On March 20, 2002, the FSBDC held the Third Annual Capitol-Business Briefing and Reception at the Florida House on Capitol Hill. The event provided a unique and informal opportunity to discuss with Members and their Small Business Staff the value of the FSBDC's federal partnership with the State of Florida and the State University System to deliver proven business management assistance to their small business constituents in Florida.

Congressman Bill Young was recognized as the 2002 Small Business Dividend$ Award recipient for continually ensuring that the SBDCs receive their fair share of federal resources to continue providing much needed assistance to the small business community. Randall West, Vice President of Robison International, Inc., proudly accepted the award for Congressman Young (see photos), because of an extended committee meeting that prevented Young's attendance at the event. West spoke of Congressman Young's strong commitment to small business constituents in southern Pinellas County and stated that Young was regretful that he was unable to accept the award in person.

This year, the FSBDC opened the invitation list to key economic development organizations to provide an opportunity to increase visibility and awareness of the SBDC program; develop and/or enhance relationships with representatives from these organizations; and discuss future potential partnerships. Representatives from the State University System of Florida; U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of Entrepreneurial Development, Office of SBDCs, North and South Florida District Offices, Office of International Trade, and Veteran’s Business Development; Foundation for Democracy in Africa; National Veterans Corporation; US Department of Labor, Office of Small Business Programs; and the Association of Small Business Development Centers were among those who were invited to the event.

Regional SBDC Directors from the University of West Florida, Gulf Coast Community College, Florida A&M University, University of North Florida, University of South Florida, University of Central Florida and Florida Atlantic University, as well as the State Director's Office, represented the Network at the event.

Michael Crews, a client of the University of South Florida SBDC and small business constituent of Congressman Young, also participated in this year's event in support of the FSBDC Network. Michael is the son of Nancy Crews, owner of Custom Manufacturing & Engineering, Inc. in St. Petersburg.