Looking Ahead

More importantly, the center's ultimate success depends on the local economy at large -- when the entrepreneurs strike it out on their own, they must ultimately compete and survive within the business community.

He acknowledges the continuing stereotype of the "disadvantaged business" -- the image of an entrepreneur given unfair advantages simply because of race or gender. "That's a misrepresentation," he counters, "because we represent the whole city of Fort Myers."

White's ultimate goal: to see a new technologically advanced center that can bolster city entrepreneurs while serving for a clearing house of information for business folks from all walks of life: those looking for training, those looking for employees, or those looking for information or resources. "It's not only Dunbar I'm looking at," he says.

Carl White is indeed a director with a mission. And it seems that he'll have little rest until he gets the job done. "It drives me," he says.

Kathleen McNamara is the managing editor of Southwest Florida Business magazine.

On Jan. 27, The DBE will pair up with the Lee Port Authority, the State of Florida, Lee County and the Florida Department of Transportation for a one-day networking, certification and employment event, where entrepreneurs can apply for certification and get set up to meet all the criteria, including bonding and insurance.

On Jan. 11, the DBE will kick off a series of 12 classes for entrepreneurs at the Dunbar Community Center. The classes will take place every Tuesday, 6-9 p.m. at a cost of $6 per class. All entrepreneurs are welcome to attend.

For more information or a schedule of events, call the City of Fort Myers Business Development Center at 332-6701.