Contact Info
Our division strives to provide helpful programs and resources to guide small business owners.
BizAid℠ Business Orientation
Before starting your business or establishing a brick-and-mortar presence, learn what resources are available to you in Austin. BizAid Business Orientation is an introductory class designed to equip aspiring business owners with the knowledge and resources to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey seamlessly. Navigate the intricate landscape of city, state, and federal regulations and gain invaluable insights into the City of Austin's development process for commercial properties. Empower yourself with the tools, guidance, and support to transform your business dream into a tangible reality. Register for a BizAid Business Orientation.
Cooperative Coaching
A cooperative is a business or organization owned by and operated for the benefit of those using its services.
Cooperative Coaching Advising Form
Austin Cooperative Business Certificate Program
Business Training
Small business owners and entrepreneurs can acquire new skills to assist in starting, growing, or expanding their businesses. Small business training includes hiring new personnel, forming a business entity, social media and marketing, and creating a business plan. The training classes are no-cost to low-cost and are either in-person or virtual.
Visit our calendar for a complete list of upcoming classes and events developed to help small business owners develop skills.
Small Business Preparedness
The Small Business Preparedness is a resource site to aid and assist businesses in creating a plan for disaster recovery as well as finding help after economic and natural disasters. This site is by no means comprehensive; however, the information contained may meet the immediate needs of your business during your time of preparation and recovery.
Market Research Tools
- AtoZdatabases - Directory and marketing database that includes 30 million businesses and 220 million residents.
- Austin Public Library Business & Nonprofits Database - Marketing tools, company and investment information, business plans, directories, interactive maps, and metrics.
- Shop Local - Enables visitors to promote customers doing business with local companies.
- Small Business Advisor - Provides information on numerous topics related to planning, starting, managing, and growing your business.
- Small Business Insights - A robust business analytics tool designed to support small and medium-sized businesses in a variety of stages, from the entrepreneur looking to start their first business to a seasoned business owner looking to expand their customer base.
- Small Business Resource Directory - in this comprehensive directory of non-profit agencies, local, state, and federal governments.