We are fortunate to live at time when there is an abundant wealth of resources to educate, stimulate, and accelerate entrepreneurs. Here are some of my favorites to get you started. Depending on your needs and the kind of business you wish to launch, do as much online research as possible to utilize the resources most pertinent for you.
1. Small Business Association (www.sba.gov) is far more than a lending resource. The SBA is an independent agency that aids, counsels, assists, and protects the interests of small businesses. From providing resource guides to workshops and tool kits to help you start your business, the SBA is a valuable resource for every small business.
2. National Association of the Self-Employed (www.nase.org) is the largest nonprofit, nonpartisan business association in the country. It provides small business owners with the everyday support most entrepreneurs need, including access to experts, educational benefits and resources, information on funding, and the privileges and buying power of a large organization. Information on their website will also keep you up to date with any imminent changes that could affect your business. And there is a funding part of the organization as well. It is the largest nonprofit, nonpartisan association in the country.
3. National Federation of Independent Business (www.nfib .com) is a network of more than 300,000 independent business owners in all fifty states and Washington, DC. Their mission statement: “To promote and protect your right to own, operate and grow your business.” It is the leading advocacy group for small business owners, and in addition to their advocacy they offer business products and services for small businesses at discounted rates.
4. Score (www.score.org) is a mentor-matching program where new business owners are paired up with volunteer mentors who have a wealth of information and years of experience.
5. LivePlan (www.liveplan.com) offers business plan software to assist you in putting your plan together. Many different types of software are available for constructing your business plan. If LivePlan isn’t viable for your purposes, then keep searching for the right software for your venture.
6. Small Business Trends (www.smallbiztrends.com) is an award-winning online publication for small business owners with articles that help you take your business to the next level. With articles and ideas on how to use technology, maximize marketing, build your brand, and handle financial situations, this is an invaluable resource for your ongoing entrepreneurial education.
7. Entrepreneur (www.entrepreneur.com) offers both a print and digital magazine that provides small business owners with ideas, advice, inspiration, and strategies to help grow your business.
8. Black Enterprise (www.blackenterprise.com) first began as a premier business news and investment resource for African Americans, but now the magazine and website have grown to be so much more. The BlackEnterprise.com website delivers all the information and inspirational stories the magazine has been providing since 1970 (and still does). While the magazine is monthly, the website is updated constantly, so you should check it frequently for the latest news and resources for your business interests.