The Yavapai College Small Business Development Center (SBDC) proudly announces that Marie Platowski-Beals, Certified Business Analyst, has been named this year's Arizona State Star by the SBDC Network.
This prestigious State Star Award is bestowed annually to one individual from each state. Selected by a formal committee comprised of Network leadership and peers, State Stars are recognized as exemplary performers who make significant contributions to their networks and show deep commitment to the success of America’s small businesses.
Marie’s award recognition marks the second time in just three years that a member of the Yavapai College SBDC team has received this distinguished honor. This achievement underscores the professional excellence, high performance, and impactful results consistently delivered by the Yavapai SBDC team.
"I can certainly attest to Marie's true dedication to our Center, the College, and our amazing business clients. She is so deserving of this award and recognition,” said Center Director, Ruth Ellen Elinski.
The Yavapai College SBDC records economic impact numbers including new business starts, capital transactions, and clients advised, among others. These numbers paint a picture of local economic activity and show the progress of clients over time as they work with the SBDC. Economic impact is just one of several metrics reviewed during the State Star selection process. “Marie has worked with countless businesses in Yavapai County helping them to launch and grow their enterprises, access capital, and increase revenue,” Elinski said. “Her numbers speak for themselves.”
Marie is also known for her strong relationships in the community and her approachable nature with clients. “Marie uses her experience to patiently guide clients into business decisions that are well thought out, balancing the risks with the upside potential,” said Lori Simmons, Vice President, Arizona Capital Source. “She spends days, weeks, and months with business clients to ensure they are fully prepared.”
The celebration and formal recognition for Marie and State Stars from across the country, will take place at America’s SBDC National Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, this coming September. There, she will represent the Arizona State SBDC Network and be honored alongside other dedicated SBDC professionals for their outstanding contributions to small businesses.
ABOUT SBDC: The SBDC at Yavapai College is one of 10 centers in the state of Arizona providing no cost, one-on-one confidential consulting and no-cost workshop training to small business owners. Funded jointly by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Yavapai College, the Yavapai SBDC works with business owners throughout Yavapai County helping them launch, grow, sustain and even exit their businesses. More information about Yavapai College SBDC services can be found at yc.edu/sbdc.
