Small Business Solutions
Business Consulting and Education Programs
- Small Business Development Center (SBDC): The SBDC offers no-fee consulting and other services for any business wanting to start, plan, or grow. They offer consultations by appointment, as well as a Start Smart Workshop series for new business owners.
- The Advancement Foundation (TAF): A non-profit organization that provides infrastructure, support, and business assistance resources to create an effective local entrepreneurial ecosystem. TAF offers numerous initiatives such as the GAUNTLET business development program & competition, the Innovation Mill, the HIVE business incubation center, Biz NATION, and more.
- Shenandoah Community Capital Fund aims to connect people, cultivate ideas, and provide access to capital. Get the assistance you need by talking through your idea in one-on-one counseling, getting your idea on paper with SCCF’s 8-week business planning course, getting connected with a mentor, or learning practical business skills through a Tuesday Tips workshop. You can also sign up for one-on-one training tailored to your business idea with the Director of Education and Marketing.
- Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project (SERCAP) is a non-profit organization that delivers programs to support small business owners’ unique needs, including the Entrepreneurial Learning Initiative (ELI) and a small business loan program.
- The SCORE Association, “Counselors to America’s Small Business”, is a nonprofit association comprised of 13,000+ volunteer business counselors throughout the U.S. and its territories. Small businesses can receive technical assistance and guidance from trained SCORE mentors at no cost to the small business.
Business Tools
- Small Business Administration (SBA) is a vital resource for businesses and entrepreneurs in the United States. At its core, the SBA aims to empower small businesses through various forms of support, guidance, and resources. On its website, the SBA offers a plethora of tools and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of small businesses, including loans and funding, business counseling and training, resources and guides, an Online Learning Platform, and other forms of assistance.
- Valley Business Compass helps Shenandoah Valley entrepreneurs find what and who they need when they need it. The Valley Business Compass brings the network of resources and organizations in the Shenandoah Valley entrepreneurial ecosystem into a single platform for entrepreneurs, investors, community members, and anyone else looking to get connected.