Government representatives from Central American countries visited the U.S. with the objective of receiving training for the development of the Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) in their countries of origin. The countries represented included Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panamá. In addition, representatives from the Dominican Republic were present due to the DR-CAFTA trade treaty in the region.

SBDCs provide assistance to small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs throughout the United States and its territories. SBDCs help entrepreneurs realize the dream of business ownership and help existing businesses remain competitive in a complex, ever-changing global marketplace. SBDCs are hosted by leading universities and state economic development agencies.