Kim Preston, interim Center for Rural Affairs Women's Business Center director, [email protected], 402.687.2100 ext. 1008; or Rhea Landholm, brand marketing and communications manager, [email protected], 402.687.2100 ext 1025
Lyons, Neb. - Kim Preston, of Lyons, Nebraska, has been appointed interim director of the Center for Rural Affairs Women’s Business Center.
The Women’s Business Center organizes training events for rural entrepreneurs throughout Nebraska. Events focus on online marketing, Quickbooks training, business plan basics, tax tips, and more.
“Kim has the skills and the passion to lead our work assisting women entrepreneurs in rural Nebraska,” said Brian Depew, Center for Rural Affairs executive director.
In 1999, Preston started her career with the Center for Rural Affairs in the policy and research program. In 2013, she became the administrative assistant for the Center’s small business program.
“I have a wide view of business development with my ‘behind the scenes’ perspective,” said Preston. “This has allowed me an intimate look at both the ups and downs of small businesses, and hopefully the knowledge to help businesses replicate the ups and avoid the downs.”
Preston will coordinate with partner organizations to provide training and technical assistance opportunities to borrowers and prospective borrowers; assist business specialists in developing individualized technical assistance plans and provide guidance on implementation; and develop relationships with borrowers and potential borrowers.
“I’m really looking forward to meeting and working more directly with business owners and potential business owners,” said Preston. “I’m excited to apply a lot of what I’ve learned in the last five years in a practical environment.”
The interim director steps in for Monica Braun, of Seward, who recently retired after 12 years as Women’s Business Center director and 16 years with the Center for Rural Affairs.
