Small Business Counseling
Free Small Business Counseling
The Chamber offers opportunities for FREE general business counseling.
star Massachusetts Small Business Center at Clark University
Massachusetts Small Business Development Center at Clark University (SBDC)-
The Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network Central Regional Office is located in the Historic District on the campus of Clark University. We provide free and confidential one-to-one management advice and technical assistance to prospective and existing small businesses. Our business advisors will assist clients in developing their business plans, marketing plans, financials, cash flows and other areas critical to ensure a successful venture. Often times, we will also act as a common access point for financing, and upon evaluation by our staff, can recommend or even introduce owners to the appropriate federal, state or local financing sources. They also work actively with local banks and the SBA, especially when SBA loan guarantees may be required to finance the venture or expansion. Their clientele includes start-up, early stage, expanding and troubled businesses. All programs are offered to the public on a non-discriminatory basis.
An expert business counselor is available at the Chamber office on Thursdays to provide high quality, one-to-one management and technical assistance in a variety of areas including finance, marketing, business plans and accounting to new, expanding and/or challenged businesses.
COVID-19 UPDATE
To protect the health and safety of our clients and employees during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (MSBDC) advising will be offered virtually until further notice.
We are committed to supporting entrepreneurs during these very challenging times. Staff are working remotely and can be reached via email (best method) or telephone. They are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
If you are a new client, please register in order to receive free and confidential business advice from our advisers. Registration is fast, easy, and free, and may be completed online. Or simply email sbdc@clarku.edu for more information.
Contact the MSBDC staff
Download the SBDC Coronavirus Newsletter
Visit Clark University’s COVID-19 Information site
star SCORE
SCORE, the nation’s largest volunteer business counseling service, is a nonprofit association dedicated to help those in business, about to start one, or just thinking about it. Founded in 1964, SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration. Over 50 counselors participate in Boston’s SCORE chapter and their combined experience and knowledge could match most Business School faculties. The confidential counseling is FREE plus there are modestly priced seminars in the Greater Boston area. Our primary goal is to create an on-going relationship with small business entrepreneurs to help them make good business decisions to foster successes, which lead to profits.
SCORE business counselors are available at the Chamber office on Tuesdays to offer mentoring services on issues facing small businesses.
To schedule an appointment online click here
COVID-19 UPDATE
SCORE has suspended in-person meetings until further notice. However, continued support is fully available through online modalities. Our mentors can provide valuable expertise to support you through this crisis.