHOALS-A new networking program for budding entrepreneurs is coming to the Shoals in
September. Biz Buzz is a free, weekly program designed to educate, engage and connect
entrepreneurs. Developed by the Shoals Chamber of Commerce, the UNA College of
Business, the Shoals Entrepreneurial Center and the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library,
Biz Buzz is based on the notion that entrepreneurs discover solutions through networking
together and learning from others who have created their own, unique business in the
Shoals.
Steve Holt
“There’s a strong spirit of innovation here. We see it every day because we’re in the
business of doing that,” explains Shoals Chamber President Steve Holt. “Biz Buzz will be
an opportunity for others to see what we see. It will be a chance for those with innovative
ideas to learn from each other and grow.”
“I am excited to support Biz Buzz and its role to build a place where our startups and
entrepreneurs can meet to share their successes and challenges,” added Dr. Greg Carnes,
Dean of UNA’s College of Business.
Giles McDaniel, Executive Director of the Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, expanded on
Giles McDaniel, Shoals Entrepreneurial Center
that purpose. “The program should increase collaboration among our small businesses in
the Shoals and make them aware of all the resources available to them among their fellow
business owners,” he explained. “We want to continually offer resources that will fill our
innovation ecosystem here.”
Events will be held weekly at 9:00 am at the Florence Lauderdale Public Library and will
include a featured speaker and coffee. The first Bizz Buzz session will be held on
September 16 and will feature Jackie Hendrix of Party Pros USA.
Biz Buzz will welcome Darrin Butler of Virtual Village Classroom on September 23,
followed by Howard Speegle of DIVA Automation on September 30.
These events are open to the public.
