Business Details
46 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Business Growth in Massachusetts
Since 1980, the Small Business Development Center has been dedicated to fostering economic growth by empowering small businesses across the Commonwealth. Our team of experienced advisors provides no-cost, confidential business consulting, technical assistance, and training programs tailored to the unique needs of entrepreneurs and small business owners. We specialize in business plan development, financial analysis, market strategy, international trade, and government procurement, helping clients navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Backed by partnerships with the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Massachusetts Office of Business Development, and academic institutions like the University of Massachusetts Amherst, we deliver high-quality resources that drive business success.Our statewide network of regional offices and outreach locations ensures accessibility within 30 minutes of most locations in Massachusetts. Through rigorous quality control measures, including annual performance reviews and third-party impact assessments, we maintain accountability and continuously improve our services. Our clients consistently outperform state averages in sales growth and job creation, reflecting our commitment to measurable economic impact. We adhere to strict nondiscrimination policies, ensuring equitable access to services for all legal U.S. residents. As a trusted partner for over four decades, we remain focused on our mission: educating and empowering businesses to build profitable, sustainable enterprises.
Services
Business Advising
International Trade Assistance
Government Sales Advisory
SBIR Assistance
Business Training
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We offer no-cost, confidential business advising from experienced professionals.
- Our statewide network ensures accessibility within 30 minutes of most locations.
- We specialize in international trade and government procurement assistance.
- Our clients outperform state averages in sales and job growth.
- We provide tailored training programs supported by federal and state partnerships.
Associations and certifications
- America's SBDC
- Baldrige National Quality Program
What people say
Expert guidance
Impactful training
Job creation support
Free resources
Accessible network
Services
Business Advising
Our no-cost, confidential business advising services help entrepreneurs and small business owners develop growth strategies, secure financing, and navigate operational challenges. Advisors provide expertise in business plan creation, financial analysis, and market research. With a focus on personalized guidance, we support clients at every stage of business development.
International Trade Assistance
The Massachusetts Export Center offers customized services to businesses exploring or expanding into international markets. We provide export strategy development, compliance guidance, and access to global trade resources. Our programs help companies overcome barriers to international sales and capitalize on cross-border opportunities.
Government Sales Advisory
We assist businesses in pursuing federal, state, and local government procurement opportunities. Services include contract registration guidance, proposal review, and bid-matching for qualified companies. Our experts help clients understand government procurement processes and position themselves for competitive success.
SBIR Assistance
Our SBIR program advisors help technology and life sciences companies secure non-dilutive research funding through federal grants. We provide support with opportunity identification, proposal development, and partnership strategies to maximize success in competitive award programs.
Business Training
We offer no-cost and low-cost training programs covering business fundamentals, export compliance, cybersecurity, and government contracting. Our workshops, webinars, and conferences provide actionable insights and skills development for entrepreneurs at all experience levels.
Questions
What services does the Massachusetts SBDC offer?
We provide free business advising, international trade assistance, government contracting support, SBIR funding guidance, and business training programs across Massachusetts.
How do I request advising services?
Complete our online Request for Advising form to connect with a regional or specialty advisor for personalized business support.
Are services available statewide?
Yes, with six regional offices and outreach locations, our services are accessible within 30 minutes of most locations in Massachusetts.
What training programs are available?
We offer workshops on business fundamentals, export compliance, cybersecurity, government contracting, and technology innovation topics.
Does the SBDC help with government contracts?
Yes, our Government Sales Advisory Program provides bid assistance, proposal review, and federal procurement strategy development for Massachusetts businesses.
Is there a cost for SBDC services?
Most services, including business advising and training, are free or low-cost, supported by federal and state funding partnerships.
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