101 - Free Government Money Vault

Transcription

101
The Best Government Grants
For Your Business
by
Matthew Lesko
Mary Ann Martello
Kelly Edmiston
Grants, Direct Payments, Venture Capital, Loans, Loan Guarantees, Matching Funds,
Government Contracts, Free Services
Plus
Free Money To Live On While You Start Your Business
Matthew Lesko
Information USA, Inc.
12083 Nebel Street
Rockville, MD 20852
1-800-Uncle-Sam
(1-800-862-5372)
http://www.lesko.com/
© Copyright 2012
$4.99
Matthew Lesko - www.lesko.com
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Over One Million Entrepreneurs A Year Get
Government Money And Help
To Start/Expand Their Business
It’s All There Waiting For You To Ask
Billions are set aside every year for Americans to become entrepreneurs and ZERO is
spent advertising that programs are available to:
-Start New Businesses, a Part-Time Business, or a Home-Based Business
-Expand an Existing Business, Start a Non-Profit, or Work on Your Invention
-Make More Money as a Freelancer or Contractor Than an Average Employee
Both Republicans and Democrats Love These Programs
Why? Because small businesses create most of the jobs in America. You starting a
business means you create a job for yourself and when you grow your business you
create jobs for others. The big companies are always downsizing. It is small business that
creates jobs.
Over 17,000 Programs You Never Knew About Because
They’re NOT At The SBA
Free Money To Live On While You Start Your Business
$1.5 Million To Grow Or Move Your Business
$15,000 To Start A Business At Home
Money And Help To Work On Your Invention
$25,000 To Train Your Employees
$5,000 For Teenagers To Start A Business
Free Computers And Office Equipment
Free Lawyers To Collect On Customer’s Bad Checks
Free Help Writing A Business Plan Or Grant Application
$15,000 To Learn How To Get Government Contracts
Cheap Rent, Free Marketing Help And Excellent Contacts To Start A New Venture
$5,000 To Travel Overseas To Look For Business Opportunities
$6,000 Grant To Help You Learn How To Get A $150,000 Grant
$100,000 For Freelancers To Work At Home
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Money For Both The 1% And 99%
You can be certain the big guys have figured out how to use these programs. Apple
Computer, Federal Express, Home Depot, Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream, Staples, and
Amazon have all used government funding to help with their success.
Even Donald Trump describes in his book how his first big deal was with a government
program in Ohio. His father built his real estate empire using government programs and
“The Donald” continues to use government funding and subsidies.
But this help is more for the average person, with just a little money or NO MONEY AT
ALL, who wants to achieve the American dream. These programs are really for people
who can't easily walk into a bank and get the money they need to start their dream. These
are programs you can use when the bank turns you down. I've interviewed dozens of
average Americans who have used these programs for their success. Here are some
videos you can watch on our web site:
Unemployed Musician Gets Money
To Start A Composing Business
http://www.lesko.com/using-unemployment.php
$1,000,000 For Lady's Invention
To Stop Pain From Doctor's Shots
http://www.lesko.com/doctor-Inventor-receives-grant.php
$15,000 Grant For Mom With Good Ideas
Non-Profit Makes Money Selling Junk
http://www.lesko.com/moms-with-new-ideas.php
http://www.lesko.com/construction_junction.php
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
$2,500 Grant To Produce Videos To Provide A Source Of Income
http://www.lesko.com/artist-grant-to-produce-instructional-videos.php
Retired Army Vet Gets Money To Start A Banana Bread Bakery
http://www.lesko.com/vet-gets-money-and-help-for-banana-bread.php
Student Gets Grant To Start Business In Dorm Room
http://www.lesko.com/college-student-uses-grant.php
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Life Coach Gets $10,000 To Help People Get Jobs
http://www.lesko.com/connie-six-figure.php
Gets A $6,000 Grant To Help Apply For A $100,000 Grant
http://www.lesko.com/landfill_gas_developer_learns.php
Free Entrepreneur Training To Become A Management Consultant
http://www.lesko.com/free-entrepreneur-training.php
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Contracts Are Bigger/Better
Than Grants or Loans
SBA Loans
How Many
Value
61,689
$30.5 Billion
Gov't Contracts (2011)
91.5 Billion
$286 Billion
The government is 800% bigger than Walmart and buys more of anything that you can
think of: pasta, broom handles, web services, plasma TVs, massage therapists, freelance
writers, artists, and even stand up comics and freelance priests.
It may take you a few months to figure out the system, but there are plenty of free experts
that will guide you through the system for free. Don’t go out and pay for some consultant.
All the help you need to figure out how to get government contracts is available for
FREE.
And remember to get a government contract you're not going to be able to just make a
phone call and get a check in the mail next Wednesday. Anything good is going to take
time. However, no matter how long it takes, this is the rest of your life you are talking
about and you have to start working on it today. If you want to sell to the government,
they even have a program that's called a Mentor Program where they hook you up with
someone who is already successful in selling to the government.
My sister frames pictures for the government all over the world out of her home in the
middle of Virginia and she does a million dollars worth of business.
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Don't Waste Time And Money On Starting Or Expanding Your Business
For any problem that comes up, you don’t have to pay…you can get it FREE. Here is a
list of the kinds of problems that come up when you are starting or expanding a business
and they can all be solved with a free program from the government. So, why pay for
something if you can get it for free?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Where Is Grant Money For A Business Like Mine?
Where Is The Best Place To Get Low Interest Loans For My Business?
Is There Venture Capital For My Business?
I Need Help Deciding The Best Business
download:
To Start.
http://www.unclelesko.net/
5. How Do I Write A Business Plan?
6. I Need Help With Taxes.
7. How Can I Start A Business If I Don't
Have Any Money And I Have Low
Income?
8. How Can I Make More Money As A
Freelancer Than As An Employee
9. Where Do I Get Money To Live On
While I Start My Business?
10. I Need Help Starting A Non-Profit
Organization.
11. Where Can I Get Free Help To Start A Part-Time Business?
12. I Need Help With My Invention, But I Think Invention Companies Are RipOffs.
13. Can I Get Office Space Cheap And Free Consulting Help?
14. How Do I Solve My Debt Problems So I Can Start My Business?
15. I Need More Sales.
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10 Things YOU DON'T KNOW About Free Government Money
Life is full of answers. You can Google any topic and get one million answers to almost
anything. The hard part in life is asking the right questions. Our mission is to educate
America about the facts about government programs so you get all the benefits you are
entitled to. Start your education here:
1) 80% of Free Government Money Is Not Called Grants
Of the $2 trillion in free government money that is given out each year only about
$378 billion is called grants. The rest of free money is called things like direct
payments, venture capital or loans you do not have to pay back. So don’t call the
government and ask for a grant, you will miss 80% of the free money that is given
out.
We know the average American only thinks about grants. That’s why we put the
word “GRANT” in the title, but the programs we list include all other sources of free
money and help. We make sure you always know the right words to say when
contacting government offices.
2) Don't Call Washington Looking For Money
Think local. Most money programs do originate from Washington; however, the
money goes to the state governments, who in turn give out the money to local
government and even non-profit organizations. Every state government has an office
that tracks this money. Call the governor's office and ask for the state grants office to
get started.
3) Free Services Are Better Than Free Money
Consumers are missing out on tens of thousands of dollars in free services like:
 free credit card help
http://www.lesko.com/free_independent.php
 free help to start a business
http://www.lesko.com/columbus_sbdc.php
 free health care
http://www.lesko.com/montogomery_health.php
4) Government Applications Are Easy
This is where average Americans really miss out. They believe that grant applications
are complicated, and they are right. But 80% of the free money the government gives
out is not a grant so they do not require a grant application and all that is needed is
three or four pages of fill in the blanks.
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5) Your Congressman Provides The Best Help
Every elected official has someone on their staff who helps people take advantage of
government programs. These are the most motivated people in government that want
to help you because if they are able to make a call to a government office and get you
$50,000 for your business or $8,000 to train for a new job, you will vote for them in
the next election no matter what they do. (Find your elected official at:
http://www.congress.org)
6) The Government Doesn't Know What It Has
If you call a government office and ask if they have money to help you accomplish
some goal, you can’t take NO for an answer. Government offices are too big for any
one person to know what is in their office. Get the documents, check the web sites,
ask for suggestions for other sources. The best way to deal with the government is to
find out what they have before you contact them. Then you call and tell them what
they have. (Find your local government office: http://www.govengine.com/)
7) Only 12% Goes To The Poor
Many people think they have to be destitute to receive government money. But that's
not true. A bigger percentage of rich people are eligible for government money than
poor people. And what's poor in today's economy? You can be working full-time at
Wal-Mart and be eligible for food stamps. (Source: “Running On Empty”, Peter G.
Peterson, former Chairman of Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Farrar, Strauss and
Giroux, New York, page 151)
8) Over $19,379 In Free Money Goes To Every Family
The U.S. Budget for 2013 shows that in 2012 $2.5 trillion was spent in free money
programs and the U.S. Census shows there are about 129 million families. You do the
math. (Source: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/BUDGET-2013-TAB/pdf/BUDGET2013-TAB.pdf, page 223 and
http://www.census.gov/popest/data/housing/totals/2008/files/HU-EST2008-STlayout.pdf)
9) Government Programs Keep Growing Under Both Democrats And
Republicans
Total government spending has increased every single year since 1948.
(Source: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/BUDGET-2013-TAB/pdf/BUDGET-2013TAB.pdf, page 347)
10) 75% Of Government Money Programs Have No Income Requirements
No matter what your income you can apply for money to do specific activities that the
government wants to be done like create or grow a business, fix-up your home, work
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on an invention, or train for a new job.
(Source: “Running On Empty”, Peter G. Peterson, former Chairman of Federal
Reserve Bank of New York, Farrar, Strauss and Giroux, New York, page 151)
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Watch These 11 Free Videos
To Learn More About Your American Benefits
Go to http://www.lesko.com/how_to_use_this_service.php and
click on “Help With Your Problems”
Matthew Lesko
New York Time Best Selling Author and Entrepreneur
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
About Matthew Lesko
No one has done more to educate the American public about available government
money programs than Matthew Lesko.
Over 30 years ago, as an ex-Naval Officer armed with a MBA in Computer Information
Systems, Lesko started with only a phone and a desk in a one bedroom apartment, but
soon had over 30 employees in a big office on K Street, in downtown Washington, D.C.
Lesko's brainstorm was showing Fortune 500 executives how to take advantage of littleknown government programs. These business leaders did not care how much the
information cost because they were turning this information into millions.
Growing up in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, Lesko never knew about such government
programs and was constantly surprised when he kept uncovering more and more freebies
that his rich clients could spin into gold.
After a few years, Lesko got bored helping these fat cats. He thought: “Why don't
average people know about all this free money and help from government programs?”
Since then, he has concentrated on getting this information out to the average American.
He has authored over 100 books--two became New York Times Best Sellers, and two
won awards for Best Reference Book of the Year. He was a columnist for the New York
Times Syndicate, Good Housekeeping magazine, The Chicago Tribune, and others.
Lesko has appeared on hundreds of radio and television shows, including The Today
Show, Larry King, Letterman, Jay Leno, Good Morning America, and Oprah. With his
altruistic exuberance and enthusiasm, Lesko became a favorite guest on shows like
Letterman and Larry King, especially when some big star canceled at the last minute.
Now Lesko's TV time consists mainly of off-the-wall infomercials, and he is ranked
among the top ten most recognized infomercial personalities.
Lesko is done writing books, believing his web service allows him to provide even more
personal education and services about government programs for only $20, in contrast to
30 years ago when he charged CEOs $10,000 for the exact same information. Isn't the
government great...it even created the World Wide Web. Lesko wants to show how the
government can help you create something new in your life, too. And it's FREEEEEE!
Matthew Lesko
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Learn How We Can Help More
Join Matthew Lesko’s Government Money Club
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
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9)
24/7 email access to answer ANY questions
Top-secret interview videos with government officials
The world’s most exclusive collection of Grants, Loans and other Free Services
One-on-one training with Matthew Lesko
Priority notification of OVER 200 new monthly programs
Access to a team of experts to prepare customized reports
Assistance writing grants from trained Free Money Experts
Unlimited access to Matthew Lesko and his researchers
– a dedicated team to help you find and utilize programs in your area, tailored to
your specific needs
Free assistance filling out ANY government application
Watch This Video and Learn
Why We Are The Best Grant Service In America
http://www.lesko.com/why-we-are-the-best-grant-service.php
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101 Best Government Grants
For Your Business
There are literally thousands of government programs that can ensure the success of any
entrepreneur, business, non-profit organization or even contract worker, freelancer or
artist. If you cannot find what you need below, never, never, never give up your search
for what you need for success. I truly believe that the help you need is out there, but it
may just take some effort on your part to find it.
Be Sure To Contact This Office First
No matter what kind of venture you want to start or even if you are already in the middle
of one, there are thousands of Business Development Centers that want to help you.
Remember, they're FREE and they are familiar with a lot of the programs that are local to
you. Go to item #102 and contact the lead office for your state to make an appointment
as soon as you can.
1) $200,000 From Washington To Open Or Expand A Business
You can actually get up to $1,000,000 in grants and/or loans to open or expand a
business from the U.S. Federal Government alone. There are over 100 different
money programs available from offices ranging from the U.S. Small Business
Administration to the U.S. Department of Agriculture to the U.S. Department of
Commerce. For the best source identifying all federal government money
programs available, look at a government published book called The Catalog of
Federal Domestic Assistance published by the U.S. Government Printing Office:
http://www.gpo.gov/ or look at it for free on the web at: https://www.cfda.gov/.
Another good starting place to find anything in the federal government is a free
service called the Federal Information Center at 1-800-FED-INFO
or http://publications.usa.gov/USAPubs.php
2) $150,000 To Open A Business In A Certain Zip Code
In addition to the federal government, you also have to contact your state
government. Every state has a number of money programs for people to start or
expand a business in their state. Governors compete with other governors to see
who can create the most jobs, and that’s why they offer money for people who
create jobs in their state. You don’t even have to be a resident of the state. You can
live in one state and put your business in a state that offers you more money.
States also offer special money for entrepreneurs to put their business in certain
areas of the state or in certain areas of a city. There are also other money programs
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
to build buildings or renovate old buildings. Some of this money comes from
federal sources which is given to the states and distributed to entrepreneurs in the
state. Other money is generated from local taxes. And some states use the
winnings from their lottery money to give to entrepreneurs to create or expand
businesses. Many states offer programs from more than one agency, so it may take
some time to find all the programs in a given state. A good place to start is your
state government Office of Economic Development located in your state capital.
You can call 411 and ask for the state capital operator in your state capital or go
to http://www.govengine.com/ and click on your state and find the office that is
listed under business and/or economic development.
3) $10,000 To Put A New Sign On Your Business
Most local governments have money programs to help businesses in their area. Be
sure to check your city, your county or your local development agency. The
money for these programs can originate from the federal government, state
government or locally generated taxes. These programs can be for buildings,
equipment, working capital, hiring employees or for local beautification projects
like painting the front of your store and putting up a new sign. If you are opening
up a business, you can shop around at different cities and counties to see who may
have the most money for you. If you don’t know who to contact, call the
information operator at 411 and ask for the mayor of the city or the head of the
county government. The top office is always the best place to start. You can also
go to http://www.govengine.com/ and click on your state. You will see a list of all
the counties and cities in your state along with the relevant web sites.
4) Let The Government Be Your Biggest Customer
Question: Do you know what is better than a $100,000 government grant?
Answer: A $100,000 government contract. Because with a grant you are most
likely to get it once and with a contract you can keep getting it over and over
again.
Question: Do you know who buys more of anything than anyone else in the
world?
Answer: The government, including federal, state, local and county.
Someone has to sell all those products and services to the government and it might
as well be you. You just have to find out who in the government buys your
product and figure out the paperwork on how to get paid. But don’t worry too
much about the work required and the paperwork involved because there are
offices that will help you do all this and they will do it for FREE. Find your local,
state, and federal financed Small Business Development Center office by
contacting 800-8-ASK-SBA or http://www.sba.gov/content/small-businessdevelopment-centers-sbdcs. Or you can also contact one of the local free offices
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
financed by the Department of Defense’s Defense Logistics Agency at 703-7671661 or http://www.dla.mil/smallbusiness/pages/ptap.aspx. Tell them you need
help selling to the government. But, remember one thing: selling to the
government is like going elephant hunting. When you bag one of these babies you
have meat for a long time.
5) Your One-Stop Shop
Business USA is the government’s one-stop platform to make it easier than ever
for businesses to access services to help them grow and hire. They have links to
start and expand a business, access financing, help with exporting, and more.
