Written by Denise Beaver
First and foremost, taking care of yourself is critical to running a successful business. Being a small business owner takes a lot of time, talent, energy and dedicated focus. Business ideas dash through your mind constantly throughout the day – every day. It is important to stay organized. Write goals and ideas down in a business plan – conduct market research and streamline your path to market. Assess and gather a team of trusted advisors and advocates so that you can use them to reach into the community to get additional help as needed.
Fortunately, Carroll County small business owners have access to a myriad of helpful resources. Clearly identifying the business’ needs will make it easier to get the right help. If you are unsure of your exact needs, call us at the local county economic development office to discuss your challenges and we will help identify the most suitable resources.
The U.S. Small Business Administration provides funding to communities nationwide to offer no-cost business counseling and training. Carroll County matches that funding to provide business consulting through the Northern Region of the Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Assistant Regional Director/Business Consultant Darren Peyton schedules one-on-one meetings to address your specific needs at the Carroll County Department of Economic Development or at a community location; contact 410-386-8390. Pre-business start-up entrepreneurs can also take advantage of the Maryland Small Business Development Center’s online courses at MarylandSBDC.org/training.
One of the biggest challenges faced by small businesses is accessing adequate capital to start or expand operations. SBDC counselors play a critical role in facilitating access to capital. Counselors are aware of low-interest loans, grants, or matching funding opportunities and help owners review financial documents and applications. They are connected to lending institutions and government agency representatives and will connect you with the right people quickly.
Economic Development staff help new or expanding business owners identify the correct county department and personnel regarding property zoning and the permitting process. By explaining and simplifying these processes, local government representatives encourage more small businesses to open successfully, which ultimately benefits the local economy. More business development services are available as the business grows.
Access to skilled labor force is one of the key components to facilitate business growth. Our team at Carroll County Workforce Development (carrollworks.com) is available to provide no-cost assessment, recruitment, and training options for businesses, youth, and adults. If your business has workforce needs, contact Business Consultant Scott Singleton at 410-386-2521.
