Some Brilliant Assistance
Even when we go it alone we are seldom without help. From books to software to websites, young entrepreneurs are surrounded by a thousand resources dedicated to aiding them in their private quests. All the combined wisdom and experience of the generations which have come before is available to you…for a price. That’s why Tuesdays are dedicated to the tools of trade. Check here every Tuesday for reviews, previews, comparisons, and exposés on the vital organizations, support networks, and products relevant to you and your burgeoning enterprise.
From strangers to parents, friends to neighbors, start-up owners seem to be blessed with no end of cheerful advisors. Every one and his brother is happy to tell you what he thinks you should do and what he thinks will work best. Sometimes this advice is poignant; sometimes it is misleading. One source of advice, however, is guaranteed. One advisor not only has your best interest at heart but intimate experience with the start-up of tens of thousands of small businesses. This advisor is the SBA.
The US Small Business Administration maintains offices in every major city in the country, accompanied by business oriented libraries and local representatives who are willing to provide one-on-one advice and assistance to any small business start-up. www.sba.gov contains nationwide resources and links alongside free online learning courses.
More than links and contact information, however, the SBA’s contribution can come in the form the SBA advisors. From aiding you in writing your business plan to putting you in contact with local venture capitalists and lenders, an SBA rep is an invaluable assistant. The SBA advisors are real people, with real, on the ground, knowledge of the local business environment and the local economy. Your SBA rep may be the only person who will explain the real risks inherent in your venture in clear, concise terms.
Whether you are working on a website or a charity, a storefront or a co-op, go down to your local SBA office and ask for help. Lean on you rep for advice, listen to your rep’s warnings, and accept your rep’s aid and the future of your small business will be brighter.
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