** To see FREE Workshops or make an appointment for FREE one-on-one counseling, go here to see what's available in your area **



United States Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) was created in 1953 as an independent agency of the federal government to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns, to preserve free competitive enterprise and to maintain and strengthen the overall economy of our nation. We recognize that small business is critical to our economic recovery and strength, to building America's future, and to helping the United States compete in today's global marketplace. Although SBA has grown and evolved in the years since it was established in 1953, the bottom line mission remains the same. The SBA helps Americans start, build and grow businesses. Through an extensive network of field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations, SBA delivers its services to people throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, the U. S. Virgin Islands and Guam.

http://www.sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner/index.html




Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network

Boston Regional Office & Minority Business Center provides entrepreneurs a network of resources to help them meet business challenges. Their office provides a full range of FREE business advising and low-cost training activities. Successful entrepreneurs continually seek ways to improve the management and operation of their business, often seeking outside advice to help with particular challenges. SBDC services to assist entrepreneurs include, but are not limited to:

  • Developing effective business plans
  • Business organization and structure
  • Evaluation of alternative financing strategies
  • Goal formation and achievement
  • Management information systems: financial, personnel, process and organization

Services are available to start-ups and existing businesses. We offer technical assistance through free one-on-one business advising as well as nominal cost educational workshops and seminars. 

http://www.sbdc.umb.edu/publications.html



SCORE
SCORE, the nation’s largest volunteer business counseling service, is a nonprofit association dedicated to help those in business, about to start one, or just thinking about it. Founded in 1964, SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration.


Over 50 counselors participate in Boston’s SCORE chapter and their combined experience and knowledge could match most Business School faculties. The confidential counseling is FREE plus there are modestly priced seminars in the Greater Boston area. Our primary goal is to create an on-going relationship with small business entrepreneurs to help them make good business decisions to foster successes, which lead to profits.

http://www.scoreboston.org/ 



RESOURCES FOR YOUTH