The Nogales Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce, with sponsorship from CEMEX, offered local entrepreneurs a business forum on Thursday in an effort to combat tough economic times.

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“Speakers offered advice on several areas businesses need to help stay afloat and grow,” said chamber Director Olivia Ainza-Kramer.

Among the presenters was Microbusiness Advancement Center, which provides small businesses with skills training, professional support and financing.

Steve Heart of the Small Business Administration spoke about opportunities to obtain funding through a new small business federal stimulus package.

ACCION New Mexico-Arizona is an organization that has provided financing for start-up and operation capital to more than 2,400 micro and small businesses.

Providing advice on the banking aspects were Chase Bank and Wells Fargo.

Corporacion Profesional de Contaduria, or Professionals MX was invited to address banking and other business issues in Mexico.

Kramer said more workshops and seminars will be announced in the near future.

For more information, call (520) 287-3685.