Starting and running a business can feel lonely, especially when you’re facing decisions about financing, marketing, legal requirements and taxes for the first time. But there’s a surprising amount of free help available to entrepreneurs, much of it supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Taking advantage of these resources can save you money, help you avoid costly mistakes and connect you with experienced advisors.
SCORE
SCORE is a nonprofit network of volunteer business mentors, many of whom are current or retired executives and business owners with decades of experience. It’s supported by the SBA and has chapters across the country.
Mentoring through SCORE is free and confidential. You can be matched with a mentor who has experience relevant to your industry or challenges, and meet in person, by phone or by video. Many entrepreneurs work with the same mentor over time, building a relationship as their business grows.
SCORE also offers free and low-cost workshops and webinars on topics like starting a business, marketing, finance and technology. Its website provides templates and tools, including business plan templates and financial projection spreadsheets.
Small Business Development Centers
Small Business Development Centers, or SBDCs, provide free one-on-one business advising and low-cost training. They’re often hosted by universities, colleges and state economic development agencies, with locations nationwide, and are funded in part by the SBA.
SBDC advisors can help with a wide range of topics, including writing business plans, understanding financing options and preparing loan applications, marketing and market research, financial management, and exporting and international trade. Many SBDCs also offer specialized help for specific industries or technologies.
Women’s Business Centers
SBA-supported Women’s Business Centers offer training, counseling and resources with a focus on helping women entrepreneurs start and grow businesses, including those who may face barriers to accessing capital or training. Many centers serve all business owners regardless of gender. Services may include business planning, financial management, marketing and access to networking opportunities.
Veterans Business Outreach Centers
Veterans Business Outreach Centers help veterans, service members transitioning to civilian life and military spouses start and grow businesses. They offer training, counseling, mentoring and referrals. Programs like Boots to Business, an entrepreneurial training program offered through the SBA, help transitioning service members explore business ownership.
Free financing guidance
Understanding your financing options is one of the most valuable things these resources offer. Advisors can explain SBA-guaranteed loans, microloans, grants, crowdfunding and other options, and help you prepare the documents lenders typically request, such as a business plan, financial statements and projections.
The SBA also offers Lender Match, an online tool that connects small businesses with participating lenders. Be cautious of anyone charging fees to help you access SBA loans or grants, since legitimate SBA resource partners provide this guidance free or at low cost.
Other local resources
Public libraries often offer free access to business databases with market research, industry reports and company information that would otherwise be expensive. Many libraries also host workshops for entrepreneurs.
Chambers of commerce and local business associations provide networking, advocacy, events and sometimes educational programs. Community colleges often offer affordable entrepreneurship courses and small business programs. State and local economic development agencies may offer grants, incentives, training and guidance on permits and licensing.
Local governments can explain licensing, zoning and permit requirements for your business. Many states offer a single online portal for business registration and licensing.
Online learning
The SBA’s Learning Platform offers free online courses on topics such as planning, launching, managing and growing a business. These self-paced courses let you learn on your own schedule.
How to get the most from free help
Come prepared with specific questions and goals. Advisors can help most when you clearly explain your business, your challenges and what you want to accomplish.
Bring relevant documents, such as a draft business plan, financial information or marketing materials, so advisors can give specific feedback.
Follow up and build relationships. Many entrepreneurs meet with advisors or mentors repeatedly as their business evolves, benefiting from ongoing guidance.
Use multiple resources. Different organizations offer different expertise, so you might work with a SCORE mentor on strategy while attending SBDC workshops on financial management.
Find help near you
The SBA’s website includes a tool to find local SBDCs, SCORE chapters, Women’s Business Centers, Veterans Business Outreach Centers and SBA district offices. Entering your ZIP code shows the resources available in your area. With so much free expertise available, no entrepreneur needs to figure everything out alone.
Content on The Evergreen Edit is for educational and informational purposes only and is not individualized financial, investment, tax or legal advice. Learn more.
This article is for educational purposes only and isn't personalized financial, tax or legal advice. Consider talking with a qualified professional about your situation.
Kiara Miller — Founder & Editor
Kiara Miller is the founder and editor of The Evergreen Edit. He has been doing independent finance research for two decades and reviews every article before it's published.
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