Bloomington Small Business Resources
Starting and running a small business requires resources. There are businesses, government groups, and nonprofits ready to help you.
We’ve compiled a list of Bloomington small business resources and created tools and guides to help you operate a successful business in Indiana.
Starting a business? Get access to small business resources and support when you start an LLC with Northwest ($29 + State Fees).
Local Resources for Small Business in Bloomington
Using local resources can make a big difference. Here are some of the best local resources for small businesses in Bloomington.
To get more Indiana business resources, visit our Indiana Small Business Resources guide.
The Gayle and Bill Cook Center for Entrepreneurship
Overview
The Gayle & Bill Cook Center for Entrepreneurship at Ivy Tech Community College Bloomington provides practical tools such as consulting services, classes, as well as community-based events that help strengthen technical knowledge of entrepreneurship.
Restrictions
The consulting service requires a somewhat comprehensive business plan to get started.
Contact Information
Office Address:
501 N Profile Parkway
Bloomington, IN 47404
Phone Number: 812-330-6255
Email: tphelps13@ivytech.edu
Social Media:
TRUiC Business Resources
Bloomington Economic Development Corporation
Overview
The BEDC has several resources useful to entrepreneurs, notably The Switchboard and B-Start. The Switchboard is a networking program that connects new entrepreneurs to a network of local executives and support services, suitable for companies at any stage of the journey. B-Start is a pre-accelerator program that admits startups in cohorts and hosts workshops, mentoring opportunities, and pitch competitions.
Contact Information
Phone Number: 812-335-7346
Social Media:
SCORE South Central Indiana
Overview
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.
South Central Indiana SBDC
Overview
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.