Best Small Business Resources in the Syracuse Area

Description

The Tech Garden runs a large variety of programs to support all types of entrepreneurial endeavors. Their incubator caters to companies in any industry, focusing on those that leverage technology in their business model. The organization hosts frequent events that are usually free and open to the public. Aside from their in-house programs, The Tech Garden partners with dozens of local organizations to provide many other avenues of support.

Description

The Couri Hatchery Student Business Incubator is run through Whitman Syracuse University and offers broad entrepreneurial support to qualifying startups. They accept promising ventures at any stage of the process and offer assistance in areas such as legal, HR, accounting, and many others. 

Restrictions

This service is only open to students of the university.

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 Central Library offers workshops and research services that can aid a budding entrepreneur. They offer several research databases on business basics and insights as well as classes and workshops. Event topics range from 3D printing classes to office hours with a lawyer. Their makerspace offers 3D printers and audio/visual studios to create physical and virtual content.

Restrictions

A library card may be required to access certain services.

Description

The SSIC is a micro-enterprise incubator managed by the Whitman School. They offer coworking space to startups that need it, as well as a suite of additional support programs. The SSIC emphasizes hands-on mentoring and continuous improvement and can provide tailored assistance on some topics ranging from business plan development to customer discovery. The coworking space features private offices, conference rooms, a class/training room, and large event spaces. This resource is best for an entrepreneur who has an idea in mind and is ready to explore its feasibility.

Restrictions

Must be committed to business development on the South Side or surrounding areas.

Description

This coworking space offers free coffee, printing, and ergonomic seats. The location features conference rooms and an ample meeting space that can be reserved for events. Membership plans are tiered to accommodate a variety of work needs.

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

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.