There is a link to state and local resources that contain a wealth of information,
resources, services, and financial assistance programs. Business USA even has a
section for veterans, women and minority businesses, rural businesses as well as
programs for web-based businesses. Check it out at: http://business.usa.gov/
6) Get Free Legal Help, Free Financial Help, Free Marketing Help
Have you ever wished you could call a great lawyer for legal advice and have
them do the work for free? Have you ever dreamed about calling a great financial
consultant for advice on a money matter and get your answer for free? Have you
ever worried about how in the world you would pay for a PR agency to promote
your store so everyone would know how great you are? Have you ever wished you
didn’t have to pay to hire a management consultant to show you the secrets of how
to double your sales in one year? You can get the answers to all these questions by
knowing about the government’s best kept secret called Small Business
Development Centers. There are over 1,000 of these offices around the country
that will give you all these services and more for free or for very little cost. You
don’t even have to know how to spell entrepreneur and they will sit down with
you and help with any business problem you have. Don’t pay for something when
you can get it for FREE. Find an office near you by contacting 800-8-ASK-SBA
or go to: http://www.sba.gov/content/small-business-development-centers-sbdcs.
A listing of state lead centers is listed at the end of this eBook.
7) Let The Government Be Your Collection Agency
Do you have a supplier in another state who owes you money and won’t pay you
back? Well, you don’t have to hire an attorney and pay hundreds or even
thousands of dollars to get back your money. Try calling the attorney general’s
office in the state of your supplier and complain about how a company in their
state mistreated you. Many of these offices will investigate, for free, by contacting
the business in question. No matter who is right in the matter the supplier likely
does not want a government office on their back because this government office
can put them out of business. The smartest business decision is to just give you the
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money owed and have the problem go away. Maybe your credit card company
does not treat you right and holds back money you think is due to you? Maybe
your health insurance company will not pay a claim you think is covered in your
policy? Maybe the package delivery service or the airline shipping your product
did you wrong? Maybe the radio station running your ads cheated you? All of
these problems can be handled more effectively, and for FREE, by contacting the
government agency that regulates the business you are dealing with. All
businesses are regulated by some agency. If your customers have a problem with
you they can contact the state attorney general’s office or the postal inspector if
you sent a product by mail. So, why hire an attorney who will charge you $200 an
hour to get you satisfaction, when you can call a government office who will do
the job for free. And don’t forget, a business can fight an attorney because the
worst they have to lose is that they have to pay what they owe you. But it does not
pay for a business to fight a government agency because a government agency has
the power to put them out of business. To find who regulates a specific business,
call 411 and ask for your state capital operator. Then ask for the office that
regulates the profession or organization that hurt you. Or go to:
http://www.govengine.com/ and start by looking for the office of the attorney
general. You can also try the Consumer Action web site at:
http://www.usa.gov/topics/consumer.shtml
8) Start A Business With No Money And No Products
Who says you have to have an actual store to have a store? And who says that you
even have to have any products to have a store? You can start a virtual store on the
web. For this you only need pictures of the products and a source to get the
products when someone actually buys them from your web site. Call a dozen
suppliers of the product you are interested in and see if they would go into a 50/50
partnership when sales come in. You can find suppliers for any product from
books in the library. Once you learn how to bring in sales, you can get your own
store and keep all the money yourself. If you want to start a bookstore you can
contact local hospitals, office buildings or other big structures, and make a deal
with them to sell products in the lobby for people hanging out all day. And then
contact a local bookstore to share the profits with them. Or you can approach a
local bookstore and tell them that you will figure out how to sell books to the
government and want a 50/50 deal. The bookstore has nothing to lose and you get
to have a business with no money or books. And how are you going to learn to sell
to the government? The government will teach you for free. Contact your local
government sponsored Small Business Development Center and they will teach
you for free. Call 800-8-ASK-SBA or go to: http://www.sba.gov/content/smallbusiness-development-centers-sbdcs
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
9) Watch Videos Of Organizations That Offer Free Help For
Starting A Business
So many times we get asked if what we say is true. So we went out and talked to
government offices and to people who received these services to show you that
these things are available to you. Check out some of our videos:
 Business Incubators Increase Your Success:
http://www.lesko.com/business_incubators_increase_your_success.php
 Start A Business Or Work On Your Invention:
http://www.lesko.com/columbus_sbdc.php
 Local Business Grants:
http://www.lesko.com/local_business_grants2.php
 Bring Your Business To Amarillo:
http://www.lesko.com/money_to_bring_your_business_to_amarillo.php
 Big And Small Companies Get Help:
http://www.lesko.com/big_and_small_companies_get_help.php
 Money To Train For A Better Job:
http://www.lesko.com/workforce_development.php
10) $10,000 For Your First Business
Count Me In offers access to business loans, consultation, and education by
making loans of $500 to $10,000 available to women who are trying to obtain
their first business loan. The organization provides access to networks that expand
contacts, markets, skills, and confidence. Loans can be used for working capital,
purchase of inventory or equipment, marketing materials for a sales event, or other
uses. Contact: Count Me In, 240 Central Park South, Suite 7H, New York, NY
10019; 212-245-1245; http://www.makemineamillion.org/
11) Where To Find The Best Customers For Your Business
Or where is the best place to put up a store? Or which surrounding zip codes offer
the best potential for increasing sales? Or where can I get a list of all the
accountants in my area to tell them about my new product or service? You don’t
have to hire a high priced marketing consultant to get answers to questions like
these. You can tap into the government’s rich vein of free marketing data collected
by the Bureau of Census and other government agencies. This is where the
multibillion dollar companies get their marketing data and it is where the high
priced consultants also get it and then resell it to clients at outrageous fees. That is
what I used to do when I was a consultant. To get detailed information about data
available for your state, contact your local Census State Data Center in your state
capital by calling your state capital operator at 411 or going to:
http://www.census.gov/sdc/. You can also get a lot of free and low-cost
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
marketing help from your local Small Business Development Center. You can find
them by calling 800-8-ASK-SBA or go to: http://www.sba.gov/content/smallbusiness-development-centers-sbdcs
12) Money To Start A Business In A Small Town
The government is so concerned about creating jobs in small towns that they gave
someone $150,000 to start a winery in the middle of Iowa. See:
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rd/newsroom/2003/vadglist03-final.pdf. There is a
lot of money and help to start a business in a small town. The government is
concerned about unemployment in small towns, so it has committed a number of
loans and grant programs to encourage almost any kind of entrepreneuring
venture. Montana gave out a $25,000 grant to help small businesses in rural areas
figure out how to get government contracts. So check out the small towns in your
area. Who cares if you have to drive an additional hour to work if someone is
going to give you $150,000 to start your business. A good place to start to see
what kind of money is available is at your local U.S. Department of Agriculture
Rural Development Office. Check out their programs at:
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/LP_BusinessPrograms.html or contact your local
office at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/recd_map.html
13) Free Help Writing Business Plans Or Grant Applications
Don’t believe it when some professional tries to scare you into thinking how hard
it is to write a business plan or fill out a money application. This is the least of
your problems, plus there is plenty of free help in filling them out when the time
comes. The first thing you must do in getting government money is get a copy of
the application that you believe may give you the money you need. No one should
ever investigate hiring a professional before you even know where you are going
to apply for the money. And once you get an application in hand and you think
you need help, contact your local Small Business Development Center at 800-8ASK-SBA or go to: http://www.sba.gov/content/small-business-developmentcenters-sbdcs. They will help you for free or for next to nothing.
In addition, you can get help from the best grant writing experts in the country by
going to a non-profit organization called The Foundation Center. Their materials
are available for free in libraries all over the country. You can find out where by
contacting them at 212-620-4230 or http://foundationcenter.org/. By the way, I’ve
seen a lot of applications for government money and many of them were so sloppy
and unintelligible that any teacher would have given them a flunking grade, but
they still got their money. And some applications are only one page long and you
can get up to $150,000 for filling them out. Worrying about filling out an
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
application before you have one in hand is like buying a prom dress before you are
invited to the prom. First things first.
14) $12 Million To Start A Real Big Business
No matter how much money you need there is probably a program for you. You
can also collect large amounts of money by putting together money from a number
of programs. The government also offers venture capital through the Small
Business Administration’s Small Business Investment Companies (SBIC). Over
75,000 entrepreneurs received money from this source to get their dreams off the
ground, including the big guys like Compaq, Apple, Federal Express and Staples.
SBICs are licensed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, but are privately
owned and operate on a for profit basis. Their license allows companies to pool
their money with borrowed money from the government in order to provide
financing to small businesses in the form of equity securities or long-term debt.
See how they can help you by calling the Associate Administrator for Investment,
U.S. SBA, 202-205-6510 or go to: http://www.sba.gov/about-officescontent/1/2890. Many states also have venture capital programs or will help you
locate private venture capitalists and state governments can also help you prepare
the necessary paperwork. A good place to look for this kind of help is your state
government Office of Economic Development located in your state capital. You
can call 411 and ask for the state capital operator in your state capital or go
to http://www.govengine.com/ and click on your state and find the office that is
listed under business and/or economic development.
15) Get A $5,000 Grant With Bad Credit
Maybe you don’t need a bunch of money to get your idea off the ground. Maybe
all you need is just a few thousand dollars to get your idea to go. Well, there are
hundreds of non-profit organizations that offer small grants and easy loans aimed
at people who would never be able to get money from traditional sources. There
are many programs specifically aimed at helping people with low-income or bad
credit to start a business. These programs are available because the data show that
they work. The Aspen Institute Self-Employment Learning Project studied 405
low-income people who started their own business and found that 53% were able
to use their business to get out of being classified as low-income. These businesses
also had better survival rates than the average business traced by the U. S. Small
Business Administration (SBA). It is difficult to locate all of these groups around
the country, but two good starting places are: 1) Association for Enterprise
Opportunity at http://www.aeoworks.org/index.php/site/page/category/find/ and 2)
The Foundation Center at 212-620-4230 or http://foundationcenter.org/
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
16) Money For Teenagers To Start A Business
You can be as young as 10 and get $5,000 to start a business. The program is
aimed at youth in rural areas, but you never know where you can use this. This
loan can be used to finance income producing, agriculture-related projects. The
project must be of modest size and carried out by rural youths participating in 4-H
clubs, FFA, or a similar organization. It must be planned and operated with the
assistance of the organization advisor and provide the youth with practical
business and educational experience in agriculture-related skills. To qualify, you
must reside in a rural area, city or town with a population of 50,000 or fewer
people. Put this program aside; you never know when someone in your family
may need this. It is part of the Farm Operating Loan program from the U.S.
Department of Agriculture. Find out more by calling 202-720-1632 or go to:
http://www.fsa.usda.gov/FSA/webapp?area=home&subject=gfmlp&topic=ryl
17) Watch Videos Of Organizations That Offer Money For Your
Business
Below are nine videos that talk about other organizations that offer grants and
other money for businesses. These are videos of entrepreneurs as well as money
sources.
 Landfill Developer Learns To Get Grants:
http://www.lesko.com/landfill_gas_developer_learns.php
 Green Bag Lunch Entrepreneur:
http://www.lesko.com/green_bag_lunch_entrepreneur.php
 Non-Profit Sells Donated Building Materials:
http://www.lesko.com/construction_junction.php
 Money To Train Your Employees:
http://www.lesko.com/montgomery_country_workforce.php
 Help For Job Seekers And Employers:
http://www.lesko.com/spring_field_work_force.php
 Green Roofs For Money And Veggies:
http://www.lesko.com/green_roofs_for_money_and_veggies.php
 Help Starting A Business In Nevada:
http://www.lesko.com/starting_a_business_in_nevada.php
 $200 To 72,000 Customers In 4 Years:
http://www.lesko.com/houston_entrepreneur.php
 How To Sell To Local Governments:
http://www.lesko.com/how_to_sell_to_local_governments.php
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
18) Free Or Discounted Rent, Office Supplies, Management
Services, Etc.
The concept of “incubators” offers new entrepreneurs a place to start their
business with free use of, or discounts on, everything you need to start and run a
business. Some of these incubators even help with getting money for your project.
It’s a great support system for new ventures. To find incubators near you, contact
National Business Incubator Association at 740-593-4331 or see:
http://www.nbia.org/links_to_member_incubators/index.php
19) Money For Out-Of Work Professional To Become Mentor
Consultants
Matthew Lesko interviewed Susan Bender Phelps who currently operates her own
mentor consulting business, which she was able to start while she was receiving
unemployment insurance. She explained her history and how she developed the
idea for her company as well as how the government program allowed her to
further develop her idea without risking losing her benefits. Self-Employment
Assistance is designed to encourage and enable unemployed workers to create
their own jobs by starting their own small businesses. States can pay a selfemployed weekly allowance, instead of regular unemployment insurance benefits,
to help unemployed workers while they are establishing businesses and becoming
self-employed. This is a voluntary program for states and, to date, Delaware,
Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon and Pennsylvania have SelfEmployment Assistance programs. The State Workforce Agency web sites for
these states can be accessed at: http://www.servicelocator.org/OWSLinks.asp.
Generally, in order to receive these benefits, an individual must first be eligible to
receive regular unemployment insurance under the state law. Individuals who
have been permanently laid off from their previous jobs and are identified as likely
to exhaust regular unemployment benefits are eligible to participate in the
program. Individuals may be eligible even if they are engaged full-time in selfemployment activities, including entrepreneurial training, business counseling, and
technical assistance. You should contact the State Unemployment Insurance
agency as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. At the time you file your
claim you should ask whether a Self-Employment Assistance program operates in
your state. Check out: http://workforcesecurity.doleta.gov/unemploy/self.asp.
You can watch Matthew’s video with Susan Bender Phelps at:
http://www.lesko.com/money-for-out-of-work.php
20) Free Job Training
Actually many state Departments of Labor offer a variety of job training programs
to help employers train new hires or upgrade the skills of their current workers.
Although these programs need to be initiated by the employer with the Labor
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Department, you can take the initiative and see what they have to offer. Then show
your boss how eager you are to learn new skills, at no cost to them!
 California will reimburse companies who retrain current employees of
manufacturing firms who are facing out-of-state competition and for
training new hires who are unemployment insurance recipients.
 Ohio Training Tax Credit Program provides tax credits of up to $100,000
per year to help offset costs of training current workers.
 Pennsylvania offers Customized Job Training grants for specialized job
training for existing or new employees; Guaranteed Free Training Program
up to $850 per employee.
 Rhode Island has a job training grant program for industry to create
customized training programs tailored specifically for a company.
 Arkansas Business and Industry Training program will provide financial
assistance to companies to recruit new workers, will provide customized
training before employment, and will pay for more training once you hire
the employee. They also offer the Existing Workforce Training Program
which will pay for upgrading the skills of your current employees.
Contact your state Department of Labor to see what job training programs or
tax credits they may offer to help you get the training or the employees you
need. Locate your state Department of Labor or Department of Economic
Development located in your state capital: http://www.govengine.com/
21) Community Action Agencies Offer Money And Help For LowIncome Entrepreneurs
There are over 1,000 Community Action Agencies across America and 39% of
these offices provide help to low-income people who want to start or expand a
business. Their programs include “Be Your Own Boss” and “Start a Home Day
Care.” For more information, contact your nearest agency: Community Action
Partnership, 1140 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 1210, Washington, DC 20036;
202-265-7546; http://www.communityactionpartnership.com/;
http://www.communityactionpartnership.com/index.php?option=com_spreadsheet
s&view=search&spreadsheet=cap&Itemid=188 (click on your state and county)
22) 59 Venture Capitalists Looking To Invest In Poor Areas
The Community Development Venture Capital Alliance (CDVCA) is an
association of venture capitalists who are looking to invest in companies located in
distressed and neglected areas throughout the world to help improve wage and
employment opportunities, provide training for workers and businesses, and to
help improve society as a whole. The venture capitalists offer assistance when
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
most banks and financial institutions turn down these businesses or do not offer
services in these areas. Often rural and distressed regions are not fully served and
are in need of special types of assistance. The Alliance has over 100 members
willing and able to provide the needed help and business assistance to companies
willing to take the risk and grow in these communities. As venture capitalists, they
do not require immediate loan repayment, but become part owners in the
company. They have a vested interest in the success of your company. To learn
more about the programs offered and to see what is available in your area, contact:
Community Development Venture Capital Alliance, 424 West 33rd Street, Suite
320, New York, NY 10001; 212-594-6747; http://cdvca.org/
23) Save $1 And The Government Will Give You $3
The program called Individual Development Accounts (IDA) gives low-income
individuals who would otherwise not be able to save money the chance to save
faster by the government matching $3 for every $1 you put into a savings
program. The money can be used for housing, starting a business, or education.
