Patricia Barela Rivera - Colorado District Director - U.S. Small Business Administration
Patricia Barela Rivera is the State of Colorado District Director for the U.S. Small Business Administration. She is responsible for and manages the implementation of key economic and outreach programs committed to providing quality customer-oriented, full service programs and information to the small business community, lenders, resource partners, and the minority and women's communities. The main focus is to assist small businesses in their formation and growth in order to be a key part of the state's economy. In 2002, under her direction the Colorado District Office received SBA national recognition "The Administrator's Award for Excellence for the Greatest Increase in Emerging Markets".
Prior to being the SBA District Director, she was the director for Citizen Advocacy and Outreach in the Governor's office. She also managed the Governor?s Advocate Corp which is the primary constituent/citizen services office for the State of Colorado. She oversaw statewide community outreach programs and special projects, such as the Governor's Diversity Plan.
Ms. Rivera was the President/Owner of PBR & Associates Inc., a successful management consulting and training firm. She is nationally known for her motivational, professional development seminars and keynote addresses. Particularly in the areas of leadership, diversity issues, management and human resources.
