Best Small Business Resources in the Duluth Area
Starting a business is a life-changing experience. Minnesota has dozens of great resources to help entrepreneurs get started. Our team researched and vetted organizations in the Duluth area and compiled our list of recommended resources in this article.
You can also read our guide to starting a business in Minnesota.
Resources Available in your Area
Northeast MnSBDC
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free 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.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
Duluth Public Library
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Accepts Walks In
Description
The library has a wealth of databases, books, and articles useful to entrepreneurs. You can also book one-on-one sessions with a librarian to learn how to best use the resources.
Restrictions
Library card required for most services. Some of the databases are only available within the Duluth Library Main Branch.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
CONTACT INFORMATION:
520 W Superior St.
Duluth, MN 55802
218-730-4200
librarybusiness@duluthmn.gov
HOURS OF OPERATION:
MON: 10 am - 8 pm
TUE - WED: 10 am - 6 pm
THU: 10 am - 8 pm
FRI: 10 am - 6 pm
SAT: 10AM - 5 pm
Duluth SCORE
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
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.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
Northeast Entrepreneur Fund WBC
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Description
Women's Business Centers are nationwide programs established by the SBA to assist women in starting small businesses. Some of these centers are combined with other local organizations and use that relationship to offer even more services. Each Women's Business Center has counselors who can provide mentorship and assistance with business planning. Women’s Business Centers also provide a network of other businesses, and some have loan programs available
Restrictions
The Women's Business Centers are, as the name implies, meant for women primarily.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth