Jonesboro, AR – Contributed – Laura Miller, center director of the Arkansas State University Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC), and Robert Bahn, business consultant, have been awarded their updated credentials as Certified Business Advisors (CBA).
The CBA designation recognizes advanced expertise in business consulting, strategic advising, and economic development support. The updated certification confirms both advisors’ continued mastery of complex business analysis, financial modeling, strategic planning, and client advisory services.
The Certified Business Advisor designation is administered through the ASBDC professional certification program, which establishes rigorous national standards for business consulting excellence within the Small Business Development Center network.
The program requires advanced training, demonstrated consulting competency, and ongoing professional development to ensure advisors deliver high-impact, data-driven guidance to entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Unlike general business certifications, the CBA credential is specifically designed for professional advisors working within the Small Business Development Center system. It validates expertise in:
- Financial analysis and forecasting
- Business feasibility assessment
- Capital access preparation
- Strategic growth planning
- Market research interpretation
- Risk analysis and operational scaling
The Arkansas State University SBTDC is part of the Neil Griffin College of Business at Arkansas State University and receives support from the Office of the Provost. The certification reflects not only individual achievement but the institutional commitment to excellence in business advisory services.
Dr. Jim Washam, Dean of the Neil Griffin College of Business, emphasized the significance of the accomplishment:
“The Certified Business Advisor credential represents a high standard of professional excellence within the Small Business Development Center network. Laura Miller and Robert Bahn exemplify the level of expertise, integrity, and dedication that define the Neil Griffin College of Business. Their continued certification reinforces Arkansas State University’s commitment to delivering exceptional support for the business community and driving economic development in the region.”
The Arkansas State University SBTDC serves entrepreneurs and small businesses across Northeast Arkansas, providing confidential, no-cost consulting services in areas including startup planning, capital access, financial analysis, marketing strategy, and operational growth.
The renewed certifications further strengthen the Center’s ability to support business formation, expansion, and job creation throughout the region.
About the Arkansas State University Small Business and Technology Development Center
The Arkansas State University SBTDC is part of a statewide network dedicated to helping small businesses grow and succeed. Hosted by the Neil Griffin College of Business at Arkansas State University, the Center provides professional consulting, training, and research-based guidance to entrepreneurs across Northeast Arkansas.
For more information about SBTDC services, visit https://asbtdc.org/jonesboro/.