Recognizing Duane Fladland, 20 Years with the Small Business Development Center

Floor Speech

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Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Duane Fladland for his many years of service for the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and to congratulate him on his retirement as SBDC's State Director.

Duane guided the organization through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading a coalition of skilled advisors to help thousands of small businesses persevere through the crisis. Duane procured federal funding to relieve businesses owners, while also expanding local funding matching resources. He created the Center for Business Resiliency to mitigate the financial impacts of future business interruptions. Throughout his time as State Director, Duane helped the organization achieve their annual goals, including a yearly increase in our deliverables of over 60%. Duane's colleagues recognize him as a strong, adaptable, and resilient leader.

My staff and I have had the privilege of working with Duane on multiple occasions. Through his productive relationships with several elected officials, Duane has helped the SBDC gain exposure at both the state and federal level. His dedication, commitment, and leadership has pushed the organization to support small business owners across Washington state in an effective and human way.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Duane Fladland for his career helping businesses grow and succeed, and I wish him a happy retirement.

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