Running your own business is a big task, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Here are a variety of online resources providing free information on many different valuable topics.
SBA, sba.gov
Since 1958, the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) has been dedicated to the success of small businesses. Their resources include:
- Guaranteed Loan Programs (Debt Financing)
- Surety Bonds
- Venture Capitalist Program
- Connections for Government Contracts
Their website also includes a library of free webinars covering marketing, management, starting new business, finances, and more.
SBA Disaster Planning, sba.gov/content/disaster-planning
25 percent of businesses do not reopen following a major disaster. Protect your business by identifying the risks associated with natural and man-made disasters. Then, create a plan for action should a disaster strike. By keeping those plans updated, you can help ensure the survival of your business.
SCORE, score.org
SCORE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides free business mentoring services to entrepreneurs in the United States. Volunteer mentors can provide insight on everything from the basics of business start up to improving relationships with customers to achieving reasonable work/life balance. Mentors can be found both online and in person at local SCORE chapters.
OSHA, osha.gov/dcsp/smallbusiness/
OSHA is the main federal agency charged with the enforcement of safety and health legislation. This link goes to the small business section of the site, which includes a Quick Start tool which helps to introduce employers to the regulations relevant to their businesses.
NFIB, nfib.com
National Federation of Independent Business is America’s leading small business association, promoting and protecting the right of our members to own, operate, and grow their businesses. Its resource section offer up information on a wide variety of business-related topics, including insurance, legal help, staffing issues, marketing, accounting and more.
Small Business, smallbusiness.com
Small Business provides a steady flow of information, insight and inspiration for small business owners and operators.
Small Business Information, sbinformation.about.com
Small business information for start-ups and existing businesses. Everything you need to run a successful small business.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Nation, uschambersmallbusinessnation.com
Free membership option includes:
- Access to the Small Business Nation Blog
- The Startup Rundown, a weekly email newsletter with updates on important economic, political, and regulatory issues
- Free resources including a 2016 business tax calendar
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce member webstickers
Premium membership option includes:
- All free membership benefits
- 500 customizable legal documents through Rocket Lawyer
- FedEx shipping discounts
- A full member packet and resource guide
- A store decal to show you’ve joined Small Business Nation
