About Us
The Small Business Division provides business training, educational events, and coaching to empower entrepreneurs. Our mission is to foster job creation and support the growth of new and existing businesses by providing capacity-building information, tools, and resources.
Contacting the Small Business Division
The Economic Development Department's Small Business Division is here to assist you. Our team is available to answer your questions and provide support via email, phone, or by appointment.
Austin Small Business Week May 5-9
Celebrate Austin Small Business Week with us from May 5–9! Join free classes on funding, bookkeeping, marketing, and more. Ready to grow your business skills and connect with local entrepreneurs?
Save Your Seat
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25 Years of Empowering Entrepreneurs—Let's Celebrate!
This year, we’re celebrating 25 years of the City of Austin’s Small Business Division supporting local entrepreneurs and driving innovation. Join us on Tuesday, May 6, from 9–11 a.m. at the Austin Central Library for breakfast, networking, and inspiring stories of impact. Don’t miss this special event. Save Your Seat
Artist Career Training
A six-week program to advance your creative business. Learn from subject matter experts about City resources, business planning, intellectual property, marketing, and funding. You’ll also meet with mentors and expand your professional network. Session to start in October. Be the first to know when applications are available. Don't Miss Out
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City of Austin: Small Business Off Hours
Join us for Small Business Office Hours and connect with resources, programs, and services for new and established businesses. Participating departments include the City of Austin's Economic Development, Financial Services, Austin Public Library, Austin Energy, and Small and Minority Business Resources departments. Office Hours
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"The City of Austin's Small Business classes were extremely valuable. Julie Niehoff's Explore Funding Options session helped me brainstorm and think creatively about alternative funding opportunities, while Joana Linares's Basic Bookkeeping class provided the knowledge to manage our finances and remain tax compliant. I highly recommend these programs to aspiring entrepreneurs" - Anahit Fernandez, Altamoran Interactive LLC"
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Other Resources:
- The Community Navigator Program supports local businesses, non-profit organizations, and creative professionals impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Local entities can apply for no-cost assistance from Community Navigators for one-on-one coaching, virtual classes, and applying for government and philanthropic support.
- Economic Development Department’s Small Business Resources Directory - Database of local, state, federal, and community resources. Filter by “Disaster Relief” to find immediate support for businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Small Business Needs Assessment - The Economic Development Department connected with Austin's small business community through a Small Business Needs Assessment. Participants provided insights on learning preferences, business growth needs, and pandemic impacts. Read the Small Business Needs Assessment overview and results.
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