Best Small Business Resources in the Rutland Area
Starting a business is a life-changing experience. Vermont has dozens of great resources to help entrepreneurs get started. Our team researched and vetted organizations in the Rutland area and compiled our list of recommended resources in this article.
You can also read our guide to starting a business in Vermont.
Resources Available in your Area
Rutland Economic Development Corporation SBDC
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
Rutland Free Library
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Accepts Walks In
Description
This library offers a wide variety of print resources that can help when researching an industry or business idea, or creating a business plan. Their research databases offer free access to numerous industry publications, insights, and tools that can help you enter a market confidently. Their public-use computers can be used to prepare materials and their meeting rooms are available for reservation.
Restrictions
A library card may be needed to access certain services.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
CONTACT INFORMATION:
10 Court St.
Rutland, VT 05701
802-773-1860
rutlandfree@rutlandfree.org
HOURS OF OPERATION:
MON - WED: 10 am - 7 pm
THU - FRI: 10 am - 5:30 pm
SAT: 10 am - 5 pm
Rutland 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
The Mint
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Description
The Mint is "Rutland's Makerspace," a collaborative workshop and classroom, where anyone can learn to create nearly anything. They offer classes on various tools, techniques, and machines so you can learn how to safely operate the equipment and learn the skills needed to prototype your product. The workspace itself is equipped to handle wood, metal, plastic, and electronics. Specific machines offered include 3D printers, CNC machines, welding equipment, mills, and lathes. They also offer CAD software to assist in product development.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth