Small Business Development Centers
Free, local advising and training through the U.S. SBA's nationwide SBDC network.
Resources
Start your story — with one small, helpful step.
A free starter worksheet, an invitation to deeper support, and a curated library of programs and tools to help you begin and stabilize a business.
Free Starter Resource
Start Your Business Story
Not sure where to begin? Download the Business Idea Starter Worksheet to clarify your idea, who you want to serve, and the first step you can take.
Tell us a little about you and we'll send the worksheet straight to your inbox.
Go deeper
Want deeper support?
Join the Be Your Story interest list to receive updates about mentorship, financial literacy resources, and the next Business Roadmap Pilot.
The pilot worksheets aren't public — they're emailed to women who register, apply, or are accepted into the pilot.
- Mentorship matched to your stage
- Financial literacy and credit-building tools
- Step-by-step Business Roadmap Pilot worksheets
- Warm intros to local programs and grants
More guidance to explore
Local entrepreneur programs
Community-based business education, often offered through libraries, nonprofits, and chambers of commerce.
Grant opportunities
Federal, state, and private foundation grants for women- and minority-owned businesses.
Legal clinics
Pro bono and low-cost legal help for entity formation, contracts, and compliance.
Financial education
Free financial coaching, credit-building, and money management programs in your community.
Banking and credit
Community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and credit unions that work with new entrepreneurs.
Need help finding the right resource?
Apply for support and we'll help you navigate it together.
Apply for Support