For more information or to see if there is an IDA Network near you, contact:
Corporation for Enterprise Development, 1200 G St., NW, Suite 400, Washington,
DC 20005; 202-408-9788; http://cfed.org/programs/idas/. You can check the
directory list at: http://cfed.org/programs/idas/directory_search/
24) U.S. Treasury Provides Money For Low-Income Communities
Are you a member of the general public who is looking for a loan, perhaps to
renovate your home or start your own business? The Community Development
Financial Institutions Fund, or CDFI Fund, is a program within the U.S.
Department of the Treasury that awards money and tax credits to communitybased organizations that work in low-income urban and rural communities across
America. These organizations, known as CDFIs, all have a common mission of
working toward revitalizing economically depressed communities or communities
underserved by mainstream financial institutions and improving the quality of life
of those that live and work in these communities. To find funding sources near
you, contact: Community Development Financial Institutions Fund, 1801 L
Street, NW, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20036; 202-622-6355;
http://cdfifund.gov/. There is information to apply to a CDFI here:
http://cdfifund.gov/what_we_do/need_a_loan.asp and you can go to a searchable
database here: http://cdfifund.gov/awardees/db/index.asp
25) See How You Can Do Your Business With A Lot Less Money
If you can’t get your project financed the way you want, think about restructuring
your idea in another format that does not take so much money. Maybe you can:
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
1. hook up with an existing business as a subsidiary instead of starting your
own,
2. become a distributor of a product instead of a manufacturer,
3. start on the web instead of a building or office,
4. start selling a service instead of a product
The important thing in life is not having the perfect business to run right now, but
to continually take steps TOWARDS something you like and away from what you
don’t like. Check out this video to learn more: Start A Business With $400 Or
Less at http://www.lesko.com/nojobs_nogrants_getacontract.php
26) $2,000 To $2,000,000 To Start A Business
Each year over 1,000,000 entrepreneurs will get government money to start or
expand their business. You can get $20,000 to start a business at home or millions
to build an energy business in Texas. This money can be in the form of grants,
loans, loan guarantees, venture capital, and contracts. There are literally
thousands of places to contact at the state, federal, and local government level.
The best place to start is at your state Office of Economic Development located in
your state capital http://www.govengine.com/, but make sure you do not stop
there.
27) $250,000 To Work On Your Invention
The Small Business Innovative Research Program (SBIR) stimulates technological
innovation, encourages small science and technology based firms to participate in
government funded research, and provides incentives for converting research
results into commercial applications. Eleven federal agencies with research and
development budgets greater that $100 million are required by law to participate in
the SBIR program. Businesses of 500 or fewer employees that are organized forprofit are eligible to compete for SBIR funding. All areas of research and
development solicit for proposals and the 2009 awards for SBIR were over $26.9
billion. There are three phases of the program: Phase I determines whether the
research idea, often on high risk advanced concepts, is technically feasible;
whether the firm can do high quality research; and whether sufficient progress has
been made to justify a larger Phase II effort. This phase is usually funded for six
months with awards up to $100,000. Phase II is the principal research effort, and
is usually limited to a maximum of $750,000 for up to two years. Phase III
pursues potential commercial applications of the research funded under the first
two phases, and is supported solely by nonfederal funding, usually from third
party, venture capital, or large industrial firms. SBIR is one of the most
competitive research and development programs in the government today. To
assist the small business community in its SBIR efforts, the U.S. Small Business
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Administration publishes the Pre-Solicitation Announcement (PSA) in December,
March, June, and September of each year. Every issue of the PSA contains
pertinent information on the SBIR Program along with details on SBIR
solicitations that are about to be released. This publication eliminates the need for
small business concerns to track the activities of all federal agencies participating
in the SBIR program. In recognition of the difficulties encountered by many small
firms in their efforts to locate sources of funding essential to finalization of their
innovative products, SBA has developed the Commercialization Matching System.
This system contains information on all SBIR awardees as well as financing
sources that have indicated an interest in investing in SBIR innovations. Firms
interested in obtaining more information on the SBIR program or receiving the
PSA should contact the Office of Technology, Small Business Administration, 409
Third St., SW, MC/6470, Washington, DC 20416; 202-205-6450;
http://www.sba.gov/content/small-business-innovation-research-program-sbir-0
28) Hire A Vet; Get A Break
President Obama signed into law a measure that provides tax credits to companies
that hire unemployed veterans. Companies can claim a credit against taxes owed –
as much as $5,600 for hiring veterans, and as much as $9,600 for hiring veterans
with service-connected disabilities, if the veteran has been looking for work for six
months or longer. The new law also provides as much as $2,400 for hiring a
veteran who has been looking for work for one to six months. The tax credits are
part of a measure that also repeals a requirement that federal, state and local
governments begin withholding 3 percent of payments to contractors in 2013. To
further encourage hiring veterans, the government can pay employers for
providing on-the-job training to veterans who haven’t been rehabilitated, up to the
point of employability. To read more about the new VOW to Hire Heroes Act, go
to: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/11/21/president-obama-hire-veteran or
http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=253949,00.html
29) Free Help To Start Your Own Business
The Center for Veterans Enterprise (CVE) is a centralized program to help
veterans start up and succeed in business. Their goal is to support economic
empowerment for every veteran entrepreneur and to provide assistance for
veterans and service-disabled veterans who are considering business ownership.
They provide assistance in management, marketing, financing and even provide a
mentoring program. The Center for Veterans Enterprise works in conjunction with
the Small Business Administration (SBA) to maximize the benefits for veterans.
There are SBA Veterans Business Development Offices in each state. To declare
your firm as a veteran owned business, a veteran or group of veterans must have
51% ownership and control of the business. A similar 51% rule is applied to
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
businesses owned by service-disabled veterans. Contact: U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs, The Center for Veterans Enterprise (00VE), 810 Vermont
Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20420; 202-565-8336; 866-584-2344;
http://www.vetbiz.gov/
30) Government Contractors That Have To Hire A Vet
When you are looking for a job, you should consider applying at companies that
have contracts and subcontracts with the Federal government. Any contractor or
subcontractor with a contract of $25,000 or more with the Federal Government
must take affirmative action to hire and promote qualified targeted veterans which
includes, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam-era, or recently
separated veterans. Contractors and subcontractors with openings for jobs, other
than executive or top management positions, positions which are to be filled from
within the contractor’s organization, and positions lasting 3 days or less, must list
them with the nearest State Job Service (also known as State Employment Service)
office. Qualified targeted veterans receive priority for referral to Federal
contractor job openings listed at those offices. Federal contractors are not required
to hire those referred, but must have affirmative action plans. Companies must
file an annual VETS-100 report, which shows the number of targeted veterans in
their workforce by job category, hiring location, and number of new hires.
Instructions, information and follow-up assistance is provided at VETS-100
Internet site at: http://www.dol.gov/vets/programs/fcp/main.htm or employers may
contact the VETS-100 Processing Center at: 866-237-0275. For copies of
Affirmative Action Obligations of Contractors and Subcontractors for Disabled
Veterans and Veterans of the Vietnam Era, Rules and Regulations, contact: Office
of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Employment Standards
Administration, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, U.S. Department of Labor,
Washington, DC 20210.
31) FREE Help For Vets
President Obama is doing all he can to help our returning servicemen and women
get the help they need to re-enter the work force once their military career has
ended. Currently over 500,000 veterans and family members are going to college
to get their degrees through the GI Bill. This fall they will start including
vocational training and apprenticeships to help veterans get the skills they need to
be employed in the private sector. But that is not enough in this economy, so the
President has proposed several initiative’s to help the cause:
1. Get up to $9,600 For Hiring A Vet
Returning Heroes and Wounded Warrior Tax Credits: A new
Returning Heroes Tax Credit for firms that hire unemployed
veterans (maximum credit of $2,400 for every short-term
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
unemployed hire and $4,800 for every long-term unemployed hire)
and a Wounded Warriors Tax Credit which will increase the existing
tax credit for firms that hire veterans with service-connected
disabilities who have been unemployed long-term (maximum credit
of $9,600 per veteran) and continue the existing credit for all other
veterans with a service-connected disability (maximum credit of
$4,800). To learn more about Work Opportunity Tax Credit go to
http://www.doleta.gov/business/incentives/opptax/
2. 100,000 Vets To Be Hired Before 2014
A Challenge to the Private Sector to Hire or Train 100,000
Unemployed Veterans or Their Spouses by the End of 2013: The
President will challenge businesses to commit to hire or provide
training to unemployed veterans or their spouses. Joining Forces will
lead this work with businesses and industry. To learn more about
Joining Forces go to http://www.whitehouse.gov/joiningforces/
3. Improve Help So Veterans Can Join The Civilian Workforce
Presidential Call for a Career-Ready Military: The Departments of
Defense and Veterans Affairs, working closely with other agencies
and the President’s economic and domestic policy teams, will lead a
new task force to develop reforms to ensure that every member of
the service receives the training, education, and credentials they need
to transition to the civilian workforce or to pursue higher education.
These reforms will include the design of a “reverse bootcamp,”
which will extend the transition period to give service members
more counseling and guidance and leave them career-ready. To
learn about current benefits through the Department of Veterans
Affairs go to http://va.gov/
4. Special Help At Career Centers For Vets
Transition to the Private Sector: The Department of Labor will
establish a new initiative to deliver an enhanced career development
and job search service package to transitioning veterans at their local
One-Stop Career Centers. The Office of Personnel Management will
create a “Best Practices” Manual for the private sector to help
businesses identify and hire veterans. To get the latest information
and training resources available contact your local One-Stop Career
Center at http://servicelocator.org/
32) Learn Financial And Money Management Principles
The Centers for Financial Education develops and offers curricula and materials
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
covering a full range of financial management skills including borrowing basics,
budgeting, goal setting, credit management, savings, and more. For more
information, contact: Money Management International, 14141 Southwest
Freeway, Suite 1000, Sugar Land, TX 77478; 800-308-2227;
http://www.crediteducation.org/
33) Minority And Women-Owned Business Enterprises
The National Minority Business Council provides business assistance, educational
opportunities, and seminars to assist minority, women and veteran owned
businesses. These businesses can receive contract procurement and RFP
announcements, assistance in accessing capital markets, SBA8(a) certification
assistance, education and training, consulting and needs assessments, participate in
purchasing exchanges, and more. For more information, contact: National
Minority Business Council, 1200 Broadway, 19th Floor, New York, NY 10271;
212-693-5050; http://nmbc.org/home
34) Funding For Low-Income Teen Entrepreneurs
The National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship's BizCamp is a one- to
two-week intensive summer program for youth ages 13-18 who are interested in
entrepreneurship. At the end of the camp, students compete for cash awards to
fund their businesses. The Foundation also offers school year programs and more
to help low-income youths learn about entrepreneurship and to help them plan a
future. For more information, contact: National Foundation for Teaching
Entrepreneurship, 120 Wall Street, 29th Floor, New York, NY 10005; 212-2323333 or 800-For-NFTE; http://www.nfte.com/
35) Financial Assistance For Minority-Owned Businesses
A wide range of programs and services are available including: referrals to
corporate buyers of minority suppliers; working capital loans as well as longerterm financing; business consulting services; educational seminars and technical
assistance; certification of minority business enterprises; access to the Minority
Business Information Center; an advanced management education program;
business opportunity fairs; and more. For more information, contact: National
Minority Supplier Development Council, 1359 Broadway, Tenth Floor, New
York, NY 10018; 212-944-2430; http://www.nmsdc.org/nmsdc/#.T9SllLCXQpE
36) $1,000 For Teen Entrepreneurs
Youth Venture is a national non-profit organization that empowers young people
12-20 to start their own enterprises by providing them with a variety of resources,
including up to $1,000 in seed capital. For more information, contact: Youth
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Venture, 1700 North Moore Street, Suite 2000, Arlington, VA 22209; 703-5274126; http://www.genv.net/
37) What Are The Best Opportunities In A Lousy Economy
If your idea is not gaining traction it may be a good time to start re-evaluating and
try to figure out how you can make your idea be a part of something that will be
growing in the world so that you will be part of the wave when it starts booming.
A lot of success stories are not because of brilliance or thoughtful planning but
because someone was at the right place at the right time. You can start positioning
your business to be part of something that has a high likelihood of booming in the
near future so that YOU can be in the right place at the right time. There is always
a lot more room for new entrepreneurs in areas that are growing than in areas that
are static or shrinking. For example, it may be a bad time if you have an idea to
sell a product to Wall Street, which is collapsing versus the Green Economy,
which seems to be getting ready to boom. Great Opportunities In A Lousy
Economy:
http://www.lesko.com/great_opportunities_in_a_lousy_economy.php
38) Get A Contract
The National Association of Minority Contractors can provide your business with
information and support on issues that concern minority contractors. Education
and training is available through the state chapters throughout the country. For
more information, contact: The National Association of Minority Contractors,
1300 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20004; 202-204-3093;
http://www.namcnational.org/
39) Help For Hispanic-Owned Businesses
The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was established nearly 25
years ago to provide a business network that promotes Hispanic-owned
businesses. Through the National organization and over 200 local Hispanic
Chamber of Commerce offices, a variety of programs are available. They offer
Chamber training seminars, Latino youth entrepreneurship program, and a
procurement council. For more information, contact: United States Hispanic
Chamber of Commerce, 1424 K Street, NW, Suite 401; Washington, DC 20037;
202-842-1212; Fax: 202-842-3221; http://www.ushcc.com/
40) Help For Pan Asian American Businesses
The U.S. Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce represents all Asian
Americans and Asian American businesses. They offer seminars and programs
covering a wide range of business topics and offer procurement connections,
contract opportunities and a certification program. To learn more, contact: US
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce, 1329 18th St., NW, Washington, DC
20036; 202-296-5221; http://uspaacc.com/
41) Free Help For People With Disabilities To Start A Business
The Small Business and Self Employment Service is part of the Office of
Disability Employment Policy of the U.S. Department of Labor which provides
comprehensive information, counseling and referrals about self-employment and
small business ownership opportunities for people with disabilities.
Entrepreneurship is an exciting opportunity for people with disabilities to realize
their full potential while becoming financially self-supporting. Some of the
benefits of self-employment or small business include working at home, control of
your work schedule and the independence that comes from making your own
decisions. Contact: Small Business and Self-Employment Service, Job
Accommodation Network, PO Box 6080, Morgantown, WV 26506-6080; 800526-7234 V/TT; Fax: 304-293-5407; http://askjan.org/entre/index.htm
42) Free Financial Counseling Services
Your local cooperative extension service offers free or very low fee courses and
workshops on all kinds of subjects, including personal finance, small business,
food and nutrition, plants and gardening, pets and animals, and health care.
Contact your Local County Cooperative Extension service listed in the blue pages
of your telephone directory or you can also find your local office at:
http://www.csrees.usda.gov/Extension/
43) Minority Business Development Centers
If you want to start or expand a business and you belong to a minority group, the
Department of Commerce has something special just for you. The Minority
Business Development Agency funds over 40 Business Development Centers
(MBDC), Native American Business Development Centers (NABDC), Business
Resource Centers (BRC), and Minority Business opportunity Committees
(MBOC) nationwide to assist with the start-up, expansion, and acquisition of
competitive minority owned firms offering quality goods and services. These
centers provide business assistance for bonding, bidding, estimating, financing,
procurement, international trade, franchising, acquisitions, mergers, and joint
ventures to increase opportunities in domestic and international markets for
minority entrepreneurs. Individuals that are eligible for the centers' business
assistance are those that are socially or economically disadvantaged individuals
who own or wish to start a business. Such persons include: Spanish Speaking
Americans, Asian Pacific Americans, Asian Indians, Native and AfricanAmericans, Aleuts, Eskimos, Puerto Ricans, and Hasidic Jews. These centers are
operated by private firms, non-profit organizations, state and local government
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
agencies, Native American tribes, and educational institutions. The centers provide
one-on-one counseling for accounting, administration, business planning,
construction, and marketing information. They also identify minority owned firms
for contract and subcontract opportunities with federal, state, and local
government agencies, and the private sector. The centers identify both private and
public sector sources of financing for minority owned firms and assist with the
preparation of financial documents and plans for submission to lenders.
The Minority Business Development Agency is also a co-sponsor with the Small
Business Administration on activities for Minority Enterprise Development Week
(MED Week), which is a national yearly celebration that honors American
minority entrepreneurs and the individuals and organizations that support their
business development. Regional MED Week activities are held in the weeks prior
to the observed MED Week, which is the first full week of October. If you need
more information, you may contact the national headquarters at Minority Business
Development Agency, 14th and Constitution, Washington, DC 20230; 202-4823917 or 888-324-1551; http://www.mbda.gov/
44) Considering Flex-Time?
