ABOUT the Longview SBDC
Helping Entrepreneurs Start, Grow, and Thrive
The Longview SBDC helps new entrepreneurs launch their businesses and existing small businesses stay competitive in today’s fast-changing marketplace.
No cost, no catch — our one-on-one business advising and consulting services are completely free, so cost is never a barrier to accessing the support and expertise you need.
How is this possible? — We are part of America’s nationwide network of over 1,000 SBDCs, funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration and hosted by leading universities and colleges. Additional funding is provided by the State of Texas and the University of Texas at Tyler. Our work supports local economic growth, job creation, and access to capital.
Our team includes a director and advisors who have started and run their own small businesses. With real-world experience, we provide practical guidance, strategic insight, and proven solutions to help businesses start, grow, or fix their operations.
Whether you’re launching a new business, expanding, or facing challenges, the Longview SBDC is here to provide expert advice and support every step of the way.
Ready to get started? Click the link below and let us help you achieve your small business dreams.
Your SBDC TEAM
Day Shelmire
Director
Day Shelmire is the Director of the Longview Small Business Development Center. After earning an MBA from SMU, Mr. Shelmire became a career entrepreneur starting several successful small businesses in high tech, consulting, and food manufacturing. His areas of expertise include marketing and sales, management, manufacturing, and partnerships. Mr. Shelmire was appointed Director of the Longview Small Business Development Center in February of 2019.
Virgel Conner
Sr. Business Advisor
Virgel Conner is the Senior Business Advisor of the Longview Small Business Development Center. Virgel earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Stephen F. Austin in Nacogdoches. He has been with the Longview SBDC since May 2004 after owning several small businesses. In his long and illustrious career, Virgel has secured $115 million in SBA and conventional funding for the entrepreneurs and small business owners in the North Texas SBDC region. Virgel is the recipient of the 2025 ASBDC State Star award which is the highest honor given within each state’s SBDC network, recognizing exceptional achievement, impact, and leadership in serving small businesses.
Brandy Flanagan
Business Advisor
Brandy Flanagan is a Business Advisor with the Longview Small Business Development Center. With a degree in business communications from UT Tyler, 20 years of successful entrepreneurship, and six years of community-based leadership, Brandy joined the SBDC network in November of 2019. Her areas of expertise are niche marketing, management, and organizational development. She is a true public servant having been elected as the first female mayor of Gladewater, Texas. Brandy is currently pursuing a master’s degree in business administration from the Soules College of Business at the University of Texas at Tyler.
