Small Business Resources Available to Help Get Started, Grow
Small business resources are available to help you get your business move from an idea to a reality. Or, if you’ve already gotten started, they can help you in the process of growing your company. Here are some of the best small business resources available, most available for free or low-cost.
Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Western Washington University’s SBDC provides small businesses with confidential advising, training, and resources to help local entrepreneurs thrive. The SBDC can help you with developing a business plan, obtaining financing, managing cash flow and handling HR concerns, all at no cost.
Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)
SCORE is a national nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs through face-to-face advising and confidential counselling. The office serving Whatcom county is based in Seattle, but they can connect you with a local mentor.
Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber of Commerce states they’re there to guide you to needed resources such as real estate options, permitting, employment, marketing, vendor referrals and more. They also offer a number of networking opportunities to connect with other local businesses.
NW Workforce Council
The NW Workforce Council is an organization serving Whatcom and other nearby counties with workforce issues. They can provide help with on-the-job training, “upskilling” your existing workers, intern programs, navigating layoffs and more. The Council also provides connection with Washington WorkSource.
Other Small Business Resources
Business.WA.Gov offers free workshops on starting or growing a business, along with a guide to other resources. As well, they can help steer you through the permitting process.
The Washington State Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises leads the Statewide M/WBE program as the sole agency that certifies minority- and women-owned business enterprises to participate in public contracting and procurement. The program includes a comprehensive certification process as well as small business support services.
Links
The Downtown Bellingham Partnership brings downtown businesses together for common support and action in the heart of the city.
Lastly, you can learn more about our services here!
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