Starting a small business, irrespective of the enterprise model, involves extensive research, thorough planning, acquiring necessary resources, and leveraging tools to optimize efficiency. Small business owners will require various resources to establish, run, and develop their organizations. The resource list is endless, and an entrepreneur may struggle to go through it all. Instead, based on their business needs, they could choose from several free resources available online to fast-track their organization to success.
1. Marketing and branding resources
A small local business or an e-commerce company will require some form of marketing as a communication strategy. The best marketing tools for small business management can help any organization establish its brand identity, attract customers, and build positive, lasting relationships.
a) Website builders
A business will require a website—even a single page—to explain its key offerings and list its address. The website is a business asset that its owner can control. One could build a custom website by hiring a developer or using a website builder to create one using available templates. Some top website builders include Solo Build It!, GoDaddy, Weebly, and Wix.
b) E-commerce integrations
If an entrepreneur plans to sell their services or products, they would require an e-commerce store. There are many platforms that one can integrate their website with, such as Etsy. Alternatively, the entrepreneur can create a personalized online store using e-commerce solutions like Shopify, Squarespace, and Woocommerce.
c) Content marketing tools
A business must be noticed by potential buyers in order to sell products and services. That’s where content marketing tools come in. A small business owner must ensure their website has well-written and informative content that provides value and solves problems for the target audience. Jasper is a top-rated AI tool for small businesses that help create top-quality content quickly. Software like Grammarly and Hemingway can help edit the articles to maintain quality.
d) SEO optimizers
A website must leverage search engine optimization tools to maximize search engine visibility and lure organic traffic. Such tools can help create content that appears on Google when users look for specific information related to the topic. Tools like SEMrush can help provide keyword and competition research and marketing insights, while platforms such as Clearscope create outlines for articles focused on what audiences require.
e) Social media management software
Aspiring entrepreneurs can use social media to create an online community and attract potential buyers to their products and services. One can use a suite of tools to schedule social media posts and platforms. It could save time and ensure consistent engagement. Some top tools for creating and scheduling social media posts include Hootsuite, Later, Buffer, and Social Bee.
f) Email marketing tools
This marketing technique is one of the most effective ways to engage customers. With the help of a CRM system like Mailchimp or Hubspot, entrepreneurs can send newsletters, business updates, and exclusive offers.
g) Business Listings
A free listing on search engines will help prospective and existing customers find the business. Entrepreneurs can register their businesses for free through a compatible mobile or desktop app, which will eventually help them appear in more local search results.
2. Financial resources for small businesses
Having accounts in place will ensure one is paying back quarterly taxes or filing the correct paperwork. The process also gives one less work to complete at the backend and ensures everything is by the book during an audit.
a) IRS Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center
The IRS has developed an online resource center to streamline the tax filing process for small business owners. They also offer other resources for taxpayers, including small business owners with assets under $10 Mn and those who file a Form 1040 with Schedules C, E, or F or Form 2106, including details on how to file them, contractor details, and stages of owning a business, employment taxes, employer ID numbers, and recordkeeping.
b) QuickBooks Pro
This user-friendly software is designed for businesses of all sizes and stages. QuickBooks Pro offers features like inventory management, mileage tracking (to calculate miles driven and vehicle expenses for work-related purposes), and payroll services. One can also use the 30-day trial period to gauge if the software is worth the investment.
3) Education and Community Development Resources
In addition to the resources above, an entrepreneur should continue their learning journey to stay updated with industry trends and practices. There are various tools to help with this, including Masterclass, HarvardX, and Linkedin Learning.
4) Other essential resources
a) The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
The SBA is a federal agency that provides various resources for small business owners to work toward success. Some highlights include business training and counseling, funding programs, and business development programs. One could also learn about other topics like calculating business costs, applying for licensing and permits, managing finances, and writing business plans.
b) Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)
These resources offer free as well as affordable counseling and training. SBDC programs deliver high-quality, professional, individualized business advising and technical assistance to those who are starting a business or looking to grow an existing one.
c) SCORE
This nonprofit organization focuses on providing free mentoring for new and established businesses. SCORE connects small business owners with expert mentors who organize webinars, local workshops, and other online resources to help entrepreneurs develop useful strategies and overcome hurdles in their business journey.