The City of Spokane  this week launched a new Spokane Business Center on the main floor of City Hall. It came about after a survey of area small businesses learned many wanted a simpler system for interaction with city staff and city agencies.

The main goal will be easier access to resources to help startups get information and to help growing businesses stay focused on reducing red tape.

The center's main thrusts are:

• To provide  self-help information including a current listing of business workshops and networking events.
• To connect businesses with partner organizations that can help with business planning, marketing, counseling, and capital.
• To provide a resource guide on startup information and business development assistance. This information also will be attached to every business license mailed and each on-line license application

Anyone who's used the center so far, let us know how you rate the level of service.

Spokane Mayor Mary Verner is hosting a “Let’s Talk” conversation focused on small business and its challenges on Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the city council chambers in City Hall, 808 W. Spokane Falls Blvd.

Three area small business owners will talk about their challenges during the recession. Others are invited to take part.

The city will also release results from a recent survey that asked questions about the impact of economic conditions, workforce issues, access to capital, and local government’s role.

CityCable 5 will carry the 90-minute session live. It will also be streamed live on www.spokanecity.org under the “Watch It Live” section for CityCable5.

City spokeswoman Marlene Feist said the mayor held a series of business talks in 2008. Wih the economy still weak, “we decided to go back to look at where are there impediments to small business and are there any places where the city can place renewed focus?” she said.