Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are one of the most valuable free resources available to Texas business owners. Funded by the SBA and the State of Texas, SBDCs provide no-cost, confidential business advising, training, and research assistance. Texas operates the largest SBDC network in the country.
What SBDCs Provide
Texas SBDCs offer free services including:
- One-on-one business advising (no charge, confidential)
- Business plan development assistance
- Financial projections and cash flow analysis
- Loan packaging and lender referrals
- Market research and industry analysis
- Government contracting guidance
- Export readiness assessment
- Technology commercialization support
- Disaster recovery assistance
Texas SBDC Network Regions
Texas SBDCs are organized into regional networks hosted by lead universities. Each network operates multiple centers across its region:
North Texas SBDC (Dallas/Fort Worth)
Hosted by the University of North Texas. Serves the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Northeast Texas, and surrounding areas. Centers are located in Dallas, Fort Worth, Denton, Plano, and surrounding communities.
Houston SBDC Network
Hosted by the University of Houston. Serves the greater Houston area and Southeast Texas. Centers in Houston, Galveston, Beaumont, and surrounding communities.
South-West Texas Border SBDC
Hosted by the University of Texas at San Antonio. Serves San Antonio, the Rio Grande Valley, Laredo, and the South Texas border region.
NW Texas SBDC
Hosted by Texas Tech University. Serves West Texas, the Panhandle, Lubbock, Midland-Odessa, and Abilene areas.
How to Access Your Local SBDC
- Visit americassbdc.org/find-your-sbdc to locate the SBDC nearest to your business address.
- Schedule an appointment. Most SBDCs offer both in-person and virtual advising sessions.
- Prepare for your session. Bring your business plan (if you have one), financial statements, and specific questions about your business challenges.
How SBDCs Help With Grant Identification
SBDC advisors are trained to identify government programs that may fit your business. They can help you:
- Identify federal, state, and local programs you may qualify for
- Understand program requirements and application processes
- Prepare financial documents needed for applications
- Connect with program administrators and lenders
- Navigate certifications like HUB, 8(a), and WOSB
SBDCs vs. Paid Grant Services
SBDCs provide free advising that overlaps with some services charged for by private consultants. However, SBDCs are generalists who cover a broad range of business topics. For specific program matching, a targeted screening service can complement SBDC advising by providing a comprehensive analysis of which programs may fit your business.
Get a Program Match
Your SBDC can provide free general guidance, and our free screening report provides specific program matching. Together, they give you the clearest picture of which grants, tax credits, loans, and incentives may be available to your business. Start your free screening →