Best Small Business Resources in the Corpus Christi Area

Description

The CBBIC is a multi-faceted business development organization affiliated with the Texas A&M University. They offer several programs that help entrepreneurs at any stage of the journey, from formalizing an idea to growing an existing company. A pre-incubation program helps teams refine an idea into a business plan and prepare to launch. An incubator offers traditional support and mentoring throughout a businesses early stages. Subsequent programs support companies as they increase revenue and help mitigate some of the growing pains that many expanding companies experience. One thing that sets CBBIC apart is the myriad of different forms their support can take. Using their network of academic and private industry resources, CBBIC can help with anything from negotiating expensive equipment rentals to marketing consulting.

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

This organization is a part of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, though it is open to all entrepreneurs looking to start a new business. The Center offers educational programs to teach vital business skills as well as several incubator programs for different types of businesses. The incubation programs last 6 months to 2 years and include educational programs, regular meetings with experienced mentors, and access to Kauffman courses.

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 La Retama Central Library in Corpus Christi offers an array of reference materials and resources to help entrepreneurs plan a new business. Aside from literature about starting a company, the library also offers access to several prominent databases that can help shed light on regional economics and the existing market.

Restrictions

A library card may be needed to access certain amenities.

Description

LiftFund is a non-profit community development finance institution that offers microloans and educational events to entrepreneurs with limited access to traditional capital. LiftFund hosts an impressive array of lectures, bootcamps, dinners, and meetups that cultivate the local San Antonio startup scene. These events are usually open to the public for a nominal fee and cover a diverse array of topics, from business plan basics to taxes. In addition to events, LiftFund provides a suite of online entrepreneurship courses that are free and open to the public. LiftFund also offers a incubator/co-working space called LIftOff and a Women’s Business Center.