Houston 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 Houston small business resources and created tools and guides to help you operate a successful business in Texas.
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 Houston
Using local resources can make a big difference. Here are some of the best local resources for small businesses in Houston.
To get more Texas business resources, visit our Texas Small Business Resources guide.
OBO Solutions Center
Overview
The OBO Solutions Center is a City of Houston program designed to spur economic development by providing personal assistance to local entrepreneurs. Specifically, the center has on-site staff that can answer questions related to permits and licensing, as well as SCORE counseling. The center maintains an extensive referral network of local incubators, trade organizations, and universities.
Restrictions
Some services are not available to businesses outside of the city of Houston.
Contact Information
Office Address:
611 Walker St.
Houston, TX 77002
Phone Number: 832-393-0954
Email: obosc@houstontx.gov
Social Media:
TRUiC Business Resources
Houston Business Development, Inc.
Overview
This organization offers a comprehensive resource library with databases, computers with commercial software, and periodicals. Events are regularly hosted here at minimal cost and SCORE counselors are available five days a week. The Business Technology Center is a mixed-use space offering affordable office space, administrative services, and flexible facilities.
Contact Information
Office Address:
5330 Griggs Rd.
Houston, TX 77021
Phone Number: 713-845-2400
Email: info@hbdinc.org
Social Media:
Houston Public Library
Overview
Houston’s central library offers a comprehensive business resource center, with dozens of research databases available to anyone with a library card. There are also meeting rooms available for reservation. The library system hosts numerous public events throughout the year, some of which may be of interest to entrepreneurs looking to start a new business.
Restrictions
A library card is required to access entrepreneurial services.
Contact Information
Office Address:
500 McKinney St.
Houston, TX 77002
Phone Number: 832-393-1313
Social Media:
SCORE Houston
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.
Houston Center 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.
Contact Information
Office Address:
1455 West Loop S.
Ste. 900
Houston, TX 77027
Phone Number: 713-752-8400
Email: sbdcmetro@uh.edu
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TXRX Labs
Overview
TXRX is Houston’s largest nonprofit makerspace, offering an impressive array of fabrication spaces and educational classes. The classes and meetups are available to the general public, however a variety of low-cost membership plans grant access to the facilities and machines therein. Available machines include 3D printers, a water jetting machine, engineering computers, and a full machine shop. Facilities include a photography studio as well as ceramics, wood working, and electronics spaces.
Restrictions
Entrepreneurs looking to use certain equipment will need a commercial membership.
Contact Information
Office Address:
6501 Navigation Blvd.
Houston, TX 77011
Phone Number: 281-868-8979
Email: info@txrxlabs.org
Social Media:
Women's Business Enterprise Alliance
Overview
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.
Contact Information
Office Address:
9800 Northwest Freeway
Suite 120
Houston, TX 77018
Phone Number: 713-681-9232
Email: tprophet@wbea-texas.org
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