Austin’s entrepreneurial ecosystem combines Texas tradition with innovative spirit. Whether you’re launching a tech startup in Downtown, opening a food truck on South Congress, or growing a service business in Round Rock, Austin’s network of small business resources stands ready to fuel your success.
Core Support Organizations
- Free consulting services
- Business plan development
- Financial planning assistance
- Location: 2006 East 4th Street, Austin, Texas 78702
- Contact: 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000
- Business training programs
- Educational events
- One-on-one coaching
- BizAid Business Orientation
- Contact: 512-974-7800
- Networking events
- Business advocacy
- Economic development resources
- Small Business Impact Program
- Location: 535 East 5th Street, Austin, TX 78701
- Contact: (512) 478-9383
- Minority-owned business certification
- Women-owned business certification
- Procurement assistance
- Technical support
Key Programs and Services
- Free introductory classes
- Resource overview
- Startup guidance
- Registration through City of Austin
- Training services
- One-on-one assistance
- Small business loans
- Focus on underserved entrepreneurs
Financial Resources and Business Development in Austin
Financial Resources
- Austin Small Business Lending Programs
- PeopleFund
- Microloans up to $50,000
- Small business loans up to $500,000
- Special programs for veterans and women
- Contact: 888-222-0017
- BCL of Texas
- Business loans from $5,000 to $300,000
- Real estate financing
- Credit building programs
- Financial education
- Contact: 512-912-9884
- City of Austin Small Business Grants
- Heritage Tourism Grants
- Creative Space Assistance Program
- Music Venue Assistance Program
- Austin Economic Development Grants
- Business Expansion Program
- Relocation Assistance
- Job Creation Grants
Business Development Resources
- Accelerator Programs
- Capital Factory
- Tech startup focus
- Mentorship program
- Coworking space
- Investor