Texas Small Business Development Centers provide free, confidential business advising funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration and state matching funds. The Texas SBDC network is the largest in the country, with dozens of offices statewide. Knowing how to use these services effectively can save you significant time and money.
What SBDCs Provide
- One-on-one advising: Free confidential meetings with experienced business advisors
- Business plan development: Help writing or refining your business plan
- Financial projections: Assistance creating financial statements and projections
- Grant and program identification: Help identifying government programs you may qualify for
- Loan packaging: Help preparing loan applications for SBA and other lenders
- Market research: Access to commercial databases and market analysis tools
- Workshops and training: Regular seminars on business topics
How to Get Started
- Find your nearest SBDC: Visit americassbdc.org or the Texas SBDC network websites
- Request an appointment: Most SBDCs offer both in-person and virtual advising
- Complete the intake form: Basic information about your business and what help you need
- Attend your first meeting: Come prepared with questions and any existing business documents
How to Prepare for Your SBDC Meeting
- Bring your current business plan (if you have one)
- Bring recent financial statements or tax returns
- Have a clear list of questions or challenges you need help with
- Know what stage your business is in (idea, startup, growth, expansion)
- Be specific about what programs or funding you are interested in
Getting the Most From Your SBDC
- Be consistent: Schedule regular follow-up meetings, not just one visit
- Act on recommendations: Your advisor will take you more seriously if you follow through
- Ask about programs: SBDCs know about programs most business owners have never heard of
- Use the research tools: Ask your SBDC about market research databases available through the network
- Attend workshops: Free workshops cover topics from marketing to financial management
SBDC Locations
Texas operates four regional SBDC networks hosted by universities: UT San Antonio, University of Houston, UT Dallas, and Texas Tech. Each network serves a defined region of the state. Full SBDC location guide.
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