Houston Daily

Charles Capers, a financial consultant at the University of Houston Small Business Development Center (UH SBDC), has played a significant role in supporting small businesses across the Houston region. Drawing on over 20 years of experience in commercial banking, Capers assists entrepreneurs with securing financing, refining business strategies, and overcoming growth challenges.

The UH SBDC is part of the Association of Small Business Development Centers and operates 14 centers serving 32 counties in Southeast Texas. The network provides business advising, training, tools, and resources to help small businesses start and grow. Since its founding in 1984, it has contributed to building a regional ecosystem for entrepreneurs and innovators. The center is affiliated with the University of Houston and receives partial funding through an agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Capers highlighted Excargo Services Inc., a logistics company based in Houston that has benefited from UH SBDC’s support. During the pandemic, Capers helped Excargo secure disaster funding from the SBA to maintain operations. More recently, he assisted the company in preparing a loan proposal that enabled them to finance a major real estate project, resulting in expanded operations and job creation.

Capers explained his approach: “As an SBDC business advisor and former banker, my specialty is commercial lending and financing. I assist small businesses by analyzing financials and other documents to determine their capacity to obtain capital for growth or expansion.” He also noted his relationships with local banks help clients access necessary financing.

He advised aspiring entrepreneurs to develop professional business plans and use SBDC resources before launching their ventures. Common pitfalls include insufficient startup capital and lack of creditworthiness for bank loans.

On the day-to-day impact of UH SBDC advisors, Capers said: “UH SBDC advisors bring vast skill sets and resources to help small businesses with market research, marketing, budgeting and access to capital. We help small business owners identify weaknesses and strengthen their overall business trajectory.”

Reflecting on his work, Capers stated: “Watching our clients launch and grow their businesses. It’s incredibly gratifying to know that our work helps make the community more economically successful. Our clients’ success is our success.”

Looking ahead at Houston’s evolving economy—which includes sectors like aerospace, digital technology, AI, manufacturing, hospitality, and innovation—Capers expressed optimism about how UH SBDC can continue contributing: “It’s exciting to see how we can help shape their growth and contribute to Houston’s economic future.”

Recent data from the UH Texas Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center 2023 Impact Report show that last year alone the network consulted 1,735 business clients; secured $188.9 million in startup and expansion capital; created or retained 4,814 jobs; contributed $21 million in additional taxes; started 383 new businesses; generated $180.2 million in new sales; and achieved 15.8% client employment growth.

The UH Texas Gulf Coast SBDC Network remains responsible for providing assistance throughout Southeast Texas via its 14 locations.

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