The nationwide splatter of job losses

We came across an interesting animation this week - a tool that demostrates/illustrates the collective job gains and losses that different communities in this country have experienced since January 2004. The animation is simple but the impact is profound. Just visually, this shows you that no area of the country stands immune from the economic downturn. While some economists and politicians may groan about certain corners of the United States that seem to be losing more jobs than in other areas, this animation truly debunks any notion of that. Unfortunately, the final "slide" is eerily reminiscent of a crime scene. Yikes. All the more reason to start your own business?

Rural business grows by using technology, through New Ventures Business Development, Inc.

Harold Britt, owner of Britt Insurance Agency, Inc./Nationwide (www.brittinsuranceagency.com) in Anson and Union counties, N.C., talks about the technology applications he learned by working with New Ventures Business Development Inc. (www.nvbdi.org). Using these services, Britt's business is growing and saving money at the same time. New Ventures is a publicly-supported business and technology center that offers free or low-cost counseling for small business owners and entrepreneurs, thereby creating jobs and local wealth in this rural community.

"Shoot for the Moon:" starting a new business in rural Anson and Union counties, N.C.

Sheri Strawn, owner of Hip Chick Accessories in Anson and Union counties, N.C., tells her story about how her business got started through the affordable support offered at New Ventures Business Development, Inc. (www.nvbdi.org). Strawn believes that rural communities must have local support for entrepreneurs as a key strategy for that area's economic development plan.

Lacking broadband infrastructure in Halifax County

Florine Bell, a community organizer in Roanoke Rapids, N.C., explains the value of high-speed Internet services to her area and its ability to impact economic improvement.

Rural community finds success with New Ventures Business Development, Inc.

Ivory Little, proprietor of a forthcoming support home/center for unwed teen mothers in and around Anson County, N.C., talks about how her business plan has come together with vital support from New Ventures Business Development, Inc. in Wadesboro.

Lacking broadband infrastructure in western N.C.

Betty Hurst of western North Carolina's HandMade in America (www.handmadeinamerica.org), explains how craftspeople must have access to high-speed Internet services in order to sustain their small businesses and resultant livelihood.

Rural entrepreneur finds success with New Ventures Business Development, Inc.

Sheri Bowers, owner of Bowers Family Studios in Wadesboro, N.C. (Anson County), talks about how her small business got started and why the community must continue to support New Ventures Business Development, Inc. as a key strategy for local economic development.