Computer Business Owners Can Profit from 4 U.S. Government Programs

If you’re starting a computer business, don’t overlook the many resources available from U.S. government programs. 

Here are some good ideas from the American Express OPEN Forum website—also a good resource for new computer business owners. 

These are programs primarily for U.S. readers. However, if you’re located outside the U.S., look into what your government offerings are, as many other nation’s governments do invest considerable resources to promote the development of small businesses.

Free Knowledge and Advice

There is all kinds of free information out there for new businesses. Consider two primary areas:

• Federal government sources – A great resource to start with is the Small Business Administration (SBA.gov). Also check to see if you have a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in your region. They provide high-quality advice, mostly free, and the SBA also has sponsored loan programs you may want to look into. Also visit SCORE.org, the nonprofit that partners with the SBA.

• State and local sources – Don’t forget to look into local sources for help with your computer business. New York, for example, provides a program called “NYC Business Solutions” that helps new companies with business plans, marketing, and accounting issues.

Help for Minority- or Women-Owned Businesses

Many government agencies that provide small business-related assistance also have special programs, specifically for minority-owned businesses and women-owned businesses. These offerings include:

• Federal 8A business development – If you’re looking for federal contracts or work for major corporations, getting 8A-certified can provide an advantage in winning those contracts (see SBA.gov).

• Local programs – Most local government entities have programs to assist companies owned by groups traditionally disadvantaged for government contracts. Ask your local municipalities for the economic development agencies that typically administer those programs. If you’re coming up empty, try asking your local SBA office, local SBDC, local SCORE chapter, or local chamber of commerce. 

Give your computer business every advantage it can have by availing yourself of these free government resources. 

If you’ve received some useful assistance from a government program, tell us about it in the Comments section below.

And to follow-through on the tips introduced in this short article, be sure to download your free copy of the special report on How to Start a Computer Consulting Business: 6 Proven Ways to Build Your Initial Client Base.

Creative Commons Image Source: flickr marc falardeau