SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCE CENTER
Whether you are starting a business or want to grow your current business the Chamber is here to help the diverse needs of small businesses.
On the site, you will find resources on financing, incentives, operations, technology and more. Our resources will help you navigate through planning and launching your startup, and you will be able to network with business leaders and mentors who can put their experience to work helping you.
PLANNING YOUR BUSINESS
Do you currently have a business plan? A business plan is an integral first step in starting a business. It is not only your guide to launching your business, it can be used as the basis for financing or investing. You will also want to select the Structure for your Business. You can download this template from the Alabama Small Business Development Center Network to help you through the Business Plan process:
FINANCING YOUR BUSINESS
Having adequate capital to get started or grow is the key to success. The Small Business Development Center of Alabama has a number of ways to help with expert advice and resources that can assist you every step of the way:
PERMITS AND LICENSES FOR YOUR BUSINESS
MARKETING YOUR BUSINESS
Marketing will be key. Be sure advertising is included in your budget. Choose avenues that can target the audience you need to reach. Customers and clients get their information on various platforms. Consider the most effective in terms of reach and cost for you:
Print – Newspapers, Magazines, Specialty Products
Social Media – Facebook, Instagram, YouTube (Be sure to join as a business and not an individual)
Broadcast – TV, Radio
E-mail Newsletters – Targeted to your own email list
Website – A central online resource that can be found by search engines looking for the product or service you offer
Small Business Development Center of Alabama can help with webinars and counseling at: Alabama SBDC Network | Alabama Small Business Development Center
The Chamber of Commerce is helpful in promoting your business as well. The Chamber holds ribbon cuttings and ground breaking ceremonies to help spread the word about your opening. They also promote your business through e-newsletters, networking events, and social media. Click here for a Chamber membership application.