Small Business Assistance & Training

Several free counseling and training programs are available to help you get started and expand your small business. These services cover all aspects of starting and running a business, from getting a loan to developing business plans and marketing strategies.

Online Tools & Resources

Your first stop to finding help with starting and managing your small business should be the Online Small Business Community.
This community brings together entrepreneurs, small business owners,
industry and government experts to share and discuss business issues
and questions.

The SBA offers numerous online tools and resources to help new and aspiring business owners succeed:

Start Up Assessment Tool
This simple assessment tool is designed to help you better understand your readiness for starting a small business. Takes less than 5 minutes to complete.
Free Online Training
Free at-your-own-pace courses on a number of timely business topics, including starting a business, writing a business plan, and more.
Delivering Success Videos
Successful entrepreneurs share the lessons they’ve learned about starting and managing small businesses.
Small Business Podcasts
Expert advice on starting, financing and running a successful business.
Monthly Web Chats
Transcripts of online chats with leading entrepreneurs and business experts.

In-Person Services Near You

The following programs provide local in-person counseling and training services for small business owners. Services cover all aspects of starting and running a business, from getting loans and financing to start or expand to developing business plans and marketing strategies.

Entrepreneurial Spirit

In this video, Warren Brown, 2020 SBA Washington D.C.’s Small Business Person of the Year, talks about the resources he used to help get started.

Small Business Development Centers
Free start-up advice, training and counseling services for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
SBA District Offices
Counseling, training and business development specialists who provide free and low-cost services in your area.
SCORE – Service Corps of Retired Executives Association
Free mentoring, business counseling, and low-cost workshops in locations throughout the United States
Small Manufacturing Businesses – Training and Assistance Programs
Free and low-cost services to help small manufacturers start, grow and succeed.
Women’s Business Centers
Educational resource centers designed to assist women start and grow small businesses.
Minority Business Development Centers
Free business consulting services and financial management advice to minority-owned businesses throughout the U.S.