Free one-on-one business counseling is available Monday, March 16 in Friday Harbor from a business adviser from the Economic Development Association of Skagit County, in partnership with the San Juan County EDC and Chamber of Commerce.

Appointments may be made by calling (360) 336-6114.

“Small businesses are the backbone of America and providing support to them ensures our nation’s long-term growth,” said Don Wick, executive director of the Economic Development Association of Skagit County.

Counseling available covers all areas of business, whether it is a new business or long-standing concern.

In addition to one-on-one counseling, the business adviser will also present a three-hour session through Skagit Valley College on how to start-up a small business from concept, business planning to seeking funding. This session begins at 10 a.m. at the American Legion Building on First Street in Friday Harbor. This session is open to the public.

The Economic Development Association of Skagit County provides resources to businesses in Skagit, San Juan and Island counties through its partnership with the Washington Small Business Development Centers. The Washington SBDC is a partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Washington State University and other Washington institutions of higher education, and economic development organizations.

The mission of the Economic Development Association of Skagit County is to enhance quality of life through the creation and preservation of healthy businesses and good jobs.

For more information, call (360) 336-6114 or visit www.skagit.org.