Flex-Options Guide provides information on the different types of work schedules
which allow your employees some flexibility from the 9-5 work week. The Guide
shows you the benefits and how to establish these programs in your workplace. It
also outlines issues and concerns which need to be addressed for each option. To
view the guide, go to:
http://www.genderprinciples.org/resource_files/Flex_Options_Guide.pdf. They
also offer a publication called “Work-Life Balance and the Economic of
Workplace Flexibility”, which outlines the costs and benefits of flex time at:
http://www.dol.gov/wb/media/100331-cea-economics-workplace-flexibility.pdf.
For more information, contact: Women's Bureau, U.S. Department of Labor, 200
Constitution Avenue NW, Room S-3311, Washington, DC 20210; 800-827-5335
or 202-693-6710; http://www.dol.gov/wb/
45) Women Can Get Help From The SBA
The Office of Women's Business Ownership (OWBO) helps women achieve their
dreams and improve their communities by helping them start and run successful
businesses, regardless of social or financial disadvantage, race, ethnicity or
business background. OWBO promotes the growth of women-owned businesses
through programs that address business training and technical assistance, and
provide access to credit and capital, federal contracts, and international trade
opportunities. With a women's business ownership representative in every SBA
district office, a nationwide network of mentoring roundtables, women's business
centers in nearly every state and territory, women-owned venture capital
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
companies, OWBO is helping unprecedented numbers of women start and build
successful businesses. For more information, contact: Office of Women's
Business Ownership, Small Business Administration, 409 Third Street SW, Sixth
Floor, Washington, DC 20416; 202-205-6673;
http://www.sba.gov/content/women%E2%80%99s-business-centers
46) Business Centers Just For You
The SBA's Women’s Business Center (WBC) program is a national network of
WBCs providing educational resources to help women start and grow successful
small businesses. The program's mission is to level the playing field for women
entrepreneurs still facing unique obstacles in the business world. There are 115
Centers throughout the country. They can found at:
http://www.awbc.biz/locate.asp According to the Mendocino Women’s Business
Center, The Women's Business Center program, funded by the Small Business
Administration and through locally matched dollars, provides free one-on-one
consulting to women-owned businesses, start-ups, and self-employed women in
the county. One-on-one consulting programs are customized to meet the individual
needs of the clients. The WBC also provides low- and no-cost workshops and
training seminars to help women gain the skills and knowledge they need to better
manage their business and to become more successful. For more information,
contact: Office of Women's Business Ownership, Small Business Administration,
409 Third Street SW, Sixth Floor, Washington, DC 20416; 202-205-6673;
http://www.sba.gov/content/women%E2%80%99s-business-centers
47) Free Government Contracting Online Course
The SBA provides information on the various programs that can help you position
your business for contracting opportunities throughout the Federal Government.
“Business Opportunities: A Guide to Winning Federal Contracts” reviews how the
government buys and provides an overview on regulations, policies, and best
practices. In addition, it provides a step-by-step process on how to register your
small business for various contracting programs, including business matchmaking
events and reviewing small business certification programs. Finally, it walks you
through the process of preparing your bid. To register for this free course, go
to: http://www.sba.gov/gcclassroom
48) Save To Reach Your Goal
SSI eligibility and payment amount are based on income and resources (things of
value that individual owns). PASS lets disabled individuals set aside money
and/or things he or she owns to pay for items or services needed to achieve a
specific work goal. You find out what training, items or services are needed to
reach the work goal, such as supplies to start a business, school expenses,
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
equipment and tools, transportation and uniform requests and how much these
items and services will cost. PASS can help you save to pay these costs. PASS
lets you set aside money for installment payments as well as a down payment for
things like a vehicle, wheelchair or computer if needed to reach work goal. You
need to decide on a work goal and determine items and services necessary to
achieve this goal, and you can get help in setting up a plan from a vocational
rehabilitation (VR) counselor, which is an organization that helps people with
disabilities; Benefits Specialists or Protection and Advocacy organizations who
have contracts with SSA; Employment Networks involved in the Ticket to Work
program; the local Social Security office or anyone else willing to help you.
Contact local SSA office; SSA work site or some third parties shown above to get
a PASS form (SSA-545-BK) to complete and bring or mail it to the Social
Security office. SSA usually approves plans prepared by VR (if goal is selfemployment, there must also be a business plan). To learn more, contact your
local Social Security office or go to:
http://www.ssa.gov/disabilityresearch/wi/pass.htm#PASS
49) Help For Contractors And Others To Get Bonded To Obtain
Contracts
Under this program, small contractors unable to obtain a bond are guaranteed
surety bonds issued by commercial surety companies. Guarantees are for up to
ninety percent of the losses incurred and are paid by participating sureties when
conditions are met. Types of assistance: insurance (guaranteed surety bonds). To
learn more about surety bonds and the application process, contact: Office of
Surety Guarantees, Small Business Administration, 409 Third Street, SW,
Washington, DC 20416; 202-205-6540; http://www.sba.gov/about-officescontent/1/2891
50) Money To Invest In Companies Overseas
The Overseas Private Investment Corporation provides financing for investments
in developing countries for projects that contribute to the social and economic
development of the host country and at the same time have a positive impact on
the U.S. economy. OPIC disqualifies projects that may have a negative effect on
the environment, U.S. employment, the host country's development, or would
violate internationally recognized worker rights. Direct loans can only be made for
private sector projects where there is significant involvement by a U.S. small
business. Types of assistance: guaranteed insured loans; direct loans (70.002
Foreign Investment Financing). To learn more, contact: Information Officer,
Overseas Private Investment Corporation, 1100 New York Ave, NW, Washington,
DC 20527; 202-336-8400; Fax: 202-336-8700; http://www.opic.gov/
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
51) Free Patent Licenses To Develop And Market Energy Saving
Inventions
The Department of Energy (DOE) grants nonexclusive, revocable patent licenses
to qualified applicants with plans to develop and/or market one of the more that
1,200 DOE owned U.S. patents. Type of assistance: dissemination of technical
information. The Obama Administration’s Start-Up America Initiative supports
innovation and entrepreneurship through a set of entrepreneur-focused policy
initiatives in five areas: unlocking access to capital; connecting mentors; reducing
barriers; accelerating innovation; and unleashing market opportunities. The
Energy Department will continue to look at ways to reduce barriers to licensing to
both established companies as well as start-ups while promoting their technology
opportunities. Check out more information at the Energy Innovation Portal at:
http://techportal.eere.energy.gov/. You can learn more about patents available and
marketing summaries at:
http://techportal.eere.energy.gov/category/startup_america
52) $500,000 Grant To Work On An Energy Related Invention
The U.S. Department of Energy's Inventions and Innovation program provides
financial and technical support to inventors and businesses to develop energy
saving concepts and technologies. They offer a variety of funding opportunities.
They have cost-shared research and development, a link to federal, regional, state
and local organizations that offer rebates, grants, loans, and more at:
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/financing/. Contact: Advanced Manufacturing
Office, U.S. Department of Energy, Weatherization and Intergovernmental
Programs, 1000 Independence Avenue, SW, Room 5F-065, MS EE-2F,
Washington, DC 20585; 202-586-9488 or 877-337-3463;
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/manufacturing/
53) Counseling To Help Women And Minority Owned Businesses
Get Department Of Energy Contracts
This program strives to support increased participation of minority and women
owned and operated small businesses; to develop energy related minority small
business assistance programs; to encourage public/private partnerships to provide
technical assistance to MBEs; to transfer applicable technology from national
Federal laboratories to MBEs; and to increase the Department of Energy's high
technology research and development contracting activities. Services provided by
this program include identification and compilation of DOE procurement
opportunities; technical assistance; dissemination of DOE energy technology
opportunities; financial proposal and bid assistance; and matching business
opportunities in public and private organizations with minority businesses and
educational institutions. Type of assistance: advisory services and counseling.
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Contact: Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, U.S.
Department of Energy, Washington, DC 20585; 202-5867377; http://www.doe.gov/diversity/services/supporting-small-businesses
54) Grants To Develop Energy Saving Products
This program offers grants to conduct research in the areas of buildings, industry
and transportation. Grants are also offered to develop and transfer conservation
technology to the non-federal sector. The Department of Energy EERE offices
involved in this program are the Office of Building Technology, Office of
Freedom CAR and Vehicle Technologies, Office of Industrial Technologies, and
the Office of Hydrogen, Fuel Cells and Infrastructure. Type of Assistance: project
grants. (81.086 Conservation Research and Development) Contact: Office of
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Mail Stop EE-1, Department
of Energy, Washington, DC 28585; 202-586-9220 or 877-337-3463;
http://www.eere.energy.gov/
55) Grants To Work On Solar Energy Products
The Department of Energy provides funding to conduct research and development
efforts in the following energy technologies: distributed energy and electric
reliability, solar, hydrogen, biomass, fuel cells and infrastructure, geothermal,
wind and hydropower. Grants are also offered to develop and transfer these
renewable energy technologies to the scientific and industrial communities, and
state and local governments. Type of assistance: project grants. (81.087
Renewable Energy Research and Development) Contact: Office of Energy
Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Mail Stop EE-1, Department of
Energy, Washington, DC 28585; 202-586-9220 or 877-337-3463;
http://www.eere.energy.gov/
56) $2,000,000 Grant To Work On Fossil Energy Ideas
The focus of the Fossil Energy Research and Development program is to promote
the development and use of environmentally and economically advanced
technologies for supply, conversion, delivery and utilization of fossil fuels.
Cooperative agreements will involve industry, DOE laboratories, universities and
states. The successes of this program will benefit everyone through lower energy
costs, reduced environmental impact, increased technology exports, and reduced
dependence on foreign energy sources. Type of assistance: project grants and
cooperative agreements. (81.089 Fossil Energy Research and Development)
Contact: National Energy Technology Laboratory, 626 Cochrans Mill Rd., P.O.
Box 10940, Pittsburgh, PA 15236; 412-386-4984; http://www.netl.doe.gov/
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
57) When To Invest In Yourself
Matthew Lesko explains why your best investment will not be the stock market,
real estate, gold or any other commodity but YOU...And how you can get free
money and help to do it. Check it out:
http://www.lesko.com/invest_in_yourself.php
58) Grants To Market Food Related Products To Emerging Markets
Overseas
The Emerging Markets Program's goal is to promote, enhance, or expand the
export of U.S. agricultural commodities in low to middle income countries that are
likely to emerge as promising export markets in the near future. U.S. agricultural
and agribusiness firms, especially those that need assistance in obtaining or
maintaining access to overseas markets, may be eligible for cost-share assistance
to implement an Emerging Markets Program. Program funds may be used to
finance activities such as feasibility studies, market research, sectorial
assessments, orientation visits, specialized training, and business workshops. Type
of assistance: direct payments for specified use. (10.603 Emerging Markets
Program) Contact: Director, Marketing Operations Staff, Foreign Agricultural
Services, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250; 202-7200866; http://www.fas.usda.gov/mos/em-markets/em-markets.asp
59) Grants To Biomass Crop Producers
The Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP) provides financial assistance to
owners and operators of agricultural and non-industrial private forest land who
wish to establish, produce, and deliver biomass feedstocks. BCAP provides two
categories of assistance:
 Matching payments may be available for the delivery of eligible material to
qualified biomass conversion facilities by eligible material owners.
Qualified biomass conversion facilities produce heat, power, biobased
products, or advanced biofuels from biomass feedstocks.
 Establishment and annual payments may be available to certain producers
who enter into contracts with the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) to
produce eligible biomass crops on contract acres within BCAP project
areas.
Contact: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, Kansas City
Commodity Office, Contract Reconciliation Division, P.O. Box 419205, Stop
8758, Kansas City, MO 64141-6205; 816-926-6525;
http://www.fsa.usda.gov/FSA/webapp?area=home&subject=ener&topic=landing
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
60) Money To Farmers, Ranchers, And Aquaculture Businesses
This program assists eligible farmers, ranchers, and aquaculture operators,
including farming cooperatives, corporations, partnerships, and joint operations,
through the extension of credit and supervisory assistance to become owneroperators of not larger than family farms; make efficient use of the land, labor, and
other resources; carry on sound and successful farming operations; and enable
farm families to have a reasonable standard of living. Loan funds may be used to
enlarge, improve, and buy family farms; provide necessary water and water
facilities; provide basic soil treatment and land conservation measures; construct,
repair, and improve essential buildings needed in the operation of a family farm;
construct or repair farm dwellings; or provide facilities to produce fish under
controlled conditions. Types of assistance: direct loans and guaranteed/insured
loans. (10.407 Farm Ownership Loans) Contact: U.S. Department of Agriculture,
Farm Service Agency, Director, Loan Making Division, AgBox 0522,
Washington, DC 20250; 202-720-1632;
http://www.fsa.usda.gov/FSA/frmapp?area=home&subject=gfmlp&topic=landing
61) $3,000,000 In Venture Capital
The goal of this program is to promote economic development and job
opportunities in low-income geographic areas through developmental venture
capital investments in smaller businesses located in such areas. The SBA
designates New Markets Venture Capital companies which are eligible to receive
guaranteed loans and project grants. The guaranteed loan funds are used to make
equity capital investments in smaller businesses located in low-income geographic
areas. Grant funds are used to provide management and technical assistance to
these smaller enterprises in connection with the capital investments. Types of
assistance: project grants and guaranteed/insured loans. (59.051 New Markets
Venture Capital) Contact: Director, New Markets Venture Capital Program, 409
3rd Street, NW, Suite 6300, Washington, DC 20416; 202-205-6510 or 800-8ASKSBA; Fax: 202-205-6013; http://www.sba.gov/content/new-markets-venturecapital-companies
62) Short-Term, Working-Capital Loans For Small Businesses
CAPLines is a SBA loan program that helps small businesses meet their short term
and cyclical working capital needs. Under the CAPLine program, there are five
short term working capital loans: Seasonal line, Contract line, Builders line,
Standard asset-based line, and Small asset-based line. The Seasonal line is an
advance against anticipated inventory and accounts receivable during peak seasons
when businesses experience seasonal sales fluctuations. The loan can be revolving
or non-revolving. A Contract line finances the material cost and direct labor
associated with performing assignable contracts. It can be revolving or nonMatthew Lesko - www.lesko.com
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
revolving. A Builders line is for small general contractors or builders who are
constructing or renovating commercial or residential buildings. The building
project serves as collateral, and loans can be revolving or non-revolving. A
Standard asset-based line is a revolving line of credit for businesses unable to meet
credit requirements for long term credit. It provides financing for cyclical growth
and recurring and/or short term needs. A Small asset-based line is a revolving line
of credit up to $200,000. It operates like a standard asset-based line except that
some of the stricter requirements are waived providing the business demonstrates
repayment ability. Type of assistance: direct loans. (59.012 Small Business Loans)
Contact: Office of Financial Assistance, CAPLines Program, Small Business
Administration, 409 Third Street, SW, Washington, DC 20416; 202-205-6490 or
800-UASK-SBA; http://www.sba.gov/content/caplines or
http://www.sba.gov/category/navigation-structure/loans-grants/small-businessloans/sba-loan-programs/7a-loan-program
63) $1,000,000 To Sell Your Goods And Services Overseas
The International Trade Loan program helps businesses that are preparing to
engage in or are already engaged in international trade, or are adversely affected
by competition from imports. Applicants must establish that the loan will
significantly expand or develop an export market, currently be adversely affected
by import competition, upgrade equipment or facilities to improve competitive
position, or be able to provide a business plan that reasonably projects sufficient
export sales to cover the loan. Loan funds may be used to acquire, construct,
renovate, modernize, improve or expand facilities and equipment to be used in the
U.S. in order to produce goods or services involved in international trade, and to
develop and penetrate foreign markets. International Trade Loan funds cannot be
used to repay debt. Type of assistance: guaranteed loans. (59.012 Small Business
Loans) Contact: Office of Financial Assistance, International Trade Loan
Program, Small Business Administration, 409 Third Street, SW, Washington, DC
20416; 202-205-6490 or 800-UASK-SBA; http://www.sba.gov/content/exportloan-programs
64) $750,000 For Businesses Hurt By North American Free Trade
Agreement
The U.S. Community Adjustment and Investment Program (CAIP) was
established to aid communities that suffered job losses due to changing trade
patterns with Canada and Mexico after the North American Free Trade Agreement
(NAFTA). CAIP increases the availability of credit to encourage business
development and expansion in impacted areas. Through CAIP, credit is available
to businesses in eligible communities to create new, sustainable jobs or to preserve
existing jobs. CAIP works with the SBA in both the 7(a) loan program and 504
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
programs to reduce borrower costs and increase the availability of funds. Eligible
businesses must be located in, or relocating to, a specific geographic area
designated as eligible for funding under the CAIP by the U.S. Treasury and the
NAD Bank. Type of assistance: guaranteed loans. (59.012 Small Business Loans)
Contact: Office of Financial Assistance, CAIP Program, Small Business
Administration, 409 Third Street, SW, Washington, DC 20416; 202-205-6490 or
800-UASK-SBA; http://www.sba.gov/content/caip
65) $1,250,000 To Sell Your Goods And Services Overseas
The Export Working Capital Program (EWCP) is designed to provide short term
working capital to exporters who have been in business for at least one full year.
