SBA
The U.S. Small Business Administration has delivered millions of loans, loan guarantees, contracts, counseling sessions and other forms of assistance to small businesses. Below are a few of the resources available through the SBA and links to view further information.
SBA 8(a) Business Development Program
The 8(a) Business Development Program is an assistance program designed specifically for disadvantages small businesses. The 8(a) Program presents an extensive capacity of assistance to firms that are at least 51% controlled and owned by disadvantaged individuals both socially and economically.
HUBZones
HUBZones (Historically Underutilized Business Zones) offers a program that assists small businesses in urban and rural communities. It helps small businesses obtain access to federal procurement opportunities.
FREE Online Courses by the SBA
Variety of free courses online to guide small business when developing and managing different aspects of small business.
SCORE
SCORE serves the nation’s largest, system of free, expert business mentors that can provide the necessary tools, education, and plan of action for small businesses to build a customer base. The volunteer mentors are available as well to assist existing small businesses to identify strategies to increase profit, and customer and employee satisfaction.
Export Assistance Center
Worldwide commerce is much more achievable for small businesses with advances in technology. The U.S. Export Assistance Center provides the possibilities for small businesses to export goods and services worldwide. These assistance centers are located in large metropolitan areas across the United States.
Women’s Business Centers
Women’s Business Centers (WBCs) are available throughout the United States with a network of over 100 educational centers designed to assist women in starting and growing small businesses. The mission of WBCs is to “level the playing field” for women entrepreneurs, who come into contact with obstacles in the business sphere.
Veteran’s Business Outreach
The Veteran’s Business Outreach Centers grant an array of business development services to Veterans, DVBE, Reservists, and Guard Members in their actions to begin or grow a business initiative.
