Business

Start an Eco-Friendly Business

Resources for start ups and entrepreneurs

• Learn about Starting a Green Business
• Read the Green Guide for New Businesses
• Get Energy Saving Tips and Resources
• Read about Successful Green Businesses

If you are thinking of starting a small business, or already own a small business, several free counseling and training programs are available to help you get started and expand your operations.

Services cover all aspects of starting and running a business, from getting loans and financing to start or expand to developing business plans and marketing strategies.

On the Web

If you are just getting started, your first stop online should be the U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) Small Business Planner. This guide provides information developing business plans, and steps to take to start, manage and sell or close a business.

For specific information about starting and managing a business in your state and local area, visit our State and Local Business Guide.

SBA offers numerous online tools and resources to help new and aspiring business owners succeed:

• Start Up Assessment Tool
  This assessment tool is designed to help you better understand your readiness for starting a small business. It is simple to use and will take less than 5 minutes to complete.
• Free Online Training
  Over 25 free at-your-own-pace courses on a number of timely business topics, including how to start a business, writing a business plan, financing, government contracting, marketing and more.
• Delivering Success Videos
  Successful entrepreneurs share the lessons they've learned about starting and managing small businesses.
• Small Business Podcasts
  SBA professionals and entrepreneurs provide expert advice on starting, financing and running a successful business.
• Monthly Web Chats
  Transcripts of online chats with leading entrepreneurs and business experts on a number of small business topics.

Local In-Person Services

The following programs provide local in-person counseling and training services for small business owners. Services cover all aspects of starting and running a business, from getting loans and financing to start or expand to developing business plans and marketing strategies.

• Small Business Development Centers
  Located throughout the U.S., these SBA-supported programs provide free start-up advice, training and counseling services for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
• SBA District Offices
  Find counseling, training and business development specialists who provide free and low-cost services in your area.
  
• SCORE - Service Corps of Retired Executives Association
  A non-profit organization and SBA resource partner dedicated to offering free mentoring, business counseling, and low-cost workshops in locations throughout the United States.
• Women's Business Centers [PDF File]
  A national network of more than 100 educational resource centers designed to assist women start and grow small businesses.
• Minority Business Development Centers
  Provides free business consulting services and financial management advice to minority-owned businesses throughout the U.S. Supported by the U.S. Department of Commerce.