Best Small Business Resources in the Springfield Area

Description

The Springfield technology park is really three resources in one. The Business Growth Center is the resource most entrepreneurs will have access to. As the name implies, it is where entrepreneurs can go to receive advice and to connect with other entrepreneurs. The Scibelli Enterprise Center is functionally an incubator/coworking space. For Incubator members, the center offers a customized team of mentors to help start and grow your business. The Springfield Technology Park is actually a massive 15.3 acre, 300,000 square feet incubator for technology companies. It has an on-site cafeteria, 24/7 security, and ample parking.

Restrictions

The Springfield Technology Park is restricted to technology-oriented companies, other organizations have no such restriction.

Description

Indian Orchard Mills is a facility designed to be helpful for artists and creative type entrepreneurs. Whatever medium you use, digital or tangible, Indian Orchard Mills could function as a useful workspace. 

Restrictions

Must contact Indian Orchard Mills to rent the space before it is available for use.

Description

Orange Innovation Center is an incubator that houses a variety of business types, from service and retail to food and product creation. If you become a member of orange space, you can also receive assistance with the creation of your business plan, marketing assistance, etc.

Restrictions

Must become a member to have access to the facility and its network. 

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

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

The WNE Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship features 5 services for entrepreneurs and small business owners. The Small Business Clinic is an application-driven program that works to help solve legal issues in a timely manner. Speaker Series is where the center brings in renowned experts and experienced entrepreneurs to speak and share their knowledge. Information Series offer overview presentations on various business topics to help entrepreneurs become financially literate. Business Makeover is a live presentation in which experts look at a business plan submitted by a small business or entrepreneur and critique it in an effort to show others how they can improve their own business plan. Conferences featuring scholars and/or policymakers about issues facing entrepreneurs are frequently hosted. 

Restrictions

In order to receive legal assistance, your legal issue must be something that can be resolved within 11-14 weeks, and due to the fact that the Center is intended for entrepreneurs who cannot afford to pay an attorney, you must be below a certain income threshold in order to be considered.