Scranton SBDC Consultant Wins National Award

Zakiyyah Smith, business consultant for The University of Scranton's Small Business Development Center, was named to America's SBDC 40 Under 40 list, which recognizes outstanding individuals under 40 in the SBDC Network "for their mastery of commerce, sparks of innovation, and steadfast dedication to nurturing the growth and prosperity of their communities."

"These ambitious leaders are changing communities and employing unique perspectives and strategies that resonate with a modern workforce," said Charles "Tee" Rowe, president and CEO, America's SBDC, of the recipients. The award was presented at the 45th annual America's SBDC Conference, which was held in September in Atlanta, Georgia.

Smith joined The University of Scranton SBDC in 2023. She provides business consulting services to start-up and existing small business clients within Pike County and SBDC's Women's Entrepreneurship Center. She brings to the SBDC a diverse background of experience working in client facing and account management related roles within the financial services and insurance industries. Her three areas of specialty interest are brand awareness, digital marketing strategy and time management.

A small business owner herself, Smith has facilitated the Women's Entrepreneurship Center StartUP Program, a six-week certificate series is designed to provide women with the skills and knowledge needed to start their own businesses, with a focus on serving women in a life transition or those trying to make a better life for themselves and their families. This program offers participants education, support and guidance in determining if entrepreneurship is an option for them while teaching business startup basics, legal and insurance considerations, marketing and social media essentials, business plan development, accounting and budget skills, financing options and goal setting.

Last February, Smith facilitated a Fireside Chat with Black Women Business Owners, hosted by The University of Scranton SBDC and sponsored by NEPA Alliance APEX Accelerator.

Smith earned a bachelor's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and holds Google certification in digital marketing and e-commerce.

The SBDC at The University of Scranton serves small business clients in Bradford, Lackawanna, Monroe, Pike, Susquehanna, Tioga, Wayne and Wyoming counties.