The Michigan Small Business Development Center offers expert assistance at no cost to entrepreneurs looking to start or grow a business. Through personalized, one-on-one business consulting, we help small business owners with planning and growth strategies.
The SBDC enhances Michigan’s economic wellbeing by providing consulting, training and market research for new ventures, existing small businesses and advanced technology companies.
No-cost and low-cost training sessions offer the opportunity to learn more about running and growing your business.
Expanded Support Services During COVID-19
Small businesses in all 83 counties in Michigan will benefit from expanded support services offered through the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC), thanks to CARES Act Funding.
The Michigan SBDC, a statewide nonprofit organization providing free business consulting, training and market research, has expanded its service offering to reflect the needs of small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New services include:
- 46 additional business consultants to meet the increase in demand for one-on-one consulting support.
- New partnerships with service providers (website development, marketing, accounting, etc.) who can help businesses weather the effects of COVID-19 and thrive in the future.
The expanded services offered through the Michigan SBDC are available through March 2021 and are complemented by the SBDC’s well-established team of business consultants, offering free, one-on-one support to small businesses in all 83 counties.
The following business support services and guidance are available from the SBDC:
Business Plan Development—Your business plan serves as an important roadmap for developing your business. Our consultants are available to meet with you and review your plan to ensure it’s realistic and complete.
Market Research—Market research will help you understand where your audiences—and industry competitors—are so you can effectively market your business online and offline.
Raising Capital—SBDC specialists are a helpful resource for understanding the range of loans, grants and financing options available to you. Their extensive experience in accounting and banking can benefit you in many ways.
Business Workshops—Our no-cost and low-cost training sessions offer the opportunity to learn more about running and growing your business. From securing financing to writing a business or marketing plan to using social media effectively, numerous workshops are offered across the state.
Technology Commercialization—We help entrepreneurs bridge the gap between technology development and commercialization. Our Tech Team consists of consultants with a proven track record, focusing on three key areas: access to capital, access to resources, and strategic planning and execution. If you’re a technology company, we’d love to connect you with the resources you need.
Financial Management—Our Financial Management Analysis program is a one-on-one, confidential counseling process designed to strengthen your financial literacy and improve your ability to access capital.
Export Strategy—If you’re targeting an increase in export sales for your business, our SBDC Export Specialist Team includes experienced counselors with Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) and Small Business Administration (SBA) international business certifications.
Strategic Planning—Our business consultants can help you design growth strategies and make solid business decisions to realize your goals. Our strategic planning services will help you optimize business performance and put you on the road to success.