The WBDC is an economic development center focused on delivering programs and services that assist small business owners gain access to contracts, contacts, information and capital to create jobs, fuel growth and build strong communities. The WBDC offers workshops and events to build capacity, make connections and overall elevate entrepreneurs' business acumen to remain competitive in the marketplace. For a comprehensive understanding of our offerings, visit www.WBDC.org or call 312.853.3477. The WBDC has programs that are designed to help individuals in every phase of the business development and growth process. The WBDC's Women's Business Enterprise (WBE) Certification Program covers a nine state Midwestern region. In 2003, the WBDC established a satellite office in Minneapolis (WBDC-MN) to better serve the WBEs in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Western Wisconsin. For more information on the WBDC-MN, please visit www.WBDC.org/mn. Currently the WBDC is increasing these outreach efforts by establishing partnerships in the major markets of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Wisconsin. Since inception, the WBDC has been on the forefront of economic development policy and program development to accelerate the growth of women-owned businesses nationally. The WBDC is a local, national and international advocacy organization and a national leader in the development of programs and policies affecting small, minority and women's business ownership.