City announces new leader of Boulder Small Business Development Center and expands partnership

The City of Boulder is pleased to announce Sarah Wood has been hired to lead the Boulder Small Business Development Center (SBDC). In her role, Wood will oversee the Boulder SBDC's efforts to support aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses across a range of industries by offering free, confidential business advising, affordable workshops, connections to financing and resources, and disaster preparedness and recovery assistance.

"For more than two decades, the Boulder SBDC has played an essential role in our community by helping thousands of small businesses start, grow and succeed," said city manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde. "We are delighted to welcome Sarah to the city and look forward to working together to continue the center's important work while enhancing our support for small businesses."

The Boulder SBDC operates through a partnership between the United States Small Business Administration, the State of Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, and the City of Boulder. The city has recently expanded its partnership with the SBDC to provide additional operational support, enabling the SBDC to dedicate more time and resources to consulting, workshops and small business collaboration.

Wood brings a wealth of experience to the position, with over twelve years in operations management, strategic planning, marketing and business development. Her expertise spans multiple industries, including the music industry, outdoor brands, manufacturers, community spaces, and nonprofits. Wood's unique background as an entrepreneur and creative and strategic leader is expected to build on the Boulder SBDC's success in fostering business growth and innovation.

"It is an honor to join the Boulder SBDC and the City of Boulder," said Wood. "The Boulder community has long been a hub of innovation and creativity, and home to entrepreneurs of all kinds. I'm thrilled to carry the SBDC and City of Boulder's legacy of service and innovation forward into this new chapter. I look forward to collaborating with our community of talented consultants, local economic development partners, and the broader SBDC network to help elevate the resources and programs that foster our thriving local economy."

Wood's experience and passion for supporting small businesses are expected to be key assets in her leadership of the Boulder SBDC. She is currently serving her first term on the Colorado Council on Creative Industries and has previously served as Board Chair for the North Carolina Outdoor Recreation Coalition and Carbondale Arts.

Wood earned her B.B.A. from Belmont University in Nashville, TN. When not working, she enjoys exploring the backcountry on her bike, skis, or raft with her partner Rob, and dog Beans.

For more information about the Boulder SBDC and its services, visit their website.