Welcome to the McLennan SBDC
The McLennan Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is dedicated to helping small businesses in our community succeed. We provide expert business advising, training workshops, and valuable resources to support entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey.
Our Mission
Our mission is to promote economic growth by providing no-cost business consulting, training, and resources to small business owners and entrepreneurs in McLennan County and the surrounding areas.
Service Area
- Bell County
- Bosque County
- Coryell County
- Falls County
- Hill County
- Johnson County
- McLennan County
Meet Our Team
Our experienced team of business advisors and support staff are here to help you achieve your business goals.
Get to know the dedicated professionals who make it all happen:
Thomas Ellis
Director
Experienced Plant Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the consumer services industry. Skilled in Sales, Sales Management, Team Building, Public Speaking, and Management. Strong operations professional with a Master of Business Administration from Tarleton State University.
Sharon Smith
Business Advisor
Sharon Smith graduated from Texas A & M University in College Station with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education with focus on History and Social Studies. She is an entrepreneur in spirit and experience and started the Kona-Ice Franchise in Waco. Sharon has been involved in the Ministry of Young Life both on staff and as a volunteer. She enjoys people, relationships and the opportunity to serve.
Tim Holtkamp
Business Advisor
Tim Holtkamp has a BBA in Finance from Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas. He started Holtkamp Land & Mortgage as well as several other businesses. Tim has several charitable interests including the Mckenzi Ryan Memorial Scholarship fund which provides financial assistance to graduating students and has awarded over 160 scholarships since its inception in 2002. Tim is a charter board member of both Waco Community Development and Faith Works. In his spare time he raises Santa Gertrudis Cattle on his family farm in Robinson, Texas.
Jason Ehler
Business Advisor
Jason Ehler obtained his BBA in Management from the University of Texas at Tyler. He has over 20 years of experience in the consumer service industry with 14 years of management and performance delivery experience within the medical, technology, and financial industries. He is accomplished at lending, strategic planning, client development, sales, marketing, coaching, and organizational development. Jason is a graduate of Leadership Waco and is a current Temple Chamber of Commerce member.
Tona Curry
SBDC Technician
Our Partners
We are proud to collaborate with a network of partners who share our commitment to supporting small businesses.
Our partners provide additional resources, expertise, and opportunities to enhance the services we offer.
Burleson Public Library
