Small Business

In no other time has technology made it easier for us to do business, communicate and grow on such an efficient and far reaching scale. The web, email marketing, social media, plug-ins and apps allow us to market and conduct business easier than ever before. However, some small business owners are still reluctant to start or expand their business. The resources, tools and assistance available for small businesses and entrepreneurs is plentiful. This page will help provide resources for small businesses and access to tools that may be valuable, or you can visit the BUSINESS.IDAHO.GOV Website .

RESOURCES

Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

We encourage you to contact one of the Idaho Small Business Development Centers to begin your planning process or help your business grow. The Idaho SBDC is a statewide, university-based organization which has been helping small businesses succeed since 1986. SBDC consultants will provide guidance in developing and growing a successful business. Idaho SBDC consulting is available to anyone interested in expanding or starting a private small business in Idaho at no cost. There are three (3) locations available in our region.

To learn more about the Idaho SBDC resources, visit the Idaho SBDC website.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

The U.S. Small Business Administration provides assistance to small businesses by providing loans, loan guarantees, contracts, counseling sessions and other forms of assistance. SBA has a local district office located in Boise, however, the SBA has local economic development specialist that will meet with you locally in your community. The lead Economic Development Specialist is Irene Gonzalez. Irene Gonzalez can be reached at 208-334-1673, or email Irene Gonzalez. View a list list of SBA training.

To learn more about the Idaho SBA resources, visit the SBA website.

Zions Bank Business Resource Center

The Business Resource Center helps to businesses to find answers and resources, develop strategies, solve problems and get guidance with business, marketing, sales, financing, management, growth opportunities and more. View a list of Business Resource Training and Events in Idaho.

SCORE

SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. SCORE is the nation's largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, with more than 10,000 volunteers in 300 chapters. SCORE provides free, confidential mentoring in person, via email or by video, they provide free business tools, templates and tips, and they provide inexpensive or free business workshops (locally) and webinars (online 24/7).

To learn more about SCORE, visit the SCORE website.

Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA)

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture provides information and support for businesses in the agriculture industry. The ISDA also provides information and regulates Idaho Code in regards to agricultural animals, plants and insects, inspections, labs, pesticides, marketing, and licensing and registration.

To learn more, visit the Idaho State Department of Agriculture website.

TechHelp

TechHelp Manufacturing Specialists help Idaho manufacturers, food processors and inventors/entrepreneurs improve their competitiveness through continuous product and process innovation. Our services fall into three primary areas of practice that include:

To learn more, visit the TechHelp website.

Boise Angel Alliance

The Boise Angel Alliance helps to connect emerging companies with capital resources.

Idaho National Laboratory (INL)

Idaho National Laboratory is operated for the Department of Energy and provides unique educational, management, research and scientific assets into a world-class national laboratory.

Idaho Technology Council

The Idaho Technology Council exists to connect, inform and promote the technology companies in Idaho and is dedicated to foster the growth of technology companies in the state, primarily in the areas of information technology, agriscience, and energy.

New Ventures Lab

New Ventures Lab is a community based entrepreneurial hub in Meridian. New Ventures Lab has 14 offices and two suites for companies to rent, plus a flexible workspace, which includes tables and chairs for people just starting companies. This innovative incubator space is located in the heart of the Boise Valley - Meridian, ID.

Trailhead Boise

Located in downtown Boise, Idaho, Trailhead is a collaborative professional space that encourages gathering, connecting, and learning. Trailhead is a non-profit, community effort dedicated to developing the next generation of business successes in the Treasure Valley.