The EWCP supports export financing to small businesses when other financing is
not available on reasonable terms. The program encourages lending by
guaranteeing loans up to $1,000,000 or 90% of a loan amount, whichever is less.
Loans through the EWCP must be used to finance the working capital needs
associated with single or multiple transactions of the exporter. Type of assistance:
guaranteed/insured loans. (59.012 Small Business Loans) Contact: Office of
Financial Assistance, Special Purpose Loans, Export Working Capital Program,
Small Business Administration, 409 Third Street, SW, Washington, DC 20416;
800-UASK-SBA or 202-205-6490; http://www.sba.gov/content/export-loanprograms#Export Working Capital Program (EWCP)
66) $750,000 To Start Or Expand A Small Business
7(a) loans are the most basic and the most used of the SBA's business loan
programs. The loans are from commercial lenders, but are guaranteed by the SBA.
Small businesses are considered for eligibility based on size, type of business, use
of proceeds, and the availability of funds from other sources. 7(a) loan funds may
be used to establish a new business, or to assist in the operation, expansion or
acquisition of an existing business. Eligible uses include the purchase of land or
buildings, new construction as well as expansion or conversion of existing
facilities; to acquire equipment, machinery, furniture, fixtures, supplies or
materials; long-term working capital including the payment of accounts payable
and/or the purchase of inventory; to purchase an existing business; and to
refinance existing business debts which are not already structured with reasonable
terms and conditions. Type of assistance: guaranteed loans. (59.012 Small
Business Loans) Contact: Office of Financial Assistance, 7(a) Loan Program,
Small Business Administration, 409 Third Street, SW, Washington, DC 20416;
202-205-6490 or 800-UASK-SBA; http://www.sba.gov/category/navigationstructure/loans-grants/small-business-loans/sba-loan-programs/7a-loan-program
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
67) $10,000,000 To Help Sell Overseas
Ex-Im Bank assists U.S. exporters by guaranteeing financing to credit worthy
international buyers for purchase of U.S. goods and services, and exports to large
scale projects. Financing may also be available for refurbished equipment,
software, certain banking and legal fees, and certain local costs and expenses. The
benefits of this program include flexible financing options and repayment terms,
no limits on transaction size, medium and long term financing, 100% coverage of
commercial and political risks, and it enables buyers to obtain loans from lenders.
To qualify for Ex-Im support, the product or services must be made up of at least
50% U.S. content, and must be shipped from the U.S. to an international buyer.
Military or defense items are not eligible, nor are sales to military buyers. The
loans are available for up to 85% of the U.S. export value. Type of assistance: loan
guarantees. (Medium and Long Term Loan Guarantee Program) Contact: Export
Finance Department, Export-Import Bank of the United States, 811 Vermont
Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20571; 202-565-3946 or 800-565-3946;
http://www.exim.gov/products/index.cfm
68) Training Close To Home
You may only need to look as far as your local school district to find training
programs that may fit your needs. Many offer adult education courses either at
their schools or at local area career centers. One career center near me offers fire
fighting, business training, computer literacy, GED classes, and more. Most are
very reasonably priced and may lead to a certificate to get you on your way.
Check out your local school system to see what adult classes they offer or contact
your state Department of Adult Education, which can be found at:
http://wdcrobcolp01.ed.gov/Programs/EROD/org_list.cfm?category_ID=DAE
69) The Center For Veterans Enterprise
VETBiz is the federal web site for veterans in business. They offer information on
everything a veteran needs to start a small business, including a register of veteran
owned businesses. To find out more, contact: The Center for Veterans Enterprise,
U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Washington,
DC 20420; 202-303-3260 or 866-584-2344; Fax: 202-254-0238;
http://www.vetbiz.gov/
70) VetFran Business Program
VetFran helps to make owning a franchise operation more affordable for U.S.
veterans. Veterans can get started in a franchise with initial investment assistance.
Contact: VetFran Business Program, International Franchise Association, 1350
New York Avenue, NW, Suite 900, Washington, DC 20005-4709; 202-628-8000;
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Fax: 202-628-0812; http://www.franchise.org/ and
http://www.franchise.org/Veteran-Franchise.aspx
71) The Veterans Corporation
The Veterans Corporation is a business e-portal for current and prospective
Veteran business owners and for those interested in working with Veteran-owned
businesses. They offer:
 Veterans Entrepreneurial Training Program: Veterans Corporation
offers FastTrac New Venture for veterans wanting to become entrepreneurs
and FastTrac Planning for veteran business owners that want to expand
their existing business.
 Financing: Veterans Corporation help veterans meet their capital needs by
offering assistance to qualified veteran business owners. They have loans
ranging from microloans to $2 million or more.
Contact: The Veterans Corporation, 1800 Diagonal Road, Suite 230, Alexandria,
VA 22314; 866-283-8267; http://www.veteranscorp.org/
72) Veteran's Help For Entrepreneurship
The Office of Veterans Business Development can assist those service members
who choose to start a business. Many service members choose self-employment
for various reasons. The information they provide is very comprehensive and will
assist with all aspects of having your own business. In addition, there is a
Veteran's Handbook which also may be very helpful. To learn more, contact your
nearest SBA office: http://www.sba.gov/about-offices-list/2 or call: 800-U-ASKSBA or go to: http://www.sba.gov/content/veteran-service-disabled-veteranowned
73) Know Your Rights
A franchise or business opportunity seller must give you a detailed disclosure
document at least 10 business days before you pay any money or legally commit
yourself to a purchase. You can use these disclosures to compare a particular
business with others you may be considering or simply for information. The
disclosure document includes:
 names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least 10 previous purchasers
who live closest to you;
 a fully audited financial statement of the seller;
 background and experience of the business's key executives;
 cost of starting and maintaining the business; and
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
 the responsibilities you and the seller will have to each other once you've
invested in the opportunity.
To learn more, request the publication “Franchise and Business Opportunities”
from Consumer Response Center, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania,
NW, H-130, Washington, DC 20580; 877-FTC-HELP; http://www.ftc.gov/;
http://business.ftc.gov/selected-industries/franchises-and-business-opportunities
74) Federal Business Opportunities
Fedbizopps.gov (well, actually, https://www.fbo.gov/ ) is the government’s onestop virtual marketplace. Through this single point-of-entry commercial vendors
and government buyers are invited to post, search, monitor, and retrieve
opportunities solicited by the entire Federal contracting community. There are user
guides, search engines, news, and more to help you get your contract. Check out
Fedbizopps.gov at: https://www.fbo.gov/
75) Women Business Research
The National Women’s Business Council, which is a bi-partisan federal advisory
council, promotes initiatives and programs to support women’s business
enterprises. They conduct research, connect individual women business owners to
a larger community, and more. They did a study on different Mentoring programs,
identifying best practices and those that may be geared specifically towards
women. For more information on the Council, contact: National Women’s
Business Council, 409 Third St., SW, Suite 210, Washington, DC 20024; 202205-3850; http://www.nwbc.gov/
76) Do I Need To Get Certified?
The federal government does not require that your business be certified as a
woman-owned business, as there are not specific set-aside programs for women.
They do have a goal of giving a certain amount of government contracts to
women-owned businesses, but you can “self-certify” that your company is
woman-owned. But prime contractors who give out sub-contracting opportunities
may require an official certification. The Women’s Business Enterprise National
Council is one of several non-profits that certify a business as women-owned.
They state that this certification can be an important marketing aspect for your
company. Many corporations are striving for diversity in the procurement process.
To become certified, your business must go through a rigorous process, and there
are some fees involved. In addition, the Council offers a wealth of sourcing tools,
and a database of certified women’s businesses for use by purchasing managers.
They state that over 700 companies and government agencies rely on this
certification. For more information, contact: Women’s Business Enterprise
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
National Council, 1120 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 950, Washington, DC
20036; 202-872-5515; http://www.wbenc.org/
77) A Microenterprise Program Finder
FIELD (Microenterprise Fund for Innovation, Effectiveness, Learning and
Dissemination) has a mission to help identify, develop and disseminate best
practices for microenterprises. They have a listing of microenterprise programs
throughout the United States. Each program operates a little differently. Some
charge a fee, while others are free. Some have small microlending programs,
while others provide only business training and services. Check out the directory
to find a program that serves your needs. The Program Index button allows you to
search by your state. Many of these programs target women or low-income
entrepreneurs. Contact: The Aspen Institute, One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 700,
Washington, DC 20036; 202-736-1071; http://microtracker.org/programindex/?state=
78) Money For Women Running A Taxi Company
Actually, the money can be used by women and minorities in almost any kind of
transportation-related business. The U.S. Department of Transportation works
hard at trying to help companies succeed by helping them get contracts as well as
offering short term working capital loans at prime interest rates while working on
transportation related contracts. Businesses need to be certified as a Disadvantaged
Business Enterprises (DBE), which means a firm must be a small business owned
and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals (including
women). The Department of Transportation has a goal of 10% of all funds going
to DBEs. For more information, contact: National Information Clearinghouse,
U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business
Utilization, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE, W56-485, Washington, DC 20590;
800-532-1169; http://osdbuweb.dot.gov/
79) NY Minority Women’s Assistance
Black Women Enterprises offers free services and programs to help the minority
woman business owner. They have business plan workshops, and provide
assistance to those enterprises seeking Minority Business Enterprise/Women’s
Business Enterprise Certification. They also offer one-to-one business counseling
and a monthly program on how to do business with the federal government. Black
Women Enterprises also host meeting, conferences and special interest groups. For
more information, contact: Black Women Enterprises, 730 Fulton Ave.,
Hempstead, NY 11550; 516-485-5900; http://www.blackwomenenterprises.org/
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
80) State Procurement Assistance
Have you ever wondered where the government buys all of the products that it
works with each day? You might be surprised to learn that they buy from small
businesses just like yours that produce products such as:
 work clothing
 office supplies
 cleaning equipment
 miscellaneous vehicles
 medical supplies and equipment
Imagine what your bottom line could look like each year if you won just ONE
lucrative government contract that would provide your business with a secure
income! It might even buy you the freedom to pursue other clients that you
wouldn't have the time or money to go after otherwise. If your business performs
well and completes a government contract satisfactorily, chances are you'll have a
shot at more and maybe even bigger contracts. Contact your state Procurement
office to learn how you can get one of these great contracts. To find your office
go to: http://govengine.com/ and click on your state.
81) Small Business Offices Just For You
Offices designated as Offices of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization
(OSDBUs) provide procurement assistance to small, minority, 8(a) and women
owned businesses. Their primary function is to ensure that small and
disadvantaged businesses receive their fair share of U.S. Government contracts.
"OSDBUs" are the contacts for their respective agencies and are excellent sources
of information. There are offices in every agency and department within the
government. To find a listing of these offices go to the Federal OSDBU Directors
Interagency Council at: http://www.osdbu.gov/
82) What A Great Idea!
To help you get started with patenting your invention, the Patent and Trademark
Offices will send you a free booklet upon request called “General Information
Concerning Patents.” There are three legal elements involved in the process of
invention: the conception of the idea, diligence in working it out, and reducing it
to practice - i.e., getting a finished product that actually works. If you have a great
idea you think might work, but you need time to develop it further before it is
ready to be patented, what should you do? For answers to general questions on
patent examining policies and procedures, contact the Inventors Assistance Center
at: 800-PTO-9199 or 571-272-1000; TTY: 571-272-9950;
http://www.uspto.gov/inventors/iac/index.jsp. They will not answer legal
questions or opinions. You can view the publication General Information
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Concerning Patents at:
http://www.uspto.gov/patents/resources/general_info_concerning_patents.jsp
83) Patent Pending
These applications create an early effective filing date and the term "Patent
Pending" can be applied to the invention. There must be a written description of
the invention, any necessary drawings and the name of the inventor(s). Claims and
oath or declarations are not required. Also needed, is a cover sheet that states it is a
provisional application and a filing fee. The filing date is the date that the PTO
receives the application. This type of application cannot be filed for design
inventions. A non-provisional application must be filed within 12 months or else it
will be discarded. You can learn more by checking out the web site at:
http://www.uspto.gov/patents/resources/types/provapp.jsp or contact the Inventors
Assistance Center at: 800-786-9199.
84) The Right Way To Get A Copyright
Copyrights are filed on intellectual property. A copyright protects your right to
control the sale, use of distribution, and royalties from a creation in thought,
music, films, art, or books. It is an automatic form of protection for authors of
published and unpublished "original works of authorship." The concrete form of
expression as opposed to the subject matter is what is protected. Since a copyright
is automatic when a work is created, registration is not required for protection.
However, there are advantages to registration. If it is registered within 5 years of
publication of the work, it establishes prima facie evidence of its validity and can
be helpful in case of a court action. Generally, the work is protected for the
author's life plus 70 years after death. For more information, contact: Library of
Congress, Copyright Office, 101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC
20559-6000; 202-707-3000; http://www.loc.gov/index.html and
http://www.copyright.gov/
85) Program Helps Female Veterans Become Business Owners
V-WISE is open to all female veterans with a passion for entrepreneurship and the
desire to start their own business. Applicants may have served in any branch of the
military during any era. Participants must be able to complete the online
component of the program and be able to travel to one of the mandatory
conferences held at numerous times from spring 2011 through fall 2013. Please
apply at: http://www.whitman.syr.edu/VWISEApplication2/. This program is
funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration and administered by the
Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University. Due to the SBA funding,
the cost to the participant is minimal. The participant is responsible for a $75.00
registration fee and transportation to and from the conference. All other expenses
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
are covered, i.e. hotel, books and food. Cost assistant may be available (for the
$75.00 registration fee), so please email [email protected] for more information or
contact: Admissions Coordinator, Institute for Veterans and Military Families,
Syracuse University, 700 University Avenue, Suite 303, Syracuse, NY 132442530; 315-443-8791; http://www.whitman.syr.edu/vwise/about.asp
86) Veteran Exposition, Inc.
Veteran Exposition is a veteran owned and operated organization dedicated to
improving opportunities for U.S. Military Veteran business owners. The site aims
to create awareness and business for U.S. military veteran owned businesses so
that the public and government can locate veteran businesses. The site contains a
directory of veteran-owned businesses and information about possible discounts to
veterans. For more details, contact: Veteran Exposition, Inc., P.O. Box 05623,
Sarasota, FL 34232; 941-951-2561; http://www.vetsexpo.org/
87) Veterans Business Outreach Program
The Veterans Business Outreach Program (VBOP) is designed to provide
entrepreneurial development services such as business training, counseling and
mentoring and referrals for eligible veterans who own or are considering starting
their own business. Contact the following offices for help in your area:
 Serving California
Sacramento Veterans Resource Center
Veteran's Business Outreach Center
7270 E. Southgate Drive
Sacramento, CA 95823
916-393-8387
Fax: 916-393-8389
http://www.vietvets.org/
 Serving Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North
Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee
Veterans’ Business Outreach Center
2500 Minnesota Avenue
Lynn Haven, FL 32444
800-542-7232
850-271-1108
Fax: 850-271-1109
http://www.vboc.org/
 Serving New York State
Veterans Business Outreach Program
41 State Street
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Albany, NY 12246
877-875-VETS (8387)
http://www.nyssbdc.org/services/veterans/veterans.html
 Serving Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas
The University of Texas-Pan American
1201 W. University Drive
Edinburg, TX 78539-2999
956-292-7535
Fax: 956-292-7561
http://portal.utpa.edu/utpa_main/ce_home/bdi_home/vboc_home
88) Business Help Every Step Of The Way
Whether you are starting or growing a business, FastTrac offers programs for
every level of entrepreneurship. Programs include:
 FastTrac NewVenture: This is for new entrepreneurs who are still in the
“idea” stage and need help starting their business.
 FastTrac GrowthVenture: This is for current business owners who are
looking for strategies to grow their business.
 FastTrac TechVenture: This is for technology or science-based business
owners who need help navigating the factors that go in to starting a
business like acquiring funding and intellectual property protection.
FastTrac also offers special programs for women and veteran entrepreneurs.
