Posted on 8/6/2025, 11:06:42 AM
One of the most rewarding things you can do in life is come up with and run your own business, but it can also be one of the most challenging things you will ever do. You've got to be the one making those strategic decisions and manage the cash flow. You have to be the one to think up a marketing plan that works and then try and scale the business as time moves forward. With all of those things that you're doing, even the most seasoned entrepreneurs hit roadblocks, and they don't always do it alone, and neither do you.
Whether you're launching your own startup or you're already running a grown company, you need to learn to ask for help as that's a sign of strength, not weakness. Gaining the right guidance at the right time saves you money, countless headaches, and a lot more time than you think. If you're seeking help with your online presence, for example, a digital marketing agency can help. If you're seeking help with your finances, then outsourcing everything to an accountant can also work. Here are some places where you can turn for business advice as you need it.
Most people don't actually know that these exist, but small business development centres offer free or low cost consulting and training to entrepreneurs across the US. These centres are often affiliated with universities and supported by the Small Business Administration. They provide expert advice on writing business plans, accessing capital, developing marketing strategies and managing operations, and most of these services are either free or very affordable.
A non profit organization that connects business owners with volunteer mentors. SCORE can help you whether you are launching or you're marketing a product or you're managing staff. SCORE Mentors are available to give you guidance for free and they offer one-on-one mentoring, online workshops and business templates. Their website also features a robust library of resources and tools for every stage of business growth.
Your local Chamber of Commerce can be a goldmine for networking and resources. The chambers often host workshops, panel discussions and meetups where business owners share their insights and support one another. They also are great for advocating for small business interests and can help you to stay in the loop with local regulations and opportunities. There are many chambers out there that offer direct support or can connect you with regional advisors who understand your business environment. Joining a business chamber like this is not only practical, it's a smart move.
Online forums and business communities offer quick and diverse perspectives from fellow entrepreneurs and industry professionals. There are platforms out there like Reddit, Indie Hackers, and even Facebook groups that offer spaces to discuss what you need to discuss and ask questions in your business. You can Crowdsource the solutions that you need, but the key is to find communities that are well moderated and active. Don't hesitate to ask questions. Many business owners are eager to share their experiences and lessons learned.
Almost every industry has a professional association that offers resources, events and peer support. These organisations often host webinars, conferences and training programs that are tailored to your field.
If you are a startup or an early stage company, you should consider applying to a business incubator or accelerator. These programs provide mentorship, access to investors, office space, and hands on training to help grow your business quickly and efficiently. Incubators focus more on nurturing ideas and providing that foundational support that you need, but the accelerators are designed for growth.
Sometimes the best help that you can get for your business is from a professional who specialises in solving your problem. Whether it's website development, HR policies or bookkeeping, hiring a consultant or a fleet freelancer can give you expert input without the cost of a full time employee. Just make sure that you vet your candidates carefully, check portfolios and communicate your expectations clearly.
Believe it or not, co-working spaces are about so much more than just shared desks. It's a hub of innovation and collaboration and it gives you a chance to speak directly to other entrepreneurs and creatives. Being surrounded by like minded professionals, even if they're not specifically in your industry, can spark new ideas and create opportunities for collaboration and partnerships, or even informal mentorship.
YouTube has grown more popular for a good reason. Sometimes you just need fresh insights or inspiration from those who have been there before. Business focused podcasts and YouTube channels are a great way to learn on the go. While these aren't direct lines of help, they can help you to shape your thinking and answer common questions you've been looking for. You could also be exposed to new strategies as a result.
Don't underestimate the power of your personal and professional network. Whether it's friends, family, former colleagues, or alumni connections, chances are someone you know has useful experience or knows someone who does. LinkedIn, for example, is a great tool.
No business owner succeeds on their own, and whether you're facing a new challenge in your business or you're planning your growth move, there are many places that you contend for help. Remember, while some issues can be solved with a little advice, others might require hands-on expertise. For example, if you're looking to grow your online presence, a digital marketing agency can step in and give you the support that you need. Help is always at hand for those who look for it - you just have to be willing to ask for it as it’s needed!
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