AAAME - Arizona Business Resources

In Arizona, there are a number of options for businesses who require assistance to grow and succeed. Many of these options are provided at no cost to the participant.

1. To find one-on-one business counseling:
   • Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) have 14 offices throughout the state and provide free one-on-one business counseling. They are associated with the community colleges and the Small Business Administration (SBA). Contact them at 480-784-0590 to make an appointment.
   • SCORE, or the Service Corp of Retired Executives, also provides free one-on-one business counseling throughout the state. Contact the Phoenix SCORE chapter at 602-745-7250.
2. To start a business:
   • The Arizona Department of Commerce has many resources for starting a business in Arizona as well as specific information on small business assistance.
   • SELF, or the Self Employment Loan Fund, is a great option for the start-up business with their 8-week business planning course. For a small fee, the participant will learn how to write a business plan, apply for a loan and how to operate their own business. It is a great entry point for the first time business owner. Contact SELF at 602-340-8834.
3. To find information on the internet:
   • Small Business Administration, or the SBA, has a wonderful Web site with lots of information on how to start, operate and fund a business. There is also information on how to contact the SBA representatives in your area.
   • Office Depot has a great business center filled with how to start, operate and manage a business.
   • Inc.com - The Daily Resource for Entrepreneurs
   • Business Balls
   • Excellence in Financial Management
   • Net Promoter
   • U.S. Government Business Link
     • Ready Business Mentoring Initiative includes the Ready Business Mentoring Guides which are designed to teach business owners and managers about affordable ways to better protect their businesses.
4. To obtain consulting and training resources from the cities:
   • The city of Phoenix has many programs, including consulting, loans, training, workforce development and other opportunities for a beginning and growing business located in the city of Phoenix.
   • The cities of Glendale, Phoenix and Mesa have terrific business libraries with informative, helpful librarians and training programs. Contact the library in your area for more details.
5. There are many targeted industry groups that provide group support and assistance. Please see below:
   • National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
   • Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce
   • Grand Canyon Minority Supplier Development Council (GCMSDC) (602) 495-9950
   • Enterprise Network