Best Small Business Resources in the Newark-Jersey City Area

Description

The Center for Urban Entrepreneurship & Economic Development is an organization at Rutgers University that aims to stimulate economic growth in Newark, New Jersey by encouraging urban entrepreneurs. CUEED has several programs that help entrepreneurs turn their ideas into sustainable businesses. From the Pipeline to Inclusive Innovation (PII) Initiative to the Etsy Craft Entrepreneurship Workshop, CUEED has programs to help entrepreneurs succeed.

Restrictions

Each of the 7 programs offered by CUEED may have separate restrictions.

Description

C3 Workplace offers a range of flexible, shared office space rentals and support services for new and growing companies that may not want the commitment of a long-term office rental. Rental plans range from a single semi-private desk to entire offices, as well as shared business lounges. Amenities include full-time receptionists, conference rooms, and a myriad of seminars and workshops to improve small business skills. C3 Workplace partners with software providers and will work with entrepreneurs to recommend software that meets needs ranging from accounting to logistics.

Restrictions

C3Workplace’s shared co-working space and events cost a fee.

Description

GNEC is ideal for entrepreneurs in Northern New Jersey in Essex County, though it serves the entire Jersey area. GNEC provides small business loans and financial training. GNEC can directly provide loans up to $50,000. For amounts larger than $50,000 they have lending partners that are willing to provide up to $2 million. GNEC also partners with institutions in different counties.

Restrictions

GNEC works with businesses in New Jersey with a focus on Northern New Jersey.

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

This library has a “small business service section” that is dedicated to entrepreneurs who want to do research. Experts are available to answer questions via the “Ask a Business librarian” service by email or by phone. With a New Jersey library card, you can use the Business Research Tool to get access to market research and company databases.

Restrictions

Services require a library card.

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

Rising Tide Capital is a non-profit organization dedicated to spurring economic growth in the Newark-Jersey City metro area. They offer several programs for entrepreneurs, notably a 12-week course in small business management and a separate accelerator program that offers six months of free office space and legal consulting, among other benefits. Rising Tide Capital also offers financial assistance, working with individual entrepreneurs to build credit, evaluate their startup capital requirements, and connect them with local lenders. All Rising Tide Capital services are offered at very low costs to entrepreneurs.

Description

The Summit Free Public Library provides several services that may be useful for entrepreneurs, most at no cost. The library offers access to several pertinent databases, including Business Source Premier, Regional Business News, and Small Business Reference Center. Additional resources include SCORE counseling (by appointment), meeting rooms, and 3D printing.

Restrictions

Services are only provided for those who have a library card.

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.