The SBA (Small Business Administration) is a government agency and a good resource for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Moreover, the SBA has special programs for minorities, women, and veterans. If you are interested in tapping into this valuable resource the SBA homepage located at http://www.sba.gov/.

The SBDC (Small Business Development Center) is another source for helping both new and existing small businesses put together a business plan, sharpen management skills, assist in networking, and much more. The SBDC is sponsored by the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, Thomas Nelson Community College, and are in partnership with the SBA. To find out more about the SBDC, please visit their homepage located at http://www.sba.gov/sbdc/, or contact them by phone:

Southside:
Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce 757-664-2592
Tidewater Community College 757-321-7143

Peninsula:
Thomas Nelson Community College 757-825-2957

The SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) is a partner of the SBA, and they are dedicated to helping small businesses succeed.

If you are interested in finding out what SCORE can do for you and your business, please visit the national SCORE homepage located at http://www.score.org. Moreover, there are three SCORE offices located in Hampton Roads (phone numbers listed below).

Virginia Beach: 757-437-6464
Norfolk: 757-441-3733
Hampton: 757-262-2000

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The VSBFA (Virginia Small Business Finance Authority) is another excellent resource for Virginia's small businesses. Their mission is "to promote Virginia businesses by increasing access to capital through the creative application of public and private financing, thereby maximizing employment opportunities and investment throughout the Commonwealth." The VSBFA's homepage is located at http://www.dba.state.va.us/financing/.

The VEDP (Virginia Economic Development Partnership) is a state organization that can help your business grow by introducing you to international trade, finding alternative financing resources, and providing customized research. They can also put you in touch with other organizations that can further assist you in your business decision making. Please visit http://www.yesvirginia.org/ to see what the VEDP could offer your company.

The VDBA (Virginia Department of Business Assistance) is a state organization that may be able to assist you and your business by providing access to capital, doing some small business counseling, providing workforce training, while also providing other trouble-shooting and problem-solving expertise. Please visit the VDBA's homepage at http://www.dba.state.va.us/about/.

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