Best Small Business Resources in the Boulder Area

Description

The greatest strength of the SBDC is their free, confidential, 1-on-1 business mentoring for anyone who seeks it. Sometimes in order to be considered for mentoring from one of their professional business advisors, you may have to attend a class/workshop or at least present your business plan. SBDC's are located all throughout the state and you should use the SBDC closest to your location if possible, but you can often transfer to a different location if they do not fit your needs.

Description

Boomtown offers a 12-week long boot camp for your business. This camp helps entrepreneurs with all aspects of running a small business and includes mentorships and other resources that are available 24/7. Since the workshop helps you develop your business, Boomtown is most useful to those past the idea stage of entrepreneurship.

Restrictions

Tech startups in Boulder.

Description

BIBA provides a tightly-knit community of small businesses in Boulder County. They host workshop lunches on a wide variety of business topics, work to educate the community about the importance of shopping locally, and offer discounts on local promotions and space at community festivals. Many of these resources are most useful to entrepreneurs who are past the idea stage and have either launched their business or are getting ready to do so.

Restrictions

Locally owned and independent businesses within 60 miles of Boulder County.

Description

The public library has several databases on business and market research that would be useful to entrepreneurs. They also offer online courses on launching a startup. Appointments can be made with a librarian to learn how to utilize these resources most efficiently and effectively.

Restrictions

Library card required to access services.

Description

SCORE (Service Corp of Retired Executives) is a leading, nation-wide organization that has assisted millions of entrepreneurs over its 50+ years of operation. SCORE is a resource partner of the SBA that offers access to a network of experienced business leaders who donate time to mentor entrepreneurs and small business owners. They also host free or inexpensive workshops online and at 300 local chapters around the United States. Mentoring can be conducted either in person or remotely and is always free and confidential, no matter how often you take advantage of this service.

Description

Naturally Boulder organizes in-person workshops and online resources specifically geared towards entrepreneurs in the natural products industry. Their resources are primarily sales and marketing advice for this particular industry, although the workshops are also great networking opportunities.

Restrictions

Colorado businesses in the natural products industry.

Description

Techstars offers an accelerator program that provides each business with multiple mentors, fundraising and other financial strategies, and preparation for meeting with potential partners and investors. The program culminates in a Demo Day where entrepreneurs can share their startups at a large event.

Restrictions

Technology-oriented companies only.