NACCE Member Spotlight: Jack Dugan, Beaufort County Community College 

Meet Jack Dugan, the dedicated Small Business Center Director at Beaufort County Community College and a proud NACCE member for over five years. Jack has leveraged his NACCE membership to build a thriving small business ecosystem in eastern North Carolina—empowering entrepreneurs, sparking innovation, and transforming communities.

Making an Impact with Everyday Entrepreneur
Jack credits the NACCE Everyday Entrepreneur Program as a cornerstone of his center’s success. “It provides valuable tools, resources, expertise, and funding that have a positive impact on our service area,” Jack says. This support has elevated his center’s ability to serve aspiring business owners and helped make programs like the Seed & Sow Pitch Contest possible.

Creating Opportunity Through Community Collaboration
Through Seed & Sow, entrepreneurs participate in a comprehensive business planning process that culminates in a community pitch contest—offering the chance to win funding for their ventures. “This fosters learning, creativity, and a healthy entrepreneurial spirit,” Jack explains. “Most importantly, it plants the seed that helps businesses grow and flourish in our local communities.”

Professional Growth & Shared Expertise
Jack emphasizes how NACCE’s network and collaborative culture have advanced his work. He highlights the support of Everyday Entrepreneur Project Coordinator Lydia Perez, the Level 2 Program Guide, and expert insights from Stuart and Chip Weismiller as key resources that have directly shaped his approach to building a sustainable small business ecosystem.

Advice for Fellow Members & Future Members
“Talk to someone from NACCE and let them know what your program can benefit from,” Jack encourages. “NACCE is a wealth of information, resources, and helpful people.”

And for those considering membership? “No matter where you are in your journey, you can always learn more to better serve your community. NACCE is here to help you strengthen your program—so take advantage of it!”

👏 Thank you, Jack, for your commitment to small business success and for being a vital part of NACCE’s entrepreneurial network!