Starting and running a business can be filled with challenges. We've put together a list of resources and organizations that can provide help when you need it. Don't forget, sometimes the best help is another business, so participate with Collingswood Partners as we share, learn and grow together!
Small Business Development Centers (SBDC’s)
SBDCs help entrepreneurs realize the dream of business ownership and help existing businesses remain competitive in a complex, ever-changing global marketplace. SBDCs are hosted by leading universities and state economic development agencies and funded in part through a partnership with Small Business Administration (SBA).
- Rutgers Small Business Development Center provides services to new and existing businesses in Camden County. A variety of free or low-cost business consulting and training services are offered including business plan development, manufacturing assistance, financial packaging and lending assistance, exporting and importing support, procurement and contracting aid, marketing research and strategies, employer assistance and healthcare guidance.
- US Small Business Administration- The SBA is a federally funded organization that can help you plan, launch, manage and grow your business. They offer a wide variety of resources including education and technical assistance, financing, government contracting, and business advocacy. Check out their website for guides, webinars, and other resources.
- NJ Business Action Center - The NJ Business Portal is your "one-stop shop" for doing business in New Jersey-whether you're starting or looking to grow your business. You can find information reading state requirement for licensing, permitting, registering your business, and employer responsibilities.
Microlenders and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)
Through the Loans to Lender's component of the Fund for Community Economic Development, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority makes capital available to financial intermediary organizations who can effectively reach small businesses in local markets, including micro-lenders and CDFIs. These organizations have the ability to offer term loans and lines of credit to micro-enterprises and small businesses who may not qualify for more traditional bank financing. Many are also required to provide mentorship and educational programs to help businesses succeed.
- Cooperative Business Assistance Corporation (CBAC) - CBAC is a non-profit, public-private partnership created in 1987. Established to encourage the growth and stability of the small business sector, CBAC facilitates opportunities for banks to make business loans in locations throughout Southern New Jersey. CBAC offer loans to businesses for as little as $1,000 to as much as $2,000,000 through various loan and guaranty programs.
- Regional Business Assistance Corporation (RBAC) - RBAC is a private non-profit organization formed in 1981 to provide loans to both new and existing small businesses in New Jersey. RBAC's mission is to provide loan capital and business mentoring to small business owners that cannot access more conventional bank financing. All RBAC loan programs can be, and often are used in partnership with other lenders for larger loan amounts.
- UCEDC- A statewide, not-for-profit economic development corporation dedicated to assisting and financing small businesses and minority- and women-owned enterprises. Access to capital is often a small business owner’s greatest challenge and UCEDC offers a variety of financing options when conventional lending sources are not available. With loans ranging from $500 to $5 million, including microloans, SBA 7a, and SBA 504 loans, UCEDC will work with start-up and established businesses to find the right financing solution.
Other Important Resources and Links
Collingswood Partners
Collingswood Partners is an in-town resource for businesses that works on many cooperative marketing initiatives, events, seminars, business district beautification projects and more. Visit the Collingswood Partners page for more info.
Finding Employees
NJ Career Connections can assist you with finding the right employees for your business. Through a partnership with local One-Stop Career Centers, they also provide training, hiring incentives and a variety of other employer programs.
Libraries
The library is an often-overlooked resource for businesses. You can find information on everything from start-up references to marketing your business to interviewing employees. Some also feature database subscriptions that businesses can utilize for direct mail and marketing to gain potential customers. Not sure what you're looking for? Ask a librarian!
Tax Information
- Federal resources for taxpayers who file Form 1040, Schedules C, E, F or Form 2106, as well as small businesses with assets under $10 million can be found by clicking here.
- State of New Jersey tax resources can be found at the NJ Business Action Center website.