Dreamed of being a local business owner? Most of us do but we know it’s hard work and don’t know where to begin. Just like you, I didn’t know where to turn when I started my business. I’m familiar with Co.Starters because I’m a trained facilitator for the program. I checked out the SBDC at Gannon and connected with staff at the Erie Chamber. What I’ve learned is there are great resources here in Erie, PA to help you formulate that idea in your head to a plan on paper.
It’s also confusing. Here are eight great organizations who help small businesses and start-ups. Not all of these will be for you and not every resource in Erie is listed but this is a start. Hopefully this list helps you understand the main focus of these local resources and how they can help you get your business moving in the right direction.
Ben Franklin Technology Partner of Central and Northwestern PA
Are you a tech-based startup or small Erie manufacturer? Ben Franklin Technology Partners provides startup funding and business support services. They don’t provide loans; they invest in you and your business and share the risk. Their Transformation Business Services division helps early stage entrepreneurs look at problems, identify opportunities and conduct market research and feasibility studies.
Regional Director Brian Slawin has a wealth of information and works tirelessly at connecting people. If you are in the tech space or working in manufacturing, I highly suggest you give him a call.
To learn more: CLICK HERE
The Innovation Collaborative
The Innovation Collaborative appeared on the scene to energizer and organize the conversation about entrepreneurs and business start-ups. One of their programs, CO.STARTERS has helped more than 45 entrepreneurs get started. The program is based on the lean business canvas model created by Alexander Osterwalder. It’s a 9-week program to help you work through your start-up idea. If you do the work each week, you will have a simple business plan by the end of the program . If you want to learn more, contact Executive Director, Beth Zimmer. I am also happy to answer questions, as I am a trained facilitator for the program.
To learn more: CLICK HERE
Erie Chamber and Growth Partnership
If you don’t know where to go for answers or need help finding helpful resources, an Erie Chamber Business Outreach Specialist will meet with you free of charge and connect you to others in town who can help. With the arrival of Executive Director James Grunke and the appointment of Amanda Kochirka to Program Director, plans are in the works for new educational programming to help our businesses and our region grow. The Erie Chamber also hosts the popular Business After Hours events, a great networking opportunity.
To learn more: CLICK HERE
Small Business Development Center, the “SBDC”.
For years, Gannon University’s SBDC has had a commitment to Erie’s business economy by providing resources and a team of consultants to help. SBDC Director Maggie Horne has extensive experience and leads a small team of consultants. There is a lot of information on their website and a good library of resources. I suggest taking their First Step class. I did and it’s three hours of flowing information and resources. It’s the first thing you need to do if you want to meet with one of their Business Consultants.
To learn more: CLICK HERE
Erie County Data Center
Are you so excited to get started and so confident in your idea, you don’t slow down enough to evaluate the market potential? Do your due diligence and check out the data available to you at the Erie County Data Center; it can help you be more on point with your projections and business plan.
To learn more: CLICK HERE
Bridgeway Capital
Leading the way for minority entrepreneurs is the Erie Inclusive Fund, a program of Bridgeway Capital. In addition to providing flexible capital, Bridgeway Capital’s Our Ready To Grow program offers educational opportunities so you as an entrepreneur can grow your skill set. The really nice thing about Bridgeway is that they take time to get to know your vision, your plan and will tailor a financial plan that aligns with your goals for growth. You will really feel like they are part of your team.
To learn more: CLICK HERE
Coffee Shops
Maybe it’s because I enjoy a cup of coffee but local coffee shops are a great place to meet new people, network and even do some impromptu market research. If you work from home, I highly recommend you plan some time out of the office and in a public space. There you can have an impromptu focus group and ask others about a new idea, a new product, or your pricing model. There is a great business vibe at Ember Forge and you are sure to see someone you know. A great place for meet-ups and brainstorming is Pressed; you may also browse their books for the latest business read. If you are a creative, you can’t beat the vibe and community at Tipsy Bean. These are all locally owned so don’t hesitate to reach out and spend some time listening to their stories and what it took to get to opening day.
Barb Weber Coaching
I know, right! In addition to these community resources, sometimes you just need someone to help you sort out the problems and find solutions. As a local Small Business Strategist, I help small business owners by asking critical questions in order to deep dive into root causes and find creative solutions. Think this may be for you?
To learn more: CLICK HERE