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1. Do I have to pay for counseling and training through SBDCs, WBCs, and MBDCs?

Counseling is free and training is low-cost with these partners. The additional funds that Congress provided will help keep this possible. Mentorship through SCORE is always free.

2. What is a small business development center (SBDC)?

SBDCs are a national network of nearly 1,000 centers that are located at leading universities, colleges, state economic development agencies, and private partners. They provide counseling and training to new and existing businesses. Each state has a lead center that coordinates services specifically for that state. To find out more about SBDCs, visit America’s SBDC website.

3. What is a WBC; is it only for women?

WBCs are a national network of more than 100 centers that offer the following resources to entrepreneurs on numerous business development topics:

• Mentoring
• Networking
• One-on-one counseling
• Technical assistance
• Training
• Workshops

In addition to women, WBCs are mandated to serve the needs of underserved entrepreneurs, including low-income entrepreneurs. They often offer flexible hours to meet the needs of their diverse clientele. To find out more about WBCs, visit the Association of Women’s Business Center website.

4. What is SCORE?

SCORE provides free, confidential business advice through our volunteer network of over 10,000 business experts. You can meet with a mentor online. Find out more at the SCORE website.

5. Who do MBDCs serve?

MBDCs are a good option for minority-owned businesses (including those owned by Black, Hispanic, Asian American/Pacific Islander, and American Indian business owners), especially those seeking to penetrate new markets - domestic and global - and grow in size and scale.