DURANT, OKLA. – The Oklahoma Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has announced the return of Maria Almeida to its team as a business advisor, bolstering efforts to assist entrepreneurs throughout the Tulsa area.
In partnership with Tulsa Tech, Almeida will operate from the Lemley Memorial Campus and Gradient, providing targeted support to small businesses across northeastern Oklahoma. Her return underscores the SBDC’s ongoing commitment to accessible and bilingual advisory services.
Experienced Advisor with International Background
Born in Quito, Ecuador, Almeida brings over 15 years of experience in delivering financial and technical assistance to small businesses. As a certified English–Spanish interpreter, she is dedicated to ensuring that language differences do not prevent entrepreneurs from accessing professional guidance and business resources.
Almeida holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and a master’s degree in international relations, with a concentration in economics and finance. Her professional expertise spans business development, financial strategy, and communication—skills that position her to help clients build and sustain growth in competitive markets.
Bilingual, No-Cost Support for Entrepreneurs
In her new role, Almeida will provide confidential, no-cost advisory services in both English and Spanish. She will assist entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey—from start-up planning to long-term strategic growth.
“We are pleased to have Maria Almeida back on our team as a business advisor,” said Oklahoma SBDC State Director Michele Hockersmith. “Maria brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to the SBDC network. We look forward to the contributions she will bring to the network.”
Almeida’s return comes as part of the organisation’s broader mission to strengthen Oklahoma’s business ecosystem. Since its founding in 1984, the Oklahoma SBDC has grown into the state’s most comprehensive business consulting network, having supported more than 150,000 Oklahomans in launching and developing successful enterprises.
Supporting Economic Growth and Job Creation
Operating across 20 locations statewide, the SBDC provides tailored support to business owners in all 77 Oklahoma counties. The network’s advisers offer expertise in areas such as strategic planning, financial management, marketing, and technology integration.
By making professional advice freely available, the SBDC has become a vital force in fostering entrepreneurship, job creation, and regional economic resilience. Its long-standing partnerships with educational institutions, technology centres, and regional consortia have expanded its reach and impact across the state.
The Oklahoma SBDC is partially funded by the US Small Business Administration (SBA) and works closely with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, alongside other public and private sector partners. This cooperative model ensures the sustainability of business support programmes that directly contribute to economic growth and innovation.
Building an Inclusive Business Environment
Through its network of expert advisers, the SBDC remains a trusted partner for entrepreneurs seeking practical guidance and growth opportunities. Almeida’s bilingual expertise further enhances the inclusivity of the centre’s services, ensuring equal access for English- and Spanish-speaking business owners alike.
Her experience and leadership are expected to contribute significantly to the development of Tulsa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, helping businesses overcome challenges and achieve long-term success.
Contact Information
For more information or to learn about the range of services provided by the Oklahoma Small Business Development Center, contact the Oklahoma SBDC Network Office at 580.745.2877 or visit www.oksbdc.org.
The Oklahoma SBDC is funded in part by the US Small Business Administration. For a detailed overview of its funding structure, visit www.oksbdc.org/funding/.
