Top 6 Small-Business Initiatives in the US

With the resurging of covid-19 cases, small businesses are once again thrown into the turmoil of uncertainties. And that is why being resourceful will be vital to a business' survival. However, if you are not sure about where to start looking for help, check out 6 of the best small business initiatives in the US listed below.

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Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses is probably one of the best known small-businesses initiatives in the US. This is also one of the most developed, comprehensive, and structured educational programs tailored for small businesses.

Through this program, you'll learn everything you need to become a successful small business owner, including financial planning, project management, employee management and marketing.

Within six months of graduation, over 65% reported revenue growths and 47% created new jobs. The program also helps you to build a robust referral and partnership network as more than 85% of previous students continue to work with each other after graduation.

SSBCI

SSBCI is a new initiative announced in March, 2021 as part of The American Rescue Plan Act. The program will fund "state, territory, and Tribal government small business credit support and investment programs. (U.S. Treasury)"

This program is specifically designed to support small businesses through the post pandemic era as well as the resurgence of COVID-19 cases. While it is a national level initiativ businesses must apply individually via the correspondent state and/or tribal government.

Therefore, check with your state of secretary local SPDC as well as Chamber of Commerce offices For more information and latest deadlines so you don't miss out on the funding you need.

Save Small Business Initiative

Powered by the US Chamber of Commerce, SSBI is one of the best small business initiatives in US providing everything you need to survive this unprecedented time. This program provides everything from financial assistance to helpful resources to professional advisors for struggling small businesses.

For example, you'll find an entire sub page dedicated fully to small business taxes including how to properly keep track of your expenses, as well as the many tax initiatives that came out as the pandemic unfolded. You will also be able to move to other major small business resource databases directly from the SSBI web page.

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1 Million Cups

With the slogan of caffeinating entrepreneurs nationalwide every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups is the friendlier version of Shark Tank, where entrepreneurs pitch their ideas to a supportive and compassionate community.

Ulnike the other initiatives included in this article, 1 Million Cups is 100% community-ran, and currently have more than 150 participating locations and organizations across the US.

Council on Underserved Communities

Are you a minority-owned, woman-owned, or veteran-owned business? The,n you need to get Council on Underserved Communities (CUC) on your radar when seeking small business support and resources.

While not entirely a small business initiated CUC advises SBA so the organization can better help those who have been historically underrepresented in the business community. Follow them closely and you'll be the first to know about new equity and diversity programs.

Additionally, the council also provides leadership opportunities regularly throughout the year.

Independent We Stand

Independent We Stand is another great resource for all independent businesses regardless of your niche. It is a nationwide network focusing on community outreach and engagement, with the mission of educating the population why buying local is vital to the livelihood of both the businesses and members of the local communities.

Like all other business organizations such as your local chamber, Independent We Stand also has its where members can promote their products and services.

Where to Find More Resources

If you're looking For more information about the different small-business initiatives in th US and in your State, Start with your local Chamber of Commerce and SBDC offices. Community business centers or business Resource Center from your business schools and colleges can also point you to the right direction.

Or, if all these sound like too much trouble you can join our Starlight Initiative program And have free resources on entrepreneurship, business development, marketing, and many other goodies delivered to your mailbox every month.