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Free professional business consulting for startups
The Washburn SBDC provides free, confidential, one-on-one consulting to entrepreneurs who are exploring or planning on starting a small business. Our consultants are experienced in helping entrepreneurs develop business ideas, write business plans, and access capital to get started. All consulting services are provided free of charge.
Developing a Business Idea
Do you have an idea for a business startup but are not sure whether you should explore the possibilities? It helps to speak with a professional consultant that can discuss the different components of a feasible business and guide you to resources to research your business idea.
SBDC Training Seminar: Researching Your Business Idea
Writing a Business Plan
Thinking strategically about your business startup and the plan to guide you through the early stages of your business is critical to your success. Besides, you need to write a business plan if you are going to access a business loan to start your business! The Washburn SBDC can help. Our consultants have written and reviewed hundreds of plans and have access to the best tools and resources to help you write a professional plan.
SBDC Training Seminar: Writing a Business Plan
Developing a Cash Flow Budget
Every startup entrepreneur should work-up a cash flow budget to help plan and measure the financial operations of the startup. Are financial numbers difficult for you? Don’t worry, SBDC consultants have access to tools to make this process easier and, even better, they take the time to explain the numbers to you.
SBDC Training Seminar: Keeping the Books
Finding Sources of Capital and Financing
You have a good idea for a business but are unsure what your financing options are? The Washburn SBDC is a good place to start. We can speak with you confidentially about your options and help you find the best resource for your situation. We know the best small business friendly banks and can answer your questions about SBA guaranteed loan programs.
Registering your Business
Before speaking with your attorney or accountant, it helps to review what your options are for registering and protecting your business. The Washburn SBDC has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs navigate the regulatory process, and directing them to the best resources for assistance.
SBDC Training Seminar: Legal Registration Requirements
Buying a Business or Franchise
Buying a business or franchise can be one of the best ways to get started as an entrepreneur, but make sure you are asking yourself and the seller the right questions and completing your due diligence. The Washburn SBDC can help!
Tools and Resources (a few of the resources available)
- James J Hill Reference Library. Washburn SBDC consultants have access to the James J Hill Reference Library, considered one of the most comprehensive business libraries in the country.
- SBDCNET. Washburn SBDC consultants have access to the Small Business Development Center National Information Clearinghouse (SBDCNET), providing small business research for SBDC consultants and their clients.
- PitchthenPlan™. Clients of the Washburn SBDC can access PitchthenPlan™; the online business planning tool that helps clients translate business ideas into business plans.
- Bizcomps® Studies. Before buying an existing business, make sure you are paying a fair price. Washburn SBDC consultants use Bizcomps® databases to help clients determine the comparable worth of a business that they are exploring buying.