Best Small Business Resources in the Nashville Area

Description

The Nashville Entrepreneur Center is a nonprofit specializing in an extensive mentorship program, coworking space, incubation services, and music and healthcare accelerators. The NEC is very high quality, but its programs can also be expensive. As such, the NEC is best for entrepreneurs who are not on a tight budget and want a comprehensive service to assist them with starting their business. 

Restrictions

Accelerator programs are by application process only and require specific industry focuses specific to each program.

Description

The Nashville Chamber of Commerce assists entrepreneurs through classes and workshops, as well as connecting entrepreneurs through the network provided by the Chamber of Commerce. The chamber's offerings will be most useful for entrepreneurs in the process of starting their business who would like some extra assistance, as well as those looking to network with other businesses in the community.

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

Women's Business Centers are nationwide programs established by the SBA to assist women in starting small businesses. Some of these centers are combined with other local organizations and use that relationship to offer even more services. Each Women's Business Center has counselors who can provide mentorship and assistance with business planning. Women’s Business Centers also provide a network of other businesses, and some have loan programs available

Restrictions

The Women's Business Centers are, as the name implies, meant for women primarily.

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.