The Minnesota Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides professional assistance and guidance to new and existing small businesses. A statewide network of Small Business Development Centers provide the professional expertise and guidance that every small business owner needs to flourish in today's competitive and ever-changing business world. Operating through a network of nine statewide regional centers, the SBCD offers confidential consulting to help clients identify, understand and overcome the challenges of running a successful business. SBDC counselors have significant experience in the private sector, including extensive management and financial consulting backgrounds. Many SBDCs also use qualified faculty, students and volunteers to enhance their counseling services. Check the link above for locations and office hours. There are also many useful links for entrepreneurs looking for information to help make their business even more successful.

Score is a non-profit organization of volunteers who provide one-on-one counseling to small businesses. The website also contains lots of useful templates for business plans, financial projections and other valuable business tools. If you would like counseling, mentoring, or just a sounding board, they have an excellent group of experienced, knowledgeable business people who would be pleased to work with you for free. In the Park Rapids area contact: 218-732-2259 or email: [email protected]

The U.S. Small Business Administration provides loans, loan guarantees, counseling and other forms of assistance to small businesses. This website also has an abundance of resources for small businesses. A must site to visit if you are considering starting a business or want tips on how to expand your business and what type of financial resources might be available.