Jasper Chamber Opens Free Small Business Counseling Office in Dubois County

Dubois County business owners who couldn't afford a private consultant can now get loan-readiness guidance, cash-flow analysis, and business-plan help at no charge from a retired commercial banker who spent years on the lender's side of the table. The Jasper Chamber of Commerce established the Dubois County Small Business Resource Office at 302 West 6th Street, connecting local entrepreneurs directly to Indiana Small Business Development Center services and naming Ken Schnaus as the county's on-the-ground business advisor.

Schnaus built his career as a regional banker and commercial lender evaluating exactly the documents and plans that small business owners struggle to produce: cash-flow projections, loan-readiness packages, and business valuations. A Jasper contractor trying to secure a line of credit for equipment, or a Main Street retailer who needs to restructure before approaching a bank about expansion, can sit down with Schnaus at no charge and leave with a clearer picture of what a lender needs to see.

The Indiana Small Business Development Center network, which the Chamber's new office ties into directly, provides confidential counseling to start-up and existing businesses at no charge and runs several low-cost workshops for both current owners and those still deciding whether to open a business. Services include business plan development, market and industry research, sales and financial forecasting, business-structure guidance, and basic business valuation.

The Chamber announced the office March 30, describing it as designed to serve Dubois County and surrounding areas. Program impact will be measured through appointments held, businesses counseled, and whether clients go on to file loan applications or open storefronts.

To schedule a consultation, contact Schnaus directly at 812-639-2574. If the call is not immediately answered, leaving a message is encouraged. The Jasper Chamber of Commerce is also reachable at 812-482-6866 or in person at 302 West 6th Street.