Best Small Business Resources in the Dover Area

Description

The DCED is a Delaware State University program that offers one-on-one technical advising on a variety of business topics, all for free and unlimited. Some level of analysis is also offered, dealing with business problem research and business plan development alongside other areas of expertise. This service is offered to any entrepreneur or small business in the area.

Description

The greatest strength of the SBDC is their free, confidential, 1-on-1 business mentoring for anyone who seeks it. Sometimes in order to be considered for mentoring from one of their professional business advisors, you may have to attend a class/workshop or at least present your business plan. SBDC's are located all throughout the state and you should use the SBDC closest to your location if possible, but you can often transfer to a different location if they do not fit your needs.

Description

Delaware’s Department of Small Business, Development, and Tourism serves as a friendly point of contact for entrepreneurs seeking to launch a new business. They provide a combination of consulting and mentoring to help fledgling entrepreneurs and then recommend external resources where their expertise ends. The assistance they provide is extensively tailored to each project and can range from direct mentoring and assistance to indirect referrals to organizations better suited to help.

Description

The Entrepreneurship/Small Business Center at the Dover Public Library features an “Inspiration Space” for coworking and meetings. The center also hosts weekly “Entrepreneurship Thursdays” which bring in local experts to speak about small business topics.

Restrictions

A library card is necessary to access any of the computers, either in-person or remotely. A library card is also necessary to access the databases.

Description

SCORE (Service Corp of Retired Executives) is a leading, nation-wide organization that has assisted millions of entrepreneurs over its 50+ years of operation. SCORE is a resource partner of the SBA that offers access to a network of experienced business leaders who donate time to mentor entrepreneurs and small business owners. They also host free or inexpensive workshops online and at 300 local chapters around the United States. Mentoring can be conducted either in person or remotely and is always free and confidential, no matter how often you take advantage of this service.

Description

This kitchen incubator is partnered with Delaware State University and offers a commercial-grade kitchen for rent. This space is ideal for budding restaurateurs who wish to experiment with recipes without worrying about the overhead of a commercial kitchen. Aside from culinary assistance, this incubator also provides assistance with more traditional business practices like business plan development.