FastTrac programs are delivered by a variety of affiliate organizations—non-profit
and for-profit alike—including chambers of commerce, business development
centers, local and regional economic development councils, colleges, universities,
consulting firms, and many others. FastTrac is offered throughout the U.S., so to
find a program in your local area, go to: http://fasttrac.org/program-locator.aspx
For additional information, contact FastTrac at: 816-454-4380 or 877-4509800; http://fasttrac.org/entrepreneurs/programs.aspx
89) Kickstart Your Dreams
Kickstarter claims to be "the largest funding platform for creative projects in the
world. Every week, tens of thousands of amazing people pledge millions of dollars
to projects from the worlds of music, film, art, technology, design, food,
publishing and other creative fields." A caveat is that the project must reach its
funding goal before any money is actually exchanged. For your donations to the
projects you often get product samples, tickets to the show or movie, copies of
CDs, which are all dependent upon your donation level. You cannot use
Kickstarter to fund a charity, cause, or to just pay your bills. They have guidelines
and even a Kickstarter school. If you meet your goal, there is a 5% fee charged by
Kickstarter. There are step-by-step instructions to get your project listed for you
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
to receive the funding you need to make your dreams come true.
For more information, go to: http://www.kickstarter.com/
90) Up To $5,000 For Florida Entrepreneurs
The Peer Lending Program is designed for individuals who aren't in business yet
or have been in business for less than two years. Entrepreneurial and Financial
Literacy Training are combined with peer-evaluated business loans of $1,000 to
$5,000. Peer group members make lending decisions collectively. This
collaborative method of inclusion empowers clients who might have been
previously felt marginalized or lacked the confidence to take on a leadership role.
Peer-to-peer support and networking opportunities are also provided. The Peer
Lending Program requires no credit or collateral and is available to qualified
residents of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. For more details, contact:
Partners for Self-Employment Inc., 3000 Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 215A, Miami,
FL 33137; 305-438-1407; Fax: 305-438-1411;
http://partnersforselfemployment.org/en/peer-lending. Contact your city or county
economic development office to see if similar programs are available near you.
91) Help For The Self-Employed
The National Association for the Self-Employed is one of the leading resources for
businesses. For a minimal annual fee they offer a wide range of benefits and
services to the small business owner. You get access to health, life, dental and
prescription insurance, discounts on a variety of services such as travel,
entertainment, and legal and accounting. They even have a Business Development
Grant Program. You can get quick answers to your tax and finance questions and
help with understanding your taxes. To learn more, contact: National Association
for the Self-Employed, P.O. Box 241, Annapolis Junction, MD 20701-0241; 800649-6273; http://www.nase.org/
92) Yet More Free Help For Entrepreneurs
There is a wealth of FREE help available to help you start your business. We have
come across yet another resource to help you. Entrepreneurship.org is a free,
online resource designed to help small businesses thrive. Entrepreneurship.org
features a vast array of content and resources to assist entrepreneurs, business
mentors, policy makers, academics and investors through each phase of the
entrepreneurial process. The content ranges from resources entrepreneurs need to
launch a company to policies and research that has been conducted regarding
entrepreneurship. To take advantage of this FREE help, go
to: http://www.entrepreneurship.org/
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
93) State Child Care Funding
Some states offer special funding resources for child care centers. Some examples
include Ohio and Virginia. The Community Capital Development Corporation
offers a microloan of up to $25,000 for child day care anywhere in Ohio. For more
information, contact: Community Capital Development Corporation, 900
Michigan Ave., Columbus, OH 43215; 888-756-CCDC;
http://www.ccdcorp.org/workingcapital.html; http://www.ccdcorp.org/
Virginia Child Day Care Financing provides low-interest loans to Family Home
Providers (up to $5,000) or Child Care Centers (up to $50,000). Contact: Virginia
Department of Business Assistance, 707 E. Main Street, Suite 300, Richmond, VA
23219; 866-248-8814; http://vdba.virginia.gov/vsbfa.shtml#programs
Child Care Online provides resources and links to other loan programs for Child
Care financing. Check them out at: http://www.childcare.net/grantsfinance.shtml
or contact your state Department of Economic Development which you can find
at: http://www.govengine.com/
94) Become A Non-Profit
First and foremost in establishing or creating a non-profit is filing for Federal and
state non-profit tax status. Non-profit status is not available to individuals, only to
organizations, so your group must be incorporated or exist as an association or
trust. To help you determine if your organization may qualify for tax-exempt
status, or to find out what you will need to do in order to qualify, request
Publication 557 from the local office of the Internal Revenue Service. This
publication takes you step-by-step through the filing process, and contains
instructions and checklists to help you provide all of the necessary information
required to process your application the first time around. The fee to become
exempt can be as low at $150! The IRS has even established a hotline at 877-8295500 staffed with experts on completing the forms and can help you with any
questions you may have. They can't make it any easier for you! You can also
check out any questions you may have at:
http://www.irs.ustreas.gov/charities/index.html
95) To Good To Be True
It's easy to see why ads for business opportunities appeal to consumers looking to
make extra money: They promise good pay for little effort. But, as many
consumers who have answered these ads have learned - and the Federal Trade
Commission (FTC) has found - many business opportunity promotions are nothing
but scams that take consumers' money up front and fail to deliver on the promises.
If you're a prospective business owner, what can you do to make sure this doesn't
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
happen to you? First, do your homework, including getting pre-investment
information in writing. Under the FTC Franchise Rule, most potential business
purchasers have the right to receive information about the earnings potential of a
business opportunity. Most legitimate business opportunity promoters don't
hesitate to give this information. Second, research other aspects of the business'
performance. One way to do that is to personally interview other people who have
bought into the program. “Could 'Biz Opp' Offers Be Out For Your Coffers?” is a
free publication from the Federal Trade Commission that can answer your
questions and help you ask the right questions. For more information, contact
Consumer Response Center, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania, NW,
H-130, Washington, DC 20580; 877-FTC-HELP; http://www.ftc.gov/
or http://business.ftc.gov/documents/inv02-could-biz-opp-offers-be-out-yourcoffers
96) Connect Online With Other Minority Businesses
The Minority Business Network is a free online service that provides online
methods for marketing, supporting and growing your minority-owned business.
Check them out at: http://www.mbnet.com/
97) Money For People With Disabilities To Start A Business
We cannot emphasize enough the help that is available from your state. We have
known people who have gotten $11,000 to start a business at home and $15,000 to
finish a degree because they were suffering from low self-esteem. You can
receive:










Medical examinations and treatment
Vocational evaluation, training and placement
Assistive devices
Transportation
Occupational equipment
Rehabilitation engineering
Student services
Financial assistance
Housing assistance
Home retrofitting
Your state Vocational Rehabilitation offices want to keep you a productive
member of society, and they will do what it takes to get you on your way. If you
are denied any of these services, you have several places you can turn for help.
The first stop is your state Client Assistance Program. They will help you learn
your rights and handle the appeal to get you what you need. They can take your
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
appeal process from the first stages, all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court if
necessary and it won’t cost you a penny. Here is how to find your state’s
Vocational Rehabilitation office: https://askjan.org/cgi-win/TypeQuery.exe?902
98) Free Legal Help And Information Services For The
Handicapped
If you think you've been wrongly denied benefits or discriminated against because
of a disability or handicap, the Client Assistance Program (CAP) will help you
fight for your rights when you're denied various types of disability benefits from
any disability program. They will help you directly and/or put you in contact with
the agencies that can help you. Contact your local CAP office. You can find your
state office at: http://askjan.org/cgi-win/TypeQuery.exe?039
99) Up To $500,000 To Help Start Or Grow A Business
Entrepreneurs who want to start or expand a business that brings revenue into the
community can compete for a grant through the business plan competition
available from the Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge. There are grants totally
$500,000 available and your winning business plan could get a share of that grant
money. Everyone who participates will gain a better understanding of how to
develop and follow a realistic business plan and those qualifying businesses will
win a capital funding grant. For rules and guidelines information, go
to: http://www.incubationworks.com/enterprize-challenge/. You can also contact:
West Texas A&M University Enterprise Center, 2300 N. Western, Amarillo, TX
79124; 806-374-9777. Obviously this is for businesses in the Amarillo area.
Contact your local economic development office to see what programs may be
available near you.
100) The Best Way To Get Sales For Your Business
The reason a lot of new businesses fail is because they don’t have customers or
they pay too much to get customers. Remember those Dot Com businesses in the
90s? They were paying $3 million or more for Super Bowl ads and getting only $1
million in business from it. That’s how you go out of business. Advertising can be
very risky, but our society has so much media now there are plenty of ways to get
NO RISK advertising or advertising at BIG DISCOUNTS. Advertising Does Not
Have To Cost A Lot Of Money:
http://www.lesko.com/marketing_in_the_new_bad_economy.php
101) Procurement Technical Assistance Centers
Long ago offices were established to help people get contracts from the
Department of Defense. These offices have now expanded their scope and help
businesses get federal, state, and local government contracts all for free or nominal
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
cost. The offices are operated through the Defense Logistics Agency and are
called Procurement Technical Assistance Program Centers (PTAP). To find an
office near you, go to:
http://www.dla.mil/SmallBusiness/Pages/ProcurementTechnicalAssistanceCenters
.aspx and click on your state.
ALABAMA
Alabama Procurement Technical Assistance Center Program
The University of Alabama
201 Bidgood Hall
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
Phone: 205-348-1687
Fax: 205-348-6974
Email: [email protected]
http://www.al-ptac.org
ALASKA
Procurement Technical Assistance Centers of Alaska
430 West 7th Avenue, Suite 110
Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone: 907-274-7232
Fax: 907-274-9524
http://www.ptacalaska.org/
ARIZONA
Arizona Procurement Technical Assistance Center
Glendale Community College, Bldg. I-2, Room 105
6000 W. Olive Avenue
Glendale, AZ 85302
Phone: 623-845-4700
Fax: 623-845-4705
http://www.azptac.com
ARKANSAS
Arkansas Procurement Assistance Center
University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service
127 West 5th Street
Malvern, AR 72104
Phone: 501-337-5355
Fax: 501-337-5045
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
http://www.arcommunities.org/apac.htm
CALIFORNIA
Los Angeles County Office of Small Business/PTAC
1100 N. Eastern Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90063
Phone: 323-881-3964
Fax: 213-415-8521
http://osb.lacounty.gov
Procurement Assistance Center
Riverside Community College District
152 East Sixth Street
Corona, CA 92879
Phone: 951-571-6459
Fax: 951-898-7946
www.rccpac.com
San Diego Contracting Opportunities Center – PTAC
4007 Camino del Rio South, Ste. 210
San Diego, CA 92108
Phone: 619-285-7020
Fax: 619-285-7030
http://www.ptac-sandiego.org
COLORADO
Colorado PTAC
6 S Tejon Street, Suite 850
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Phone: 719-434-3470
Fax: 719-434-3475
http://www.ColoradoPTAC.org
CONNECTICUT
Connecticut Procurement Technical Assistance Program
190 Governor Winthrop Blvd., 4th Floor
New London, CT 06320
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Phone: 860-437-4659, Ext. 208 or 888-673-2837, Ext. 208 (toll free)
Fax: 860-437-4662
http://www.ctptap.org/
DELAWARE
PTAC of Delaware
University of Delaware
One Innovation Way, Suite 301
Newark, DE 19711
Phone: 302-831-0780
Fax: 302-831-0771
www.delawarecontracts.com
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
There is no PTAC located in the District of Columbia.
FLORIDA
University of West Florida PTAC
11000 University Pkwy, Bldg. 38
Pensacola, FL 32514-7806
Phone: 850-473-7806
Fax: 850-473-7813
http://www.fptac.org
GEORGIA
Georgia Tech Procurement Assistance Center
75 - 5th Street, NW, Suite 300
Atlanta, GA 30308-1019
Phone: 770-718-3981
Fax: 770-535-5847
http://www.gtpac.org
GUAM
Guam Procurement Technical Assistance Center
University of Guam
School of Business & Public Administration, Room 116
UOG Station, Mangilao, Guam 96929
Phone: 671-735-2552
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Fax: 671-735-5717
http://www.guamptac.com
HAWAII
Hawaii Procurement Technical Assistance Center (HI-PTAC)
711 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 1430
Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: 808-596-8990, ext 1009
Fax: 808-596-8992
http://hiptac.ecenterdirect.com
IDAHO
Idaho PTAC
Idaho Department of Commerce, 2nd floor
700 W. State Street
Boise, Idaho 83720
Phone: 208-334-2470
Fax: 208-334-2631
www.ptac.idaho.gov
ILLINOIS
Illinois Procurement Technical Assistance Program
500 E. Monroe
Springfield, IL 62701
Phone: 217-557-7808
Fax: 217-524-0171
http://www.ienconnect.com\PTAC
INDIANA
Partners in Contracting Corporation
5209 Hohman Avenue
Hammond, IN 46320
Phone: 219-750-1200
Fax: 219-750-1211
http://www.piccorp.org
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
IOWA
Iowa PTAC
Iowa State University Extension - CIRAS
2701 SE Convenience Blvd., Suite 13
Ankeny, IA 50021
Phone: 515-289-0280
Fax: 515-289-0282
http://www.ciras.iastate.edu/procurement/
KANSAS/MISSOURI
Heartland PTAC
Missouri Southern State University
3950 Newman Road
Joplin, MO 64801-1512
Phone: 417-625-9538
Fax: 417-625-3090
http://www.mssu.edu/heartlandptac
KENTUCKY
Kentucky Procurement Assistance Program
Cabinet for Economic Development
Old Capitol Annex
300 West Broadway
Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: 800-838-3266 or 502-564-7140
Fax: 502-564-3256
http://www.thinkkentucky.com/KPAP
LOUISIANA
Louisiana PTAC
635 Cajundome Boulevard, Room 127
Lafayette, LA 70506-4291
Phone: 337-482-6422
Fax: 337-482-5837
http://www.la-ptac.org
Northwest Louisiana Government Procurement Center
400 Edwards Street
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Shreveport, LA 71101
Phone: 318-677-2530
Fax: 318-677-2534
http://www.nwlagpc.org/
MAINE
Maine PTAC
40 Harlow Street
Bangor, ME 04401
Phone: 207-942-6389
Fax: 207-942-3548
http://www.maineptac.org
MARYLAND
Maryland Procurement Technical Assistance Program
7100 Baltimore Avenue, Suite 402
College Park, MD 20740
Phone: 301-403-2740
Fax: 301-403-2743
http://www.mdptap.umd.edu
MASSACHUSETTS
Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network/PTAC
227 Isenberg School of Management
University of Massachusetts
121 Presidents Drive
Amherst, MA 01003-9310
Phone: 413-545-6303
Fax: 413-545-1273
http://www.msbdc.org/ptac/rfc.html
MICHIGAN
Downriver Community Conference PTAC
15100 Northline Road, Suite 135
Southgate, MI 48195
Phone: 734-362-3480
Fax: 734-281-6661
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
http://www.dccwf.org/economic_dev_ptac.php
Macomb Regional PTAC
7900 Tank Avenue
Warren, MI 48092-3936
Phone: 586-498-4122
Fax: 526-498-4165
http://www.ptacsofmichigan.org
Muskegon Area First PTAC
380 W. Western Avenue, Suite 202
Muskegon, MI 49440
Phone: 231-722-7700
Fax: 231-728-7251
www.muskegonareafirst.org/ptac
Northeast Michigan Consortium PTAC
20709 State Street
Onaway, MI 49765
Phone: 989-733-8540
Fax: 989-733-8069
http://www.nemcworks.org
PTAC of Northwest Michigan
1209 S. Garfield Street
Traverse City, MI 49686
Phone: 231-929-5036
Fax: 231-922-3737
http://www.nwm.org/ptac.asp
PTAC of Schoolcraft College
18600 Haggerty Road
Livonia, MI 48152
Phone: 734-462-4438
Fax: 734-462-4673
http://www.schoolcraft.edu/bdc/ptac.asp
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
The PTAC of South Central Michigan
One Jackson Square, Suite 1100
Jackson, MI 49201
Phone: 517-788-4680
Fax: 517-787-6100
http://www.ptac-scmi.org
Southwest Michigan Procurement Technical Assistance Center
346 West Michigan Avenue
Kalamazoo, MI 49007-3737
Phone: 269-381-2977, Ext. 3243
Fax: 269-343-0430
www.kazoochamber.com/swmiptac
Genesse Regional Chamber of Commerce
519 S. Saginaw Street, Suite 200
Flint, MI 48502
Phone: 810-600-1432
Fax: 810-600-1461
Email: ptac@thegrcc,org
www.thegrcc.org/ptac
MINNESOTA
Metropolitan Economic Development Association
250 South Second Avenue, STE 106
Minneapolis, MN 55401-2214
Phone: 612-259-6565
Fax: 612-317-1002
http://www.ptac-meda.net
MISSISSIPPI
Mississippi Procurement Technical Assistance Program
Mississippi Development Authority
501 North West Street
Jackson, MS 39201
Phone: 601-359-3448
Fax: 601-359-5290
http://www.mississippi.org/mptap
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
MISSOURI
Missouri Procurement Technical Assistance Centers
410 S. Sixth Street, 200 EBN
Columbia, MO 65211
Phone: 573-882-3597
Fax: 573-884-4297
http://www.moptac.net
Note: Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) provides procurement technical
assistance in southwest Missouri. Find contact information for MSSU on this
page under Kansas.
