Top 10 Resources for Small Business Owners in 2023
BY: Travis Bryenton
Every business needs resources, especially new businesses. I suggest you dive deeply into this list BEFORE starting your business in 2023.
# 1 - U.S. Small Business Administration
Possibly the most extensive set of resources comes from the Federal Government. They are your tax dollars, so get your money's worth! https://www.sba.gov/
Created in 1953, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continues to help small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small business and provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise as the nation’s only go-to resource and voice for small businesses."
#2 - The UGA Small Business Development Center
"The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides tools, training, and resources to help small businesses grow and succeed. Designated as one of Georgia’s top providers of small business assistance, the SBDC has 18 offices ranging from Rome to Valdosta to serve the needs of Georgia’s business community. Since 1977, our network of partners has helped construct a statewide ecosystem to foster the spirit, support, and success of hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs and innovators.
The Small Business Development Center, a Public Service and Outreach Extension of The University of Georgia, is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center is nationally accredited by the Association of SBDCs." https://www.georgiasbdc.org/
Download the UGA Start Up Basics Guide Here (Go Dawgs!)
#3 Score Atlanta Chapter
SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals. Since 1964, we have provided education and mentorship to more than 11 million entrepreneurs.
#4 Industry Trade Groups
Do not overlook Industry trade groups. Trade Groups often provide networking events and industry insights, and these groups also advocate for your industry on the legislative front. The best way to find industry-specific trade groups is through a google search of Linkedin.
#5 LinkedIn
LinkedIn is THE social network for working professionals. This is a great place to get industry-specific information, events, local resources, and networking. If you are not already on here, sign up today.
Founded in 2003, LinkedIn connects the world's professionals to make them more productive and successful. With more than 850 million members worldwide, including executives from every Fortune 500 company, LinkedIn is the world's largest professional network. The company has a diversified business model with revenue coming from Talent Solutions, Marketing Solutions, Sales Solutions and Premium Subscriptions products. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, LinkedIn has offices across the globe.
#6 IRS - Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center
What you will find here. Not that anybody loves paying taxes, but it is a significant aspect of your business. I would also recommend you find a good CPA.
Resources for taxpayers who file Form 1040 or 1040-SR, Schedules C, E, F or Form 2106, as well as small businesses with assets under $10 million.
#7 Facebook
Love it or Hate it; you still need it. Facebook is still one of the top dogs for getting your message out. Set up your business page and get posting! Learn how to Boost a post for more outreach and to grow your audience.
and Like my Facebook Page here -->> https://www.facebook.com/BuckheadTravis
#8 Small Business with Google
Google is still the King of Small Business and SEO (Search Engine Optimization); if you do not know the term, you will soon embrace it and nurture your inner SEO guru to build up a brand and people at your door
Click HERE for this Great Circleboom Blog Post
#9 Local Mentor
The internet is all great and all, but sometimes you just need a human to talk to. Find someone who has been there and is willing to help you. However, do not just take from them; find a way to give back or provide value to this person in your own way.
#10 Your Commercial Real Estate Agent - Me
All businesses need a home. Once you outgrow your garage or kitchen table, you will need a new home away from home. Some businesses need space right away to get going (retail stores, salons, automotive shops), and others can grow into that space over time. But no matter your timeframe, you will want a commercial agent (ME) to help you. Why? Save yourself time and money by using an expert. Leasing a space is a serious financial commitment for your business; often, this is a five-year commitment with a personal guarantee attached to it. You want to ensure this is done right! We help you save time and money by making sure you are prepared to hit the market. We do all the leg work to actually go see places, so you can concentrate on the other aspects of your business, like making money! And very importantly, we provide representation with the landlords that helps protect your business in ways you may not have thought of (because we have done this before).
The best part of this is that almost all the time, there is ZERO cost to you.
So the real question is, why would you go it alone?
