Did you know that Austin is one of only 5 cities in the entire country that has a local office devoted entirely to small business development that is not run by the SBA (Small Business Administration)?

I didn’t know that until I took advantage of one of the free/low-cost classes offered through the City of Austin Small Business Development Program.

The BIZAID Orientation class is designed to help potential and new business owners understand where they are in the start-up process and what resources are available to them.  The class was free.

I wasn’t really sure what I would get out of it, since I’m already operating, but I actually learned a lot.  Turns out, I can drop into the Business Solutions Center in the One Texas Center and they can answer any of my questions, hook me up with state and federal resources, help me write my business plan, or just help me refine that business idea.  Just about anything I need is there or on the website.

Plus, Austin has a relationship with a local lending group, and you can set up a free appointment with a business coach, who can talk to you about the steps toward obtaining a loan or whatever other financing you need.

I’m also really happy that I was able to sign up for a Quickbooks class through the SBDP.  The daylong class is SIGNIFICANTLY less expensive than similar classes, even ones offered through ACC, and it’s taught by a professional.

So if you’re thinking about starting a business in Austin — I highly recommend checking out the SBDP.  Or just wander into the Business Solutions Center.  T.J., who presented to our group, says he loves to answer questions and help people out.