MONTANA
Montana Procurement Technical Assistance Center
Granite Towers
222 North 32nd Street, Suite 200
Billings, MT 59101-1948
Phone: 406-256-6871, ext 115
Fax: 406-256-6877
http://www.bigskyeda-edc.org/
NEBRASKA
Nebraska Business Development Center
6708 Pine Street, Mammel Hall, Suite 200
Omaha, NE 68106
Phone: 402-554-6253
Fax: 402-554-3473
http://ptac.unomaha.edu
NEVADA
Procurement Outreach Program
Governor's Office of Economic Development
808 W. Nye Lane
Carson City, NV 89703
Phone: 775-687-9900
Fax: 775-687-9924
http://www.diversifynevada.com/divisions/procurement_outreach/
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
NEW HAMPSHIRE
New Hampshire Procurement Technical Assistance Program
172 Pembroke Road
Concord, NH 03302-1856
Phone: 603-271-7581
Fax: 603-271-7583
http://www.nheconomy.com/sell-to-the-government
NEW JERSEY
NJIT - Procurement Technical Assistance Center
323 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Fenster Hall, Room 490
Newark, NJ 07102
Phone: 973-596-3105
Fax: 973-596-5501
http://www.njit.edu/dptac
UCEDC Procurement Technical Assistance Center
1085 Morris Avenue
Union, NJ 07083
Phone: 908-527-1166
Fax: 908-527-1207
http://www.ucedc.com
NEW MEXICO
NMSBDC/PTAP Lead Center
6401 Richards Avenue
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87508-6401
Phone: 505-428-1622
Fax: 505-428-1469
http://www.nmsbdc.org/ptap-government.html
NEW YORK
Cattaraugus County PTAC
303 Court Street
Little Valley, NY 14755
Phone: 716-938-2331
Fax: 716-938-2779
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
http://www.ccptac.org
LaGuardia Community College Procurement Technical Assistance Center
30-20 Thomson Avenue, Room B309
Long Island City, NY 11101
Phone: 718-482-5289
Fax: 718-482-5176
http://www.laguardia.edu/ptac/
New York City Department of Small Business PTAC
110 William Street, 7th Floor
New York, NY 10038
Phone: 212-513-6444
Fax: 212-618-8899
http://www.nyc.gov/sbs
North Country PTAC
1241 Coffeen Street
Watertown, NY 13601
Phone: 315-788-4400
Fax: 315-788-3369
http://www.northcountryptac.com
Monroe County Finger Lakes PTAC
50 West Main Street, Suite 8100
Rochester, NY 14614
Phone: 585-753-2015 / 2017
Fax: 585-753-2028
http://www.MonroeCountyFingerLakesPTAC.org
Rockland Economic Development Corporation PTAC
Two Blue Hill Plaza, 3rd Floor
Pearl River, NY 10965-1575
Phone: 845-735-7040
Fax: 845-735-5736
www.redc.org/new/index.php?/site/ptac
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
SoBRO PTAC
555 Bergen Avenue, 3rd Floor
Bronx, NY 10455
Phone: 718-732-7540
Fax: 718-292-6645
http://www.sobro.org
NORTH CAROLINA
North Carolina PTAC
5 West Hargett Street, Suite 600
Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: 828-345-1115
Fax: 828-326-9117
www.nc-ptac.org
NORTH DAKOTA
There is no PTAC located in North Dakota.
OHIO
Procurement Technical Assistance Centers of Ohio
Ohio Department of Development
77 South High Street
Columbus, OH 43216-1001
Phone: 614-644-1637 or 800-848-1300
Fax: 614-466-4172
http://www.odod.state.oh.us/DMBA/ptac.htm
Southern Ohio Procurement Outreach Center
216 Collins Avenue
South Point, OH 45680
Phone: 740-377-4550
Fax: 740-377-2091
http://www.sopoc.org
OKLAHOMA
Oklahoma Bid Assistance Network
1500 West Seventh Avenue
Stillwater, OK 74074
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Phone: 405-612-7386 or 405-743-5571
Fax: 405-743-6821
http://www.okbid.org
OREGON
The Government Contract Assistance Program
1144 Gateway Loop Suite 203
Springfield, OR 97477
Phone: 541-736-1088 or 800-497-7551
Fax: 541-736-1090
http://www.gcap.org
PENNSYLVANIA
Government Agency Coordination Office
California University of Pennsylvania
250 University Avenue, Box 20
California, PA 15419
Phone: 724-938-5881
Fax: 724-938-4575
www.calu.edu/business-community
IUP Government Contracting Assistance Program
650 South 13th Street, Robertshaw Bldg Rm 5
Indiana, PA 15705-1087
Phone: 724-357-7824
Fax: 724-357-3082
http://www.iup.edu/ptac
Johnstown Area Regional Industries PTAC
245 Market Street, Suite 200
Johnstown, PA 15901
Phone: 814-535-8675
Fax: 814-535-8677
http://jari.com/jari/services_procurement.html
NEPA Alliance PTAC
1151 Oak Street
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Pittston, PA 18640
Phone: 570-655-5581, Ext. 244
Fax: 570-654-5137
http://www.nepa-alliance.org/ptac/index.htm
Northwest Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission
395 Seneca Street
Oil City, PA 16301
Phone: 814-677-4800, Ext. 102
Fax: 814-677-7663
http://www.nwcommission.org/gov.html
SEDA Council of Governments
201 Furnace Road
Lewisburg, PA 17837
Phone: 570-524-4491
Fax: 570-524-9190
http://www.seda-cog.org/ptac
Southeast Pennsylvania Procurement Technical Assistance Centers
3819-33 Chestnut Street, Suite 325
Philadelphia, PA 19104-3238
Phone: 215-746-6472
Fax: 215-573-2135
http://www.pasbdc.org/government
The Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Commission PTAC
3 Sheraton Drive
Altoona, PA 16601-9343
Phone: 814-949-6528
Fax: 814-949-6505
http://www.sapdc.org/HelpingBusinesses/HowToGetGovernmentContracts.aspx
PUERTO RICO
Puerto Rico Federal Contracting Center
355 F.D. Roosevelt Avenue
Hato Rey, PR 00914
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Phone: 787-758-4747, Ext. 2234
Fax: 787-751-6239
www.federalcontractingpr.com
RHODE ISLAND
Rhode Island Procurement Technical Assistance Center
315 Iron Horse Way, Suite 101
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401-278-9100
Fax: 401-273-8270
http://www.riptac.org
SOUTH CAROLINA
SC SBDC/PTAC
USC Technology Incubator
1225 Laurel Street
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-777-7877
Fax: 803-777-4403
www.scsbdc.com/ptac.php
SOUTH DAKOTA
South Dakota Procurement Technical Assistance Center
414 East Clark Street
Vermillion, SD 57069-2390
Phone: 605-367-5252
Phone: 605-367-5755
http://www.usd.edu/ptac
TENNESSEE
University of Tennessee
Center for Industrial Services
193 Polk Avenue, Suite C
Nashville, TN 37210
Phone: 615-532-8885
Fax: 615-532-4937
http://www.ptac.tennessee.edu
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
TEXAS
Angelina College Procurement Assistance Center
3500 South First Street
Lufkin, TX 75901-7328
Phone: 936-633-5432
Fax: 936-633-5478
http://www.acpactx.org
Contract Opportunities Center
9050 Viscount, Bldg. B, Rm. 545
El Paso, TX 79925
Phone: 915-831-7748
Fax: 915-831-7755
http://www.elpasococ.org
Del Mar College PTAC
3209 S. Staples Street
Corpus Christi, TX 78404-3897
Phone: 361-698-1025
Fax: 361-698-1024
http://dmc122011.delmar.edu/sbdc/ptac.html
Rio South Texas Regional PTAC
1407 E. Freddy Gonzalez Drive, Room 1.200
Edinburg, TX 78539
Phone: 956-665-8931
Fax: 956-665-7561
www.utpa.edu/ptac
Texas Tech University Procurement Assistance Center
2579 S Loop 289, Suite 114
Lubbock, TX 79423
Phone: 806-745-3973
Fax: 806-745-6207
http://www.nwtpac.org
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
University of Houston Procurement Technical Assistance Center
2302 Fannin, Suite 200
Houston, TX 77002
Phone: 713-752-8466
Fax: 713-756-1515
www.ptac.uh.edu
University of Texas at Arlington
Cross Timbers Procurement Center
7300 Jack Newell Blvd. S.
Fort Worth, TX 76118
Phone: 817-272-5978
Fax: 817-272-5992
http://www.ctpc-texas.org
West Texas Contract Procurement Center
701 South Taylor, STE 118
Amarillo, TX 79101
Phone: 806-372-5151
Fax: 806-372-5261
www.contractprocurementcenter.com
UTAH
Governor's Office of Economic Development
60 East South Temple, Third Floor
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Phone: 801-538-8733
Fax: 801-538-8888
http://business.utah.gov/PTAC
VERMONT
Vermont Procurement Technical Assistance Center
One National Life Drive
Montpelier, VT 05620
Phone: 802-828-5240
Fax: 802-828-3258
http://economicdevelopment.vermont.gov/vtptac
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
VIRGINIA
Crater Procurement Assistance Center
1964 Wakefield Street
Petersburg, VA 23805
Phone: 804-861-1667
Fax: 804-732-8972
http://www.craterptac.org
Virginia Procurement Technical Assistance Program
George Mason University
Mason Enterprise Center
4031 University Drive, Suite 200
Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: 703-277-7757
Fax: 703-352-8195
http://www.vaptap.org
Southwest Virginia Community College PTAC
724 Community College Road
Cedar Bluff, Virginia 24609
Phone: 276-964-7334
Fax: 276-964-7361
http://ptac.sw.edu
WASHINGTON
Washington PTAC
665 Woodland Square Loop SE, Suite 201
Lacey, WA 98503
Phone: 360-754-6320
Fax: 360-407-3980
http://www.washingtonptac.org
WEST VIRGINIA
Regional Contracting Assistance Center, Inc.
1116 Smith Street Suite 202
Charleston, WV 25301-1314
Phone: 304-344-2546, Ext. 4
Fax: 304-344-2574
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
http://www.rcacwv.com
WISCONSIN
Business Procurement Assistance Center
302 South Gammon Road
Madison, WI 53717
Phone: 608-243-4490
Fax: 608-243-7906
http://madisoncollege.org/bpac
Wisconsin Procurement Institute
10437 Innovation Drive, Suite 228
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Phone: 414-270-3600
Fax: 414-270-3610
www.wispro.org
WYOMING
Wyoming PTAC
601 Broadway, Suite C
Thermopolis, WY 82443
Phone: 307-234-3203, Toll free: 866-253-3300
Fax: 307-577-7014
http://www.wyomingentrepreneur.biz/
102) State Lead Small Business Development Centers
Have you ever wished you could call a great lawyer for legal advice and have
them do the work for free? Have you ever dreamed about calling a great financial
consultant for advice on a money matter and get your answer for free? Have you
ever worried about how in the world you would pay for a PR agency to promote
your store so everyone would know how great you are? Have you ever wished you
didn’t have to pay to hire a management consultant to show you the secrets of how
to double your sales in one year? You can get the answer to all these questions by
knowing about the government’s best kept secret called the Small Business
Development Centers. There are over 1,000 of these offices around the country
that will give you all these services and more for free or for very little cost. You
don’t even have to know how to spell entrepreneur and they will sit down with
you and can help with any business problem you have. Don’t pay for something
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
when you can get it FOR FREE. Find an office near you by contacting 800-8ASK-SBA or go to: http://www.sba.gov/about-offices-list/2.
Alabama SBDC
The University of Alabama
500 Colonial Drive
Room 201, Bidgood Hall
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
Phone: 205-348-1582
Fax: 205-348-6974
http://www.asbdc.org
Alaska SBDC
University of Alaska- Anchorage
430 West Seventh Avenue, Suite 110
Anchorage, AK 99501-3550
Phone: 907-274 -7232
Fax: 907-274-9524
http://aksbdc.org/
American Samoa SBDC
American Samoa Community College
P.O. Box 2609
Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799
Phone: 684-699-4830
Fax: 684-699-8636
http://www.as-sbdc.org
Arizona SBDC
Maricopa County Community College
2411 West 14th Street, Suite 114
Tempe, AZ 85281
Phone: 480-731-8720
Fax: 480-731-8729
http://www.azsbdc.net/
Arkansas SBDC
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
2801 South University Avenue, Room 260
Little Rock, AR 72204
Phone: 501-683-7700
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Fax: 501-683-7720
http://asbdc.ualr.edu
California - Santa Ana SBDC
Orange County SBDC
2323 N. Broadway, Suite 201
Santa Ana, CA 92706
Phone: 714-564-5200
Fax: 714-647-1168
http://www.ocsbdc.com/
California - San Diego SBDC
Southwestern Community College District
900 Otay Lakes Road, Bldg. 1681
Chula Vista, CA 91910-7299
Phone: 619-482-6393
Fax: 619-216-6703
http://www.sbditc.org
California - Fresno SBDC
UC Merced Lead Center
University of California- Merced
550 East Shaw, Suite 100
Fresno, CA 93710-7702
Phone: 559-241-7406
Fax: 559-241-7422
http://sbdc.ucmerced.edu
California - Sacramento SBDC
California State University- Chico
35 Main Street, Room 203
Chico, CA 95929-0765
Phone: 530-898-5443
Fax: 530-898-4734
http://www.necsbdc.org
California - San Francisco
SBDC Northern California
Humboldt State University Office of Economic Development
1 Harpst Street
Arcata, CA 95521
Phone: 707-826-3919
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Fax: 707-829-3912
http://www.norcalsbdc.org
California - Los Angeles Region SBDC
Long Beach Community College District
Office of Economic & Resource Development
4900 E. Conant St., Bldg. 2, Suite 108
Long Beach, CA 90808
Phone: 562-938-5020
Fax: 562-938-5030
http://smallbizla.org/
Colorado SBDC
Office of Economic Development
1625 Broadway, Suite 2700
Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 303-892-3864
Fax: 303-892-3848
http://www.coloradosbdc.org
Connecticut SBDC
University of Central Connecticut
185 Main Street
New Britain, CT 06051
Phone: 860-832-0650
Fax: 860-832-0656
http://www.ctsbdc.org/
Delaware SBDC
Delaware Technology Park
1 Innovation Way, Suite 301
Newark, DE 19711
Phone: 302-831-0770
http://www.delawaresbdc.org
District of Columbia SBDC
Howard University School of Business
2600 6th Street, NW Room 128
Washington, DC 20059
Phone: 202-806-1550
Fax: 202-806-1777
http://www.dcsbdc.org/
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Florida SBDC
University of West Florida
Office of Economic Development & Engagement
11000 University Pkwy, Bldg 38
Pensacola, FL 32514-5750
Phone: 850-473-7800
Fax: 850-473-7813
http://www.floridasbdc.com
Georgia SBDC
University of Georgia
1180 East Broad Street
Athens, GA 30602-5412
Phone: 706-542-2762
Fax: 706-542-7935
http://www.georgiasbdc.org
Hawaii SBDC
University of Hawaii- Hilo
308 Kamehameha Avenue, Suite 201
Hilo, HI 96720-2960
Phone: 808-974-7515
Fax: 808-974-7683
http://www.hawaii-sbdc.org
Idaho SBDC
Boise State University
1910 University Drive
Boise, ID 83725-1655
Phone: 208-426-1640
Fax: 208-426-3877
http://www.idahosbdc.org
Illinois SBDC
Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
620 East Adams Street, 4th Floor
Springfield, IL 62701-1615
Phone: 217-524-5700
Fax: 217-524-0171
http://www.ildceo.net/dceo/Bureaus/Entrepreneurship+and+Small+Business/sbdc.
