Last Thursday I had the opportunity to participate in a class put on by the K-State Extension Office titled “Thinking About Starting a Small Business”. This class reminded me of all of the great resources we as small business owners have in the Kansas City area for starting and growing our business. Here are the local resources that were highlighted during the class:
Small Business Development Center – once you have an idea for a business, the SBDC is the place to go to get help researching your idea, determining if it is feasible, and creating your business plan.
Small Home and Business Connection – The SHBC focuses on providing education to small business owners to help them grow their business. They also provide many opportunities to network with other Kansas City area businesses.
Johnson County Library – the Johnson County library has an extensive collection of business databases that small business owners can use for research and marketing. These databases can be accessed from your home or office via the internet. All you need is a library card to access the same databases that large companies pay hundred of thousands of dollars.
KCSourceLink – KCSourceLink’s mission is to help small businesses in the 18-county Kansas City region – from Warrensburg to Topeka, from St. Joseph to Osawatomie – grow and succeed. They provide small business with free, easy access to the help you need – when you need it.
Johnson County/K-State Research and Extension – in addition to sponsoring classes like this, the K-State Research and Extension office is also a great resource if you are considering starting (or have) an agriculture or food related business.
Bill Brelsford Small Business Marketing Consultant
