Fred Jones Business Development Center staff have the expertise to provide many services including: Business Management - BDC staff have practical knowledge in the fields of manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, recycling, and reverse logistics, and have organized and participated in many start-up businesses. Strategic planning and analysis is a strong emphasis of BDC's management team. Raising Capital - Our professionals can assist clients in preparing to go before bankers and non-traditional sources of capital to get funding. Financial - BDC has several people on staff who are experienced with many areas of financial management. Their combined experience includes mergers, acquisitions, and new business start-ups. Purchasing - The BDC operates in a large building, which allows storage of bulk purchases. As the BDC grows, clients can use central buying power to their advantage. BDC staff have experience in contract negotiation and expediting. The BDC will ensure that its clients are getting the best products for the lowest price. Government Visibility - As part of an Oklahoma business incubator, there is opportunity for local, state and regional govermental visibility. Our staff will assist BDC clients in researching access to governmental programs, grants, and special loans to help fund business. The BDC has regular contact with several governmental agencies in order to stay abreast of the governmental incentives available to new businesses. Information Technology - The BDC has a full service IT staff providing LAN/WAN support, Unix support, PC support, software design and development, project management, web development and hosting services, and telecommunications services. Internet access, email, file and print sharing, firewall protection, and use of Microsoft Office are available through the information technology department. These programs can be provided for a monthly fee. Central Services - A large array of business equipment is available for rent. The BDC has available computers, printers, fax machines, copiers, telephones, as well as office furniture, several conference rooms and a cafeteria space that can be used for meetings. Training - The BDC is able to host seminars and personnel development meetings, and will help to secure speakers and qualified teachers to conduct seminars for our clients. Environmental and Safety Assistance - The BDC can introduce clients to environmental and safety regulations and make sure they are working with people who can help them keep in compliance. Human Resource Assistance - The BDC can counsel clients on issues related to hiring and dismissing employees. Assistance is available for workers compensation issues and other employment concerns. Material Handling - FJE has seven warehouses located from Oklahoma City to Orlando and the BDC can arrange for FJE to move and inventory products. FJE has equipment to move and lift heavy objects. In most cases, FJE can pick and ship products the same day we receive the order. Transportation - The BDC has daily access to several distribution channels and freight lines in warehouses operated by FJE. The BDC has accounts with UPS and Federal Express so items can be shipped any time. Reception - A receptionist is available to answer and direct phone calls. The receptionist will greet visitors and notify clients of visitors. This service is included in the basic rent price. Housekeeping - Facilities are maintained and cleaned daily. This service is included in the basic rent price. Security - All entrances to the building are secured with an ID card entry. The facility is patrolled by security guards. This service is included in the basic rent price. Food Service - Several vending machines are in the cafeteria space. Tea and coffee are made fresh daily. Catering can be arranged for meetings and seminars. Mentoring - Community business leaders associated with the BDC are available for assistance. The mentor could act as a silent board member and help the new business work out issues with a seasoned professional.