New director takes helm at USU-Moab’s Small Business Development Center

After a series of hiring setbacks, Moab’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has a new director.

Dr. Todd Thompson stepped into the role Jan. 21, bringing a mix of experience in education and entrepreneurship to a program that has struggled with leadership vacancies in recent years.

The SBDC, housed at Utah State University-Moab, provides free consulting, training and resources to help small businesses launch and grow. However, frequent leadership changes in recent years have left the position vacant for extended periods, limiting the program’s effectiveness.

To address ongoing vacancies, Grand County extended its contract with USU for another year last October, allocating $20,000 to cover past expenses and ensure the program runs for its full three-year term. While USU has indicated it may refund the county’s investment if the program does not meet expectations, county commissioners decided to give it another chance, hoping stable leadership would improve results.

Thompson, who has spent about 25 years in education as a principal and teacher, said his priority is to revitalize the program and expand awareness of its resources for local business owners.

“It’s my goal to strengthen business and economic development here in this area by consulting, educating, training, assisting and facilitating the growth of businesses,” he said. “That could be through one-on-one interaction, putting together workshops, or partnering with more established businesses to help newer businesses succeed.”

Thompson previously served as Grand County High School’s principal but was fired in 2023 by the Utah State Board of Education for failing to disclose his educator certificate had been suspended by the South Carolina State Board of Education following a breach of employment contract dispute.

He acknowledged the mistake but said he has moved forward and remains committed to supporting Moab’s business community.

“It was a mistake that I made and something that I would have done differently for sure but  you can focus on a weakness and learn from it and grow from that,” he said. “But even in business, people make mistakes … and they have to make better decisions, pivot and move forward.”

Beyond education, Thompson has experience as an entrepreneur, having owned a nationwide notary company. He aims to build a stronger support system for Moab’s business community by increasing business advising, workshops, and mentorship opportunities with experienced entrepreneurs.

Thompson said Moab’s tourism-driven economy presents unique challenges compared to other SBDC locations, particularly in risk management and liability concerns for local businesses.

“One of the things we try to make sure is that people are safe in their business,” Thompson said. “Especially here in Moab, making sure business owners cover themselves personally and limit liability.”

To address these concerns, he plans to launch workshops featuring accountants, attorneys, financial experts and veteran business owners. Topics will include risk management, business planning and securing loans, among other resources for entrepreneurs looking to expand.

“I want to bring in … people who have been in business for 20 or 30 years to help newer businesses,” he said. “These workshops can give them real education and guidance on what it takes to succeed in Moab.”

As SBDC moves into a new phase with hopes of having a longer-term director, Thompson said he wants to ensure the program is consistent and sustainable for Moab’s small business community.

“We’re here to help, and we’re here to educate,” he said. “We’re here to do everything we can to make businesses successful.”