Small Business Resources Available

Today’s small business owners are fortunate to have a multitude of resources available to help them start, run, and grow their business, including government programs and agencies that provide free assistance through education, information, advice, funding, and more. Take your business to the next level with the resources available to you at the local, state and federal levels.

To begin your search, start by simply searching “small business resources” near me. This is one of the best ways to gain access to local grants and programs that could benefit your business. Be sure to sign up for small business related newsletters as well as your state and local municipalities newsletter for information on available funds and educational tools.

Here is a list of 7 free top government resources for small business.

SCORE

SCORE is a nonprofit association supported by the SBA that focuses on mentoring and education. Using SCORE, you can connect with volunteer mentors and get confidential business counseling. You can also expand your knowledge through local workshops, online webinars, and other tools, templates, and tips.

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Small Business Administration

The SBA was created in 1958 to help small businesses and protect the interest of small business owners. They offer access to loans and grants, an online learning center that provides education on business topics, and local assistance through regional offices.

Small Business Development Centers

America’s SBDC is a group of nearly 1,000 service centers that offer local small business assistance throughout the United States. The centers provide free in-person business consulting on topics like writing business plans, accessing capital, marketing, regulatory compliance, technology development, and more. They also offer low-cost training and hold an annual conference.

BusinessUSA

BusinessUSA was started by President Obama in 2011 and is a website that features online resources for all aspects of business as well as a training portal where you can access online training, videos, and online chat. They also feature countless events around the country every day, and a free app that will notify you of local events and opportunities.

Export.gov

For small business owners who want to take their business global, Export.gov has resources, training, and counseling to help you begin exporting or take your exporting to the next level, including an Export Assistance Center to get help from local trade specialists and exporting offices.

IRS Small Business Portal

This section of the IRS website is dedicated to helping small business owners with their tax questions. You’ll find information on preparing your taxes, filing taxes, paying taxes, and other important tax information for each stage of owning a business.

United States Patent and Trademark Office

USPTO is a federal agency that grants patents and trademarks. Their resources will help you understand the process and file for your own patent or trademark to protect your business’s ideas and products.

As a small business owner, it is important to remember that you are not alone in starting and growing your business. Keep these free resources in mind and get the help you need!