If youҲe interested in starting a small business and would like to get the support of others, you can join a local small business association or find a microlending agency. The SBA is an agency of the United States government that offers various programs and services to small businesses. You can learn more about the SBA microlending program, and find a SBDC in your area. In this article, weҬl discuss some of the benefits of joining a localsmall business association or federal microlending program. Join the Yorktown Small Business Association The Yorktown Small Business Association is a rapidly growing grassroots group of local entrepreneurs and small businesses that are committed to the communityҳ economic development. Whether youҲe an owner or a potential owner, the YSBA offers invaluable support and networking opportunities for small business owners. Interested in becoming a member? Read on to discover more about this group and the opportunities available to you. Founded by Bob Ross, the YSBA was formed in 2014 to foster economic development for small businesses in Yorktown, NY. The Yorktown Small Business Association (SBA) is an organization comprised of more than 100 local businesses, including restaurants and cafes. They also offer networking and educational opportunities for local businesses. The Yorktown Small Business Association has many ways to get involved. Become a member to learn about networking opportunities and to connect with other small business owners. The Yorktown Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Association of Yorktown are both member organizations. Join the National Federation for Independent Businesses If you are interested in owning your own business, you should consider joining the National Federation for Independent Businesses (NFIB). The federation supports small business owners nationwide, and its members work together to create a larger buying group that competes with larger corporations. To get the most out of your membership, consider these three foundations: NFIB offers many services to its members, such as discounted health insurance and business forecasts. Members can even vote on public policy issues in ballots. The NFIB also publishes a bimonthly magazine, MyBusiness, that includes updates on the organizationҳ agenda. For only $195 per year, you can join this organization and start receiving valuable services. There are countless other benefits to becoming a member of NFIB, from discounted health insurance to local networking events. The National Federation for Independent Businesses is a non-profit organization dedicated to the interests of small and independent businesses. With over 600,000 members, NFIB works to protect and promote the interests of small businesses nationwide. Their advocacy work influences public policy at the national and state level. It works on behalf of small business owners and helps shape legislation that benefits them and their customers. While many small businesses are struggling, NFIB can offer you a support system for your small business. As an NFIB member, you get to take part in advocating for small business in Washington, D.C. and every state capitol. You get to enjoy a comprehensive benefits package and the freedom to telecommute anywhere you want, and you can move up the ranks. The NFIB also offers opportunities to advance your career. With so many benefits and services, youҬl be glad you joined! So why wait? Join the National Federation for Independent Businesses today! Learn about theSBAҳ microlending programs One of the benefits of SBA microlending programs is that they do not require a high credit score. While these loans are designed for borrowers who have little or no credit history, the SBA takes a backseat role in their program. The SBA leaves a great deal of discretion to intermediary SBA lenders, and they set the terms of the loans. They do not even review the credit history of applicants. While SBA Microloans can be difficult to secure, they can supplement a diverse portfolio of investors. Many of these programs are available for businesses looking to refinance debt or purchase real estate. While the SBA Microloans program is limited to for-profit small businesses, it is still a great option for those without access to traditional financing. If youҲe a nonprofit, SBA loans wonҴ help you, since they are not intended to finance non-profit companies. To apply for an SBA Microloan, first find a lender in your area. There are multiple intermediaries in the same geographic area, and they all work with different criteria. To apply, you can find one that meets your business needs and has competitive interest rates. You may also find several SBA Microlenders in the same area. Keep in mind, however, that these programs can be accessed through different intermediaries. A good business plan is crucial when applying for an SBA Microloan. Before applying, you should know your personal and business credit scores. You may find it difficult to qualify for a loan if your personal credit score is low. To improve your chances of approval, you should document any pending items on your credit report with email or receipts. In addition, your business plan should include your businessҳ business model. SBA Microloans are aimed at startup companies, and can range up to $50,000. In fact, the Congressional Research Service reports that the average microloan issued in 2020 was $14,434, carrying a 6.5% interest rate. Microloans are generally used for business expansion, not for paying off debt or buying real estate. These loans are administered by nonprofit community lenders in your area. Since these programs are not commercially-backed, they are often hard to find. Find a local SBDC If you own a small business, you may be wondering how to find a local small business association. If you donҴ know how to do this, here are some things to look for. One of the best resources for local small businesses is the local chamber of commerce. Not only can you find local customers at chamber events, you can also attend training workshops and get discounted FedEx shipping. In addition, you can get first dibs on booths at local trade shows. Membership in a small business association may seem like a luxury. But it is one of the most cost-effective ways to stay current on industry trends and regulations. Memberships to industry and trade associations often offer discounts on office supplies, inventory and materials. In addition, they provide access to events, entrepreneur directories, and local education centers. Not to mention, you can take advantage of member discounts on insurance. So, if youҲe looking to start your own business, join a local small business association and benefit from their resources. The Small Business Administration provides a wide range of resources to help American entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. They also guarantee low-cost business loans and provide invaluable resources to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses. There are district and regional offices throughout the United States, and there are many resources and opportunities available through the Small Business Administration. Contact your local district office to find out how you can find a local small business association and begin growing your business. If youҲe looking for a womenҳ small business association, thereҳ eWomenNetwork, which was founded in 2000. It is one of the largest womenҳ business networks in the country with over 2,000 member companies. With 118 chapters nationwide, itҳ likely that thereҳ a chapter near you. Find a local small business association today to maximize your chances of success! The postThe Benefits of Joining a Small Business Association appeared first onSMB Place.