As a small business owner, navigating the world of entrepreneurship can be overwhelming. From managing finances to marketing your products or services, there are countless aspects to consider when running a successful business. Fortunately, there are numerous free resources available online that can help you streamline your operations, improve your marketing strategies, and grow your business. In honor of Small Business Month (May), here are some valuable resources that you can take advantage of to support your entrepreneurial journey.
Amazon’s Small Business Academy is a treasure trove of resources for both aspiring and established entrepreneurs. From live events to on-demand classes, Amazon offers practical guides for starting and growing a successful business. The Founders Table event series, in particular, provides valuable insights from industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, making it an excellent resource for those just starting out.
America’s Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) is a nationwide network that supports small business growth. With nearly 1,000 local hubs sponsored by educational institutions and state agencies, SBDC offers free consulting and training to new and established businesses. Their website provides resources like infographics, checklists, and templates, along with hosting annual conferences and events that cater to small businesses.
Google is another valuable resource for small business owners, offering tools like Google Business Profile and Google Workspace. The Google for Small Business page provides information on SEO, advertising, and marketing, while the small business lesson collection helps you research your market and develop a business plan. Additionally, the Grow with Google small business showcase on YouTube offers over 250 videos covering various topics like project management and data analytics.
HubSpot, a cloud-based CRM tool, provides free and paid courses through HubSpot Academy. From online courses to certification sessions, HubSpot offers a range of programs for ongoing education for your team. The Website Grader tool helps you assess your website’s performance and provides recommendations for improvement.
HR.com offers free resources for managing human resources effectively, including e-learning lessons, webcasts, and virtual events. You can learn about upcoming regulatory changes and help your HR employees achieve certifications like PHR and SPHR.
The IRS Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center is a comprehensive resource designed to assist small businesses with their tax needs. From forms and instructions to tips on compliance, the IRS provides valuable information for small business owners.
LinkedIn is a professional-focused social media platform that allows you to showcase your company and build relationships with customers and employees. The Action Plan for Small Businesses guide helps you complete your LinkedIn page and post the right content. The LinkedIn resource center offers reports, checklists, and certification programs covering various business topics.
The MIT Open Learning Library offers self-paced courses that are free to download, making it a great resource for professional development options for employees. The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) provides free resources and tools for small business owners, including access to consultants and grants for training programs.
The National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) advocates for small and independent businesses, providing resources like webinars, business insights, and networking events. The National Retail Federation (NRF) offers education on best practices and research on seasonal trends, while the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) provides webinars, courses, and mentorship opportunities for small business owners.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce offers free resources, virtual events, and informative guides for entrepreneurs. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides tools and content for starting, growing, and selling your business, including export assistance programs and financial resources. Verizon’s Small Business Digital Ready program offers coaching, networking opportunities, and educational content for entrepreneurs.
In conclusion, these free resources can help you navigate the challenges of running a small business and support your growth and success as an entrepreneur. By taking advantage of these valuable tools and resources, you can streamline your operations, improve your marketing strategies, and achieve your business goals.
