Best Small Business Resources in the Savannah Area
Starting a business is a life-changing experience. Georgia has dozens of great resources to help entrepreneurs get started. Our team researched and vetted organizations in the Savannah area and compiled our list of recommended resources in this article.
You can also read our guide to starting a business in Georgia.
Resources Available in your Area
Savannah Entrepreneurial Center
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Description
The Savannah Entrepreneurial Center aims to support business development in Savannah, Georgia through its two programs: the Micro and Small Business Development Program and the Savannah - Owned Business Enterprise (“SBE”) Program. The Micro and Small Business Development Program exists to help entrepreneurs create and develop new businesses while avoiding the pitfalls many entrepreneurs face. The SBE exists to empower minority and women-owned businesses through outreach, certification, and educational training.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
Live Oak Public Libraries
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Description
Live Oaks Public Libraries serves Savannah, Georgia. Live Oaks includes a resource, AtoZdatabases, which can be helpful for business owners seeking sales leads, mailing lists, market research, and more.
Restrictions
Only library card holders may use the services.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
CONTACT INFORMATION:
2002 Bull Street
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-3600
HOURS OF OPERATION:
Monday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Tuesday–Friday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Savannah SCORE
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
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.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
Small Business Assistance Corporation
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Description
The Small Business Assistance Corporation provides technical assistance and funding to small businesses in Southeast Georgia and part of South Carolina. The SBAC manages 13 different loan programs and is a Certified Development Financial Institution (CDFI).
Restrictions
SBAC only provides service to businesses in Southeast Georgia.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
CONTACT INFORMATION:
111 E. Liberty Street, Suite 100
Savannah, GA 31401
912-232-4700
sbac@sbacsav.com
UGA SBDC Savannah Area
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
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.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth