Best Small Business Resources in the St Cloud 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 St Cloud 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
Central 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
Great River Regional Library
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Accepts Walks In
Description
Libraries offer databases, books, and articles relevant to starting a business. You can also book a one-on-one mentoring session with a librarian who can show you how to use the resources.
Restrictions
Library card required for most services.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
CONTACT INFORMATION:
1300 W St. Germain St.
St. Cloud, MN 56301
320-650-2500
HOURS OF OPERATION:
MON - THU: 10 am - 9 pm
FRI: 10 am - 6 pm
SAT: 10 am - 5 pm
St Cloud 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