Thinking of starting a business and not sure how to begin? Have an existing business and need some guidance to help grow? You are in luck! There are two agencies ready to offer free expert help to businesses in Michigan.
The Michigan Small Business Development Center (MI-SBDC) and SCORE offer free business mentoring and counseling as well as providing business education opportunities. Small business owners who receive three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased growth.
The MI-SBDC helps small businesses launch, grow, transition, and innovate. They provide counseling, training and research for new ventures, existing small businesses, and advanced technology companies. Offering free, personalized, one-on-one business counseling, MI-SBDC helps small business owners with growth strategies and planning. In addition, no-cost and low-cost training sessions offer the opportunity to learn more about running and growing your business. With eleven regional offices and more than 20 satellite offices, MI-SBDC provides entrepreneurs and business owners convenient access to counseling and training throughout Michigan. Services include business plan development, market research, financial management, accessing capital, and business workshops. To learn more, register for a workshop or request business counseling, visit MI-SBDC at sbdcmichigan.org.
SCORE is the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, with more than 10,000 volunteers in 300 chapters. Their mission is to Foster vibrant small business communities through mentoring and education. Since SCORE is a nonprofit resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), mentoring services are free, regardless of the number of times you visit a mentor. Mentors are experienced in all aspects and stages of business development, whether you’re thinking of starting a business or growing your existing company. In addition, SCORE provides multiple workshops and webinars to help elevate your business knowledge. Find a mentor or register for a workshop through SCORE at SCORE.org.
For more information about these agencies and other business resources, contact Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance, 269-781-5163.