htm
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Indiana SBDC
Indiana Economic Development Corporation
One North Capitol, Suite
900 Indianapolis, IN 46204-2043
Phone: 317-234-2082
Fax: 317-232-4146
http://isbdc.org/
Iowa SBDC
Iowa State University
2321 North Loop Dr., Suite 202
Ames, IA 50010-8218
Phone: 515-294-2030
Fax: 515-294-6522
http://www.iowasbdc.org
Kansas SBDC
Fort Hays State University
214 SW Sixth Street, Suite 301
Topeka, KS 66603
Phone: 785-296-6514
Fax: 785-291-3261
http://www.kansas.gov/ksbdc/
Kentucky SBDC
University of Kentucky
One Quality Street, Suite 635
Lexington, KY 40507
Phone: 859-257-7668
Fax: 859-323-1907
http://www.ksbdc.org
Louisiana SBDC
University of Louisiana- Monroe
College of Business Administration
700 University Avenue
Monroe, LA 71209-6435
Phone: 318-342-1224
Fax: 318-342-5510
http://www.lsbdc.org
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Maine SBDC
University of Southern Maine
96 Falmouth Street
P.O. Box 9300
Portland, ME 04103-9300
Phone: 207-780-4420
Fax: 207-780-4810
http://www.mainesbdc.org
Maryland SBDC
University of Maryland
7100 Baltimore Avenue, Suite 401
College Park, MD 20740-3640
Phone: 301-403-8300 x 15
Fax: 301-403-8303
http://www.mdsbdc.umd.edu
Massachusetts SBDC
University of Massachusetts
227 Isenberg School of Management
121 President's Drive
Amherst, MA 01003-9310
Phone: 413-545-6301
Fax: 413-545-1273
http://www.msbdc.org/
Michigan SBTDC
Grand Valley State University
510 West Fulton Avenue
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Phone: 616-331-7480
Fax: 616-331-7485
http://www.gvsu.edu/misbtdc/
Minnesota SBDC
Minnesota Small Business Development Center
1st National Bank Building
332 Minnesota Street, Suite E200
St. Paul, MN 55101-1351
Phone: 651-297-5770
Fax: 651-296-5287
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
http://www.positivelyminnesota.com/Business/Get_Help_from_Our_Experts/Smal
l_Business_Development_Centers/
Mississippi SBDC
University of Mississippi
P.O. Box 1848
122 Jeanette Phillips Dr.
University, MS 38677-1848
Phone: 662-915-5001
Fax: 662-915-5650
http://www.mssbdc.org
Missouri SBDC
University of Missouri
410 S. Sixth St.
200 Engineering
North Columbia, MO 65211
Phone: 573-884-1555
Fax: 573-884-4297
http://www.missouribusiness.net/sbdc/
Montana SBDC
Department of Commerce
301 South Park Avenue, Room 116
P.O. Box 200505
Helena, MT 59601
Phone: 406-841-2747
Fax: 406-841-2728
http://sbdc.mt.gov/
Nebraska SBDC
Nebraska Business Development Center
College of Business Administration
Mammel Hall, Suite 200
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, NE 68182-0248
Phone: 402-554-2521
Fax: 402-554-3473
http://nbdc.unomaha.edu
Nevada SBDC
University of Nevada- Reno
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Reno College of Business
Ansari Business Building, Room 411
Reno, NV 89557-0100
Phone: 775-784-1717
Fax: 775-784-4337
http://www.nsbdc.org
New Hampshire SBDC
University of New Hampshire
Mittemore School of Business and Economics
UNH 110 McConnell Hall
Durham, NH 03824-3593
Phone: 603-862-2200
Fax: 603-862-4876
http://www.nhsbdc.org
New Jersey SBDC
1 Washington Park, Suite 360
Newark, NJ 07102
Phone: 973-353-1927
Fax: 973-353-1110
http://www.njsbdc.com/
New Mexico SBDC
Santa Fe Community College
6401 Richards Avenue
Santa Fe, NM 87508-4887
Phone: 505-428-1362
Fax: 505-428-1469
http://www.nmsbdc.org
New York SBDC
State University of New York
22 Corporate Woods, 3rd Floor
Albany, NY 12246-0001
Phone: 518-443-5398
Fax: 518-443-5275
http://www.nyssbdc.org
North Carolina SBDTC
University of North Carolina
5 West Hargett Street, Suite 600
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Raleigh, NC 27601-1348
Phone: 919-715-7272
Fax: 919-715-7777
http://www.sbtdc.org
North Dakota SBDC
University of North Dakota
1600 E. Century Avenue, Suite 2
Bismarck, ND 58501
Phone: 701-328-5375
Fax: 701-328-5381
http://www.ndsbdc.org
Ohio SBDC
Ohio Department of Development
128th Floor P.O. Box 1001
Columbus, OH 43216-1001
Phone: 614-466-2711
Fax: 614-466-0829
http://www.entrepreneurohio.org/
Oklahoma SBDC
301 W University Blvd.
Durant, OK 74701
Phone: 580-745-2877
Fax: 580-745-7471
http://www.osbdc.org
Oregon SBDC
Lane Community College
99 West Tenth Avenue, Suite 390
Eugene, OR 97401-3015
Phone: 541-463-5250
Fax: 541-345-6006
http://www.bizcenter.org
Guam SBDC
University of Guam Pacific Islands SBDC
P.O. Box 5014 - U.O.G. Station
Mangilao, GU 96923
Phone: 671-735-2590
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Fax: 671-734-2002
http://www.pacificsbdc.com
Pennsylvania SBDC
Pennsylvania Small Business Development Centers
3819-33 Chestnut Street, Suite 325
Philadelphia, PA 19104-3238
Phone: 215-898-1219
Fax: 215-573-2135
http://pasbdc.org
Puerto Rico SBDC
Inter-American University of Puerto Rico
Union Plaza Building, Suite 1000
416 Ponce de Leon Avenue, 10th Floor
Hato Rey, PR 00918
Phone: 787-763-6811
Fax: 787-763-6875
http://www.prsbtdc.org/
Rhode Island SBDC
Johnson & Wales University
RI Small Business Development Center
Richmond Building, 4th Floor
270 Weybosset Street
Providence, RI 02903
Phone: 401-598-2702
Fax: 401-598-2722
http://www.risbdc.org
South Carolina SBDC
The University of South Carolina
at USC Technology Incubator
1225 Laurel Street, 3rd Floor
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-777-5118
Fax: 803-545-0079
http://www.uscbiz.net/sbdc-index.htm
South Dakota SBDC
University of South Dakota
Beacom School of Business
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
414 East Clark Street, Patterson Hall
Vermillion, SD 57069
Phone: 605-677-5103
Fax: 605-677-5427
http://www.usd.edu/business/south-dakota-small-business-development-center/
Tennessee SBDC
Middle Tennessee State University
3050 Medical Center Parkway
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Phone: 615-898-2745
Fax: 615-217-8548
http://www.tsbdc.org
Texas-Houston SBDC
University of Houston
2302 Fannin, Suite 200
Houston, TX 77002
Phone: 713-752-8444
Fax: 713-756-1500
http://sbdcnetwork.uh.edu
Texas-North SBDC
Dallas County Community College
1402 Corinth Street, Suite 2111
Dallas, TX 75215
Phone: 214-860-5831
Fax: 214-860-5813
http://www.ntsbdc.org
Texas-NW SBDC
Texas Tech University
2579 South Loop 289, Suite 114
Lubbock, TX 79423-1637
Phone: 806-745-3973
Fax: 806-745-6207
http://www.nwtsbdc.org
Texas-South-West Texas Border SBDC Network
University of Texas- San Antonio
501 West César E. Chávez Boulevard
San Antonio, TX 78207-4415
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Phone: 210-458-2450
Fax: 210-458-2464
http://www.txsbdc.org
Utah SBDC
Salt Lake Community College
Miller Business Resource Center
SLCC Miller Campus
9750 South 300 West
Sandy, Utah 84070
Phone: 801-957-5200
Fax: 801-957-2007
http://www.utahsbdc.org/
Vermont SBDC
Vermont Technical College
PO Box 188, 1 Main Street
Randolph Center, VT 05061-0188
Phone: 802-728-9101
Fax: 802-728-3026
http://www.vtsbdc.org
Virgin Islands SBDC
University of the Virgin Islands
8000 Nisky Center, Suite 720 Charlotte Amalie
St. Thomas, VI 00802-5804
Phone: 340-776-3206
Fax: 340-775-3756
http://sbdcvi.org
Virginia SBDC
George Mason University
Mason Enterprise Center
4031 University Drive, Suite 200
Fairfax, VA 22030-3409
Phone: 703-277-7747
Fax: 703-352-8518
http://www.virginiasbdc.org
Washington SBDC
Washington State University
534 E. Spokane Falls Blvd.
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
P.O. Box 1495
Spokane, WA 99210-1495
Phone: 509-358-7765
Fax: 509-358-7764
http://www.wsbdc.org
West Virginia SBDC
West Virginia Development Office
State Capitol Complex Bldg. 6, Room 652
1900 Kanawha Blvd E.
Charleston, WV 25305
Phone: 304-558-2960
Fax: 304-558-0127
http://wvsbdc.wvcommerce.org/default.aspx
Wisconsin SBDC
University of Wisconsin
432 North Lake Street, Room 423
Madison, WI 53706
Phone: 608-263-7794
Fax: 608-263-7830
http://www.wisconsinsbdc.org
Wyoming SBDC
University of Wyoming
1000 E. University, Dept. 3922
Laramie, WY 82979
Phone: 307-766-3505
Fax: 307-766-3406
http://www.wyomingentrepreneur.biz/
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
25 Ways Uncle’s Sam Un-Balanced
Budget Can Balance Your Budget
Stop looking under the cushions in your sofa for money to help you make it through tough times.
Instead, start looking inside government agencies. That’s where the real money is. Here are just
a few of Uncle Sam’s Best.
1) Help Paying Your Student Loans (Income Limit: None)
People with student loans now have a number of options in handling their debt during
tough economic times, including:




Decrease Payments by Extending the Life of the Loan
Reduce Payments Because of Reduced Income
Temporarily Stop Making Payments Until You Improve Your Finances, and
You May Even Have Some of the Loan Forgiven
http://studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/repaying.jsp
2) Free Or Cheap Health Insurance For Kids (Income Limit: $45,000 /family
of 4)
Children up to 19 years old may be eligible for health coverage under the Children's
Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Covers U.S. children and eligible immigrants.
http://www.insurekidsnow.gov/
http://www.insurekidsnow.gov/qa/index.html
3) Free Phones And Cell Phones (Income Limit: $30,173 /family of 4)
Free and discounted installation and monthly services are available to people with certain
incomes under the Lifeline and Link Up Program.
http://lifeline.gov/lifeline_Consumers.html
4) $6,000 To Pay For Groceries (Income Limit: $28,668 / family of 4)
Estimates show that there are over 7 million working and non-working people who are
unaware they are eligible to receive assistance under the Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program. http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/applicant_recipients/apply.htm
5) Up To $8,000 To Train For A New Job (Income Limit: None)
Local One-Stop Career Centers offer money to train for a new job, free resume writing
assistance, free computer use and in some states financial assistance to become selfemployed. http://servicelocator.org/
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
6) $2,000 From Missing Deposits or Unclaimed Money (Income Limit:
None)
It does not take much time to see if you have unclaimed money waiting in your name
from old utility deposits, life insurance policies, travelers checks, paid up insurance
policies, or even savings and checking accounts. Over $34 Billion is waiting in state
offices for people to claim. http://www.unclaimed.org/
7) Free/Cheap Health Care at 8,000 Centers (Income Limit: Varies)
These government funded health care clinics offer overall health care, dental and
substance abuse services. Search your zip code http://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/widgets/
8) Free Prescription Drugs (Income Limit: Varies By Company)
Drug companies offer free prescriptions to those who cannot afford to pay. 888-PPANOW; http://www.pparx.org/
9) Cash, Child Care, Transportation, Health Care & Job Training
(Income Limits: Very Low)
The Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) offers a full range of services to
help families with children become self-reliant. Find your state program
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofa/states/stlinks.htm
10) Free Or Cheap Care For Seniors (Income Limit: Varies)
The Eldercare Locator will identify community based organizations that offer health care,
financial assistance, legal help, and housing to seniors. Call 800- 677-1116,
http://www.eldercare.gov/Eldercare.NET/Public/Index.aspx
11) $1,156 In Extra Spending Money For Seniors (Income Limit: up to
$12,576 /yr for a single and $16,872 /yr for a couple):
Every year millions of seniors fail to apply for little-know programs called Qualified
Medicare Beneficiaries Plan or Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiaries Plan.
Contact Medicare Hotline at 800-MEDICARE or online at http://www.medicare.gov/;
http://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/10126.pdf;
http://www.medicare.gov/navigation/medicare-basics/medical-and-drug-costs.aspx
12) Free Help Paying Your Bills, Rent, or Mortgage (Income Limit: None)
Counselors supported by government grants will assist you with your finances, work with
your creditors, landlord or bank. Make an appointment with a local counselor.
http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/i_want_to/talk_to_a_housing_counselor
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
13) Free Treatment By The Best Doctors In The World (Income Limit:
None)
Government money is currently financing over 113,486 clinical trials where doctors
study and treat patients for research purposes. See if there is a trial for your condition.
http://clinicaltrials.gov/
14) An Extra $5,871 For Your Family (Income Limit:
$48,362)
You don’t even have to have paid any taxes in order for the IRS to send you a refund
under the Earned Income Tax Credit. You need publication 596 by calling 800-8293676; or online at http://www.irs.gov/ or
http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=96406,00.html
15) $6,500 To Weatherize Your Home (Income Limit: $44,700 /family of 4)
Homeowners and renters can apply to have storm windows, insulation and even weatherstripping installed which can help reduce your heating and cooling bills under the
Weatherization Assistance Program. http://www1.eere.energy.gov/wip/wap.html
16) $$$ To Pay Heating And Cooling Bills (Income Limit: up to $33,525 for a
family of 4):
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) serves families by offering
heating and cooling subsidies, energy crisis intervention to assist in weather-related and
fuel supply shortages, and household energy-related emergencies, such as utility shutoffs.
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs/liheap/grantees/states.html
17) Get Free Child Support Enforcement (Income Limit: None)
The Office of Child Support Enforcement will fight for you to establish paternity, set up a
court order for child support, track down a missing parent, collect child support, and get
the courts to adjust child support orders.
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/extinf.html
18) $568 Million In Child Support Money Waiting For You To
Claim (Income Limit: None)
The government collects child support money from tax refunds, employers, sale of
property etc. but cannot always find the custodial parent to whom the money is owed.
Check if your money is sitting in your state child support agency.
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/extinf.html
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
19) 350 Colleges Where Seniors Can Attend For Free (Income Limit:
None)
At age 60 you may live 30 more years and have time to start a new career. Community
colleges and universities supported by state governments offer courses for free and low
cost. Locate these colleges in your area. http://govengine.com/
20) $400/wk When You're Out of Work (Income Limit: None)
You can qualify for unemployment even if you made a fortune at your previous job. The
most recent data available shows that 10,851 people making over $500,000 a year also
collected over $71 million in unemployment money.
http://www.servicelocator.org/OWSLinks.asp
21) $230/Mo Commuting Money
(Income Limit: None)
The Qualified Transportation Fringe Benefit or Transit Benefit Program allows your
employer to give you $230 a month to pay for going to work in a bus, van, metro or even
for parking. Get IRS Publication 535, Business Expenses or IRS Publication 15-B and
show your boss the section entitled "Qualified Transportation Fringe". 800-TAXFORM or http://www.irs.gov/
22) Free Vet Services For Fido and Oscar
(Income Limit: Varies)
Many veterinary college teaching hospitals offer free services, drugs, treatments to those
in need and even answer questions over the telephone. See if there is a veterinary college
near you.
http://www.avma.org/education/cvea/colleges_accredited/colleges_accredited.asp
23) $1200 Food Vouchers For Women & Children (Income Limit: $41,348
family of 4)
The Women, Infant and Children (WIC) Program provides women, infants, and children
up to age 5 nutritious foods to supplement diets, information on healthy eating, and
referrals to health care. http://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/Contacts/tollfreenumbers.htm
24) $10,000 For Down Payments and Closing Costs (Income Limit:
$56,000+)
The American Dream Down Payment Initiative covers down payment, closing costs, and
rehabilitation assistance for first-time homebuyers.
http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/affordablehousing/programs/home/contacts/
25) Free Help To Start a Business, Write A Plan, Protect Your
Invention (Income Limit: None)
Don’t use Google to look for help with your ideas because there are thousands of experts
that receive government grants to perform this work for free. Find a local office at
http://www.asbdc-us.org/
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)
Look for Other eBooks by Matthew Lesko
101 Of The Best Government Grants In America: You Won’t Believe What Uncle Sam Is Giving
Away
101 Of The Best Government Grants To Pay For College Without Going Into Debt
101 Of The Best Government Grants For Job Seekers
- 1-800-Uncle-Sam (800-862-5372)

101 - Free Government Money Vault

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