The Texas Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network is one of the largest SBDC networks in the country. Funded by the SBA and hosted by Texas universities, SBDCs provide free business consulting, training, and technical assistance to small businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the state. This guide covers the major SBDC locations and the services available.
What SBDCs Provide
All Texas SBDC services are free and confidential. Core services include:
- One-on-one business consulting: Personalized guidance on business planning, financial analysis, marketing, and operations
- Business plan development: Help structuring and writing business plans for loans, grants, and operations
- Financial analysis: Cash flow projections, break-even analysis, and financial statement preparation
- Loan packaging: Assistance preparing SBA loan applications and other financing packages
- Market research: Access to databases and tools for market analysis and competitive research
- Government contracting: Guidance on SAM.gov registration, certifications, and procurement opportunities
- International trade: Export planning, market identification, and trade compliance guidance
- Technology commercialization: Support for businesses bringing new technologies to market
- Training workshops: Regularly scheduled courses on business topics
Major Texas SBDC Regions
UTSA SBDC (South-West Texas Region)
The University of Texas at San Antonio hosts the largest SBDC network in Texas, serving the San Antonio metro, the Rio Grande Valley, and much of south and west Texas. Centers include San Antonio, Laredo, Del Rio, and other locations.
UH SBDC (Houston Region)
The University of Houston SBDC serves the greater Houston metropolitan area, including Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, and surrounding counties. Located at UH and satellite offices throughout the region.
North Texas SBDC
Serving the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding north Texas counties. Multiple office locations across the region.
Texas State University SBDC
Serving central Texas including the Austin metro, San Marcos, and surrounding communities.
Additional Regions
Additional SBDC centers serve El Paso, Lubbock, the Panhandle, East Texas, and other regions. Every part of Texas has access to SBDC services through the network.
How to Access SBDC Services
- Find your nearest SBDC through the Texas SBDC Network website or by calling the SBA
- Request an appointment (walk-ins may be available but appointments are recommended)
- Complete a client intake form with basic business information
- Meet with an advisor for an initial consultation
- Receive ongoing consulting as needed (there is no limit on sessions)
SBDC vs. Other Free Resources
- SBDC: Professional staff consultants, strong in financial analysis, loan packaging, and technical assistance
- SCORE: Volunteer mentors, strong in industry-specific mentoring and personal experience
- Women's Business Centers: Specialized support for women entrepreneurs
- PTAC: Specialized in government contracting
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
SBDC advisors can help you identify and apply for grants, loans, and incentive programs. But knowing which programs to pursue first saves time and effort.
Not sure which programs may fit your business? Our free screening report checks your business against 150+ verified programs and shows you which ones may match. Start your free screening →