Special Topics

What kinds of assistance does the WV SBDC provide?

We offer free one-on-one business coaching services, which enable businesses owners to expand their companies, solve problems, improve management, develop new ideas for products or services, or investigate new business opportunities.

We help the inexperienced businessperson to understand the requirements for going into business, assess business opportunities, determine financial needs and potential sources of financing, and offer guidelines on business planning and marketing.

One important aspect of WV SBDC assistance is that we don't actually do things for you so much as we try to equip you with information and resources to do things for yourself.

Does the WV SBDC provide financing?

The WV SBDC does not provide financing. Our assistance is technical and educational in nature.

The WV SBDC can help you identify what financing you may need and discuss alternative sources. We can also advise you how to improve a loan application and business plan. We work with banks and other lending agencies and organizations to assist in putting together financial projections, but the actual financing comes from outside sources.

What does it cost to use the services of the WV SBDC?

The services of the WV SBDC are provided at no charge thanks to the support of the Small Business Administration and our local fiscal supporters. Nominal fees are often charged for training workshops.

How can I get assistance from the WV SBDC?

There are several ways to take advantage of WV SBDC resources.

This website has a wealth of information to assist you and answer questions. Take some time to scroll through the Resources pages, and review the Training Calendar.

If you are starting a business, consider attending one of our Business Fundamentals workshops. There you will learn about the start-up process, important considerations and decisions you should make before you start, the various regulations and registrations, and the fundamentals of a business plan.

If you are already in business and would like one-on-one business coaching, contact us to set an appointment. We'll ask that you complete an intake questionnaire. We'll also suggest you bring financial information, marketing materials, etc. to our meeting to help us better understand your business.

Can the WV SBDC recommend the best business for me to start?

Our experience shows that successful entrepreneurs usually have a solid understanding of their new ventures. This means that they or members of their management team have operated a similar business before, or that they have unique skills and contacts that enable success.

We don't believe it is a good idea to simply pick a business from somebody's list of "Best Businesses to Start." Rather than suggest a business to you, we encourage you to evaluate your experiences, unique skills and strengths, location and what you think you'll be most happy doing.

What can I expect from a meeting with a business coach?

The business coach will ask pertinent questions, listen to your needs and tailor the session around your specific experience and concerns. You will leave your first meeting with a list of to-do items to start you on your way!

Client Services - What to Expect (PDF)

Is there a limit on how many times I can see a business coach?

You can see the business coach as often as you need. If you find that you have all the information after one meeting, that's okay. But, if you need ongoing help or support, the business coach is more than happy to do that, too.

Who funds the WV SBDC?

All WV SBDCs are supported by a mix of federal funds from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and matching funds from local hosts and support agencies. The WV SBDC is one of four divisions of the West Virginia Development Office, the state's lead economic development agency.