EAC Photo: Sean Wenham, strategic community development manager at Freeport McMoRan, presents a $20,000 check on behalf of the Freeport McMoRan Foundation to Eric Bejarano, director, Torey Cranford, business analyst, and Tavia Raley, program coordinator of EAC’s SBDC.
By Kris McBride/EAC
THATCHER — The Freeport-McMoRan Foundation has granted $20,000 to the Eastern Arizona College Small Business Development Center (EAC SBDC), specifically allocated to strengthen DreamBuilder programming in Graham and Greenlee counties. This grant underscores a joint commitment to fostering economic growth and inclusive entrepreneurship, with a focus on stimulating the establishment of new businesses and assisting individuals looking to start or grow their own small businesses.
Tracy L. Bame, president of the Freeport-McMoRan Foundation, expressed appreciation for Eastern Arizona College’s efforts in supporting training in Graham and Greenlee counties, thereby creating new business and employee opportunities.
At the core of this initiative is the DreamBuilder program, a transformative 25-30 hour course spanning ten weeks. It serves as a platform for entrepreneurs, both male and female, to actualize their dreams and visions, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge to successfully navigate the business landscape.
Eric Bejarano, director of the EAC SBDC, conveyed enthusiasm about the collaborative effort, stating, “This grant from the Freeport-McMoRan Foundation is a testament to their belief in our mission. We are excited about the positive influence it will have on anyone wanting to create a business.”
For additional information on the DreamBuilder program, please contact Tavia Raley, EAC SBDC program coordinator, at tavia.raley@eac.edu or (928) 428-8590.
About EAC SBDC:
The EAC Small Business Development Center is part of a national and statewide network of small business assistance providers. The Center’s main goal is to give local small businesses the tools and training needed to be successful. The Center is funded by Eastern Arizona College with assistance from a grant provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
The SBDC provides no-cost counseling to assist entrepreneurs with finding answers to the numerous questions that arise when starting or operating a business. The SBDC works in cooperation with the SBA, local Chambers of Commerce, and other community partnerships.
To take your business to the next level, contact us at sbdc@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8590.
About Eastern Arizona College:
Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EAC is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.
Offering a diverse range of over 90 degrees and certificates, EAC is home to the state’s premier nursing school, a fine arts program featuring Arizona’s only community college marching band, and an engineering program that equips students for success at top-tiered firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EAC is a vibrant community where students thrive, forging connections that last a lifetime. Experience on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.
What sets EAC apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt.
Choose EAC as your Smart Higher Education Destination. For more information, contact admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272.
