Stephanie Robey, Outreach Program Coordinator, Small Business Development Center (SBDC) State Office, was chosen by her peers as the Wisconsin network’s 2025 State Star.
In her award nomination, Robey was described as demonstrating dedication and innovation and exemplifying team spirit. She has helped numerous clients, employees, and stakeholders throughout the years by developing internal and external newsletters and replying to Business AnswerLine requests. She is always ready to step up, including during crucial marketing and communications transitions when she took on responsibilities such as creating social media posts and reports as well as managing event coordination and rebranding efforts.
“Stephanie Robey’s work has significantly elevated the visibility and impact of the SBDC network,” said Gina Ferraro, SBDC Wisconsin State Director. “Her careful editing eye ensures our communications are clear and professional – whether she’s crafting client success stories, managing newsletters, or reviewing important documents. Stephanie’s precision and dedication make her an invaluable asset and a State Star.”
Robey’s writing and editing skills are respected by the network, especially when it comes to compiling the SBDC Self Study for accreditation and telling more than 100 varied Success Stories. These skills and a passion for storytelling have led her to expand into writing for the Go Global and Mainstreet Bounceback programs as well as writing cross-unit successes for the Office of Business & Entrepreneurship (OBE). Each client is unique, and Stephanie knows how to showcase the best in each of them.
“Working with the SBDC has allowed me to meet many great stakeholders and business owners over the years,” stated Robey. “I love interviewing clients! The excitement in their voices as they describe their entrepreneurial journeys and how they overcame obstacles to make their dreams come true is a highlight of my role. I am honored to share the small business insights and all the great benefits these entrepreneurs are proud to bring to their local economies and communities.”
Robey was recognized for her willingness to go the extra mile to help the SBDC network staff and clients. She is a reliable resource, routinely answering questions from the network about process and logistics. Robey’s work is often on the backend, including handling onboarding tasks, processing registrations and purchases, and creating and maintaining accurate data in CRMs. She serves on multiple committees and teams that are dedicated to promoting the Wisconsin SBDC Network.
Robey earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Illinois State University and a master’s degree in written communication from National Louis University. Outside of her work with the SBDC, Stephanie is also a 500-hour yoga certified instructor. Since 2018, she has also earned certifications in meditation, pranayama, mindfulness, and social emotional learning.
The Wisconsin Small Business Development (SBDC) Network offers no-cost, confidential consulting and business education to new and existing businesses through centers across the state. In 2024, the SBDC served 5,354 clients, resulting in $117 million in capital investment, 289 new businesses, and 18,938 jobs supported.
The Wisconsin SBDC is a nationally accredited member of America’s SBDC, which traditionally honors State Stars each fall during its national conference. Past Wisconsin State Stars include Anne Inman (2024, Accounting and Projection Clinic program manager and senior business consultant, SBDC at UW-Madison); David Stauffacher (2023, consultant, SBDC at UW-Green Bay); and Harlie Juedes (2022, interim center director, SBDC at UW-Eau Claire).
About the Wisconsin SBDC
The Wisconsin Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a nationally accredited statewide network supporting entrepreneurs and business owners through no-cost, confidential consulting and business education. Regional SBDC experts facilitate improvement and growth for small and emerging mid-size companies and help launch successful new enterprises. The Wisconsin SBDC is hosted by the Universities of Wisconsin within the Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship. It is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. www.wisconsinSBDC.org