Best Small Business Resources in the Louisville Area

Starting a business is a life-changing experience. Kentucky has dozens of great resources to help entrepreneurs get started. Our team researched and vetted organizations in the Louisville area and compiled our list of recommended resources in this article.
You can also read our guide to starting a business in Kentucky.
Resources Available in your Area
Louisville SBDC
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
Chef Space
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Description
In addition to access to kitchen space with fryers, mixers, ovens, etc., this kitchen incubator includes plenty of space to host events. This organization can also help you find venues to sell your product in. As Chef Space also holds large events, such as conferences and weddings, these events need catering and this can be an easy way for your business to make money in the space.
Restrictions
Businesses in the food industry only.
Works with Companies in These Stages:

Idea

Planning

Startup

Growth
Louisville 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