It has often been said, in part because it remains as true today as it ever has, that small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities, and by extension, our entire nation.

Although we rely upon the large corporations for employment and goods and services, it is the small to midsize family or locally controlled businesses that really drive our economy.

But operating a small business can be a daunting task with owners often feeling like they have no sounding board or resources at their disposal.

The Southern Ohio Procurement Outreach Center hopes to change that through the latest in its series of small business workshops that are designed to showcase some success stories and let business owners know about some of the resources that are available.

The workshop, set for Sept. 15 at Shawnee State University, still has room for about 75 people. Registration is available at http://sopoc.eccenterdirect.com/. The cost is $10 per person and anyone interested can walk in the day of the event.

Even during difficult economic times small businesses must find a way to thrive and survive. Our economy depends on it and our communities depend on.

The procurement center is doing its part to help out.