America’s entrepreneurs not only contribute greatly to their local communities, but they are also drivers of the national economy as a whole. That, in and of itself, is worth celebrating. November is National Entrepreneurship Month in the U.S. It is a time to applaud the achievements of the small business community. But it is also an opportunity to position current and future small business owners for success in the years ahead. That is the mission of the SBA. We offer a variety of resources that entrepreneurs can leverage to help them start and grow their businesses.
- SBA Resource Partners: When your goal is to build a business from scratch, or take the one you have to the next level, you need people in your corner who have been there before. That is what you’ll find in an SBA Resource Partner like SCORE. SCORE mentors provide no-cost counseling and a wide range of services such as training and webinars. You can also enlist the help of your local Small Business Development Center, Veterans Business Outreach Center, or Women’s Business Center. For those in underserved communities, the Community Navigator Pilot Program can connect you to financial assistance, industry-specific training, and more.
- Funding Programs: All small business owners have to start somewhere. For many, it begins with obtaining funding through the SBA. With guaranteed loans, the SBA reduces risk for lenders, ultimately enabling easier access to capital. SBA-guaranteed loans carry competitive terms and unique benefits such as lower down payments and flexible overhead requirements. Once you’ve calculated your startup costs, just use the Lender Match tool to find a lender that is right for you. The SBA can also connect small business owners with investors through licensed Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs).
- Learning Platform: Entrepreneurs reach their full potential when they are empowered and educated. To that end, the SBA’s digital learning programs can give America’s small business owners the tools and know-how they need to launch their businesses and see them thrive. SBA Learning Center courses teach the ins and outs of business ownership, from market research to day-to-day operations. Group-specific programs, such as Ascent for Women and Boots to Business for transitioning service members, are tailored toward helping their attendees navigate their unique entrepreneurial journeys. For established business owners, T.H.R.I.V.E. Emerging Leaders Reimagined is designed to accelerate growth.
America’s entrepreneurs have done great things, and with continued support, the sky is the limit. National Entrepreneurship Month is an excellent time to learn more about resources available to you at www.sba.gov.