At the Birmingham Business Resource Center (BBRC), we believe that every entrepreneur deserves a real shot at success. That’s not just a slogan — it’s a mission grounded in decades of dedicated work by our founder and executive director, Bob Dickerson. If you’re wondering why BBRC exists, or how we make a difference, it starts with Bob’s story.
From A.G. Gaston to BBRC: Building Opportunity Through Business
Bob Dickerson began his career under the mentorship of Birmingham business legend Dr. A.G. Gaston. As a loan officer at Gaston’s Citizens Federal Savings Bank, Bob saw the power of access to capital — and the barriers too many business owners faced when trying to grow or even get started.
He understood that strong ideas and hard work weren’t enough without the right support. That realization led him to create something new: an organization that would not only connect entrepreneurs to funding, but also help them build the knowledge, systems, and confidence to thrive.
In 1996, Bob founded the Birmingham Business Resource Center, and it has since grown into one of the most impactful resources for small businesses in the region.
$1 Billion and Counting: What We’ve Accomplished Together
Under Bob’s leadership, BBRC has helped direct over $1 billion into the hands of local business owners. That includes loans, grants, investment partnerships, and recovery programs — all designed to support economic growth across Birmingham and surrounding communities.
Through initiatives like:
- Foundation Capital, our SBA 504 Certified Development Company,
- our microloan programs for startups and early-stage companies,
- partnerships with the City of Birmingham and local banks,
- and special programs like BhamStrong during the COVID-19 pandemic,
BBRC has provided access to capital and coaching to thousands of business owners — helping them launch, stabilize, or grow.
But money is only part of the equation. At BBRC, every business we serve also gets access to expert advice, training, and hands-on support to turn capital into sustainable success. That’s how we measure impact: not just in dollars, but in stronger businesses, new jobs, and long-term results.
Why BBRC Matters Right Now
Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. They create jobs, spark innovation, and bring life to our neighborhoods. But running a business today isn’t easy. Whether you’re facing rising costs, a tough loan environment, or the need to adapt to new markets — you shouldn’t have to go it alone.
That’s where BBRC comes in.
We help small businesses access funding, even when other doors are closed.
We provide practical, real-world support, not just theory.
We offer a complete approach — combining financing, planning, and mentorship — because a loan without guidance is just a liability.
Our programs are built for real businesses run by real people — from family-owned construction firms to neighborhood restaurants, startups, service providers, and everything in between.
What This Means for You
If you’re a business owner — or ready to become one — BBRC is your partner. Whether you need help getting your first loan, planning for growth, or solving a challenge in your operations, we’ve got you covered.
If you’re a lender, funder, or economic development partner, working with BBRC means putting your support behind a proven model that gets results. We have a decades-long track record of helping entrepreneurs succeed — and a deep understanding of how to drive meaningful growth in our local economy.
Bob’s Vision, Your Future
Bob Dickerson has spent his career making it easier for people to do what they love, build businesses, and invest in their communities. He’s helped move over $1 billion into the hands of business owners — but his greatest impact is seen in the shops, offices, and services that now enrich our city because someone had the chance to bring their idea to life.
At BBRC, we’re proud to carry that vision forward. And we invite you to be part of it.
