With absolute certainty, when it comes to running your small business, you know best. However, every small business owner is eventually faced with issues whereas connections to other like-minded business owners can be highly beneficial. No small business owner needs to feel ill-equipped or feel as if they are alone when issues arise.
We would like to help by providing a list of small business associations that could make all of the difference in growing your business. Although you may already be aware of a few of these associations, there are some that literally, every small business should consider joining. Take the time to explore your options below:
Did You Know That The Small Business Association (SBA) Offers Community Groups?:
It’s well known that the SBA offers loans, but this isn’t all that they offer. Nearly anything that one could wish for with a small business association can be found within an SBA community group. If they don’t have something you need, they will guide you in the right direction. Connect with a community group on and offline in your community.
Access StartUpNation For Information That Will Help You Start Up or Grow Your Business:
Whether you’ve been in business for awhile or you’re serious about beginning a startup, you’ll find plenty of valuable information to help you create a business that will thrive. If you would like they have a radio show featuring thought leaders that are eager to share what they’ve learned on their journey. Take a look!
Business Network International (BNI) is an Excellent Association for Networking:
Every association is different. BNI will require that you apply for approval. They already have 7500 chapters. Once approved, while attending sessions only one member from any industry will attend group meetings making you the voice of authority for your industry. Benefits include trade shows, newsletters, workshops and more.
The National Federation of Independent Business (NFBI) Offers Advocacy for Nearly 350,000 Small Businesses:
NFBI is 100% engaged in their devotion to America’s small businesses and their owners. They advocate and lobby at federal and state levels, addressing various small business issues. Attend some of their events that are dedicated to networking and offering small business resources and research. You may also have the opportunity to gain access to their online forums and small business discounts. Join and enjoy the immense amount of information and assistance offered.
Any Small Business Should Definitely Join Their Local Chamber of Commerce :
Click on the link and locate a chamber in your community. This is especially beneficial for those small businesses that sell business to business. They offer access to various workshops, newsletters and even offer discounts on FedEx shipping. As a member, you’ll have the first opportunity to access booths at their conventions and trade shows among other benefits.
The Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) is One of the Older Associations:
This Association has been in operation since 1987, the members of EO currently provide employment to a stunning 3.4 million persons globally. You can see many of their impressive association stats on the front page of their website. Joining this association elevates your opportunity to become a part of mentorship programs. You will also have the ability to access various industry professionals and peer to peer educational platforms.
Don’t Forget To Explore and Join Trade and Industry Associations – Start With the HVVC Dwight Martin Library:
The resources available here are remarkable if you’re in need of assistance with any aspect of the trade industry. They even offer access to a librarian through live chat or any other way you may wish to inquire about industry-specific information. The research available with this organization is extensive.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Offers an Extensive List of Associations:
Even the FDA wants to help small businesses that specialize in cosmetics, soaps, perfumes, chemistry, chemicals and so on.
Below we are providing some of the top links to associations for women, veterans, minorities, small restaurants and even global change SMBs:
Office of Veterans Business Development is an amazing resource offered by the SBA that, although is not considered an association, offers a myriad of resources and assistance to Veteran-owned businesses or start-ups.
National Veteran-Owned Business Association (NAVOBA) – This is an association that will offer Vets some excellent small business networking opportunities. They also offer a small business owner-director. Their goal, among other services, is to encourage consumers to purchase from Veteran-owned small businesses.
EWomanNetwork – One of the largest and most established women’s small business associations in the nation.
Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) – This a women-centered association that will assist with seasoned business owners or women who would like to start a business. This association has an “Access to Capitol” program for women’s small businesses.
Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) – This association specializes in providing resources to minority small business owners who would like information and assistance with beginning, managing, or financing their startup or existing small business. They feature a research library, various guides, and webinars to assist in creating a successful business.
National Restaurant Association – Specializes in the various aspects of small restaurant ownership.
Not all small business associations charge fees. However, these associations have the ability to allow small businesses to create loyal clients/customers, business partners, and other invaluable connections. The point is, there are resources and benefits available with every association. There are many more associations for small business, but those listed above are excellent examples of the possibilities.
At Cogent Analytics, we never stop looking for ways to improve your business and neither should you. So, check out some of our other posts for helpful business information:
