AUGUSTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration is holding a series of statewide seminars to provide an overview of the business assistance services available for small business owners, local economic development agencies and community officials.

Mary McAleney, district director of the Maine SBA, said the series will highlight services and programs available from a variety of federal, state and regional organizations that small businesses and entrepreneurs can use to start, prosper and grow. These seminars will be conducted during the next few months. Information can be found at www.sba.gov/me.

Each two-hour session will consist of a 30-minute registration and networking period, a 45-minute presentation, followed by a question-and-answer period. SBA staff members will be available following each presentation to meet with individuals seeking further advice.

There is no charge to attend but pre-registration is necessary. To view scheduled locations and to register go to www.sba.gov/me and click on NEW First-Stop Business Information Seminars, or call Marilyn Geroux at 622-8382.