Small Business Associations Offer a Wealth of Resources

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The difference between this and home business associations (HBA's) is basically one of breadth. A small business CAN be (but does not HAVE to be) home based. It can be established just about anywhere. So the information within a small biz association can basically benefit both. Home business associations, by contrast, have a more narrow focus on businesses conducted largely from home.

Below I've listed a short list of some of my favorite links to small business associations...


The Small Business Administration (SBA)

The SBA is the U.S. government's version of a small business association for entrepreneurs. Need a small business loan or wonder what kind of U.S. government assistance is available for your small business? The SBA is a massive resource where entrepreneurs can go to research SBA loans; SBA grants; contract opportunities; disaster assistance; online business training; counseling and assistance; small business resources for minorities; laws and regulations; and questions about compliance concerning those laws and regulations.

The SBA website provides everything from how to PLAN a small business to providing resources for FUNDING a small business to advice on how to SELL a small business. The Small Business Administration also has district branches located in one or more cities within most states, to make the SBA more accessible to you.


SmallBusinessAdvocate.com

This is one of a handful of very cool small business associations websites. It has informational resources that date from present day and goes back to 2003. The founder, Jim Blsingame, is an internet / radio talkshow host whose format is all about small business.

What's cool and unique about this website is that not only are there tons of articles about anything you want to know about small business, but also audio links to listen to Jim's archived radio talk shows. ...Listen as Jim talks with some of the heavyweights of the business world. And if you visit the website at the right time, you can even listen in on a LIVE broadcast!

In fact, according to the website, 96% of the US chamber of Commerce's membership are from companies with less than 100 employees.

The Washington headquarters employs over 300 representatives of American business interests in the form of lobbyists, attorneys, policy experts and communications staff. According to the website, "Our core mission is to fight for business and free enterprise before Congress, the White House, regulatory agencies, the courts, the court of public opinion, and governments around the world."


International Council for Small Business

Another of the great small business associations websites. This organization is unique because it's a hub of worldwide small business owners. Members can network and get international perspectives on their specific area of business interest, not just in your own country, but across the world. You'd be amazed how a culturally diverse perspective may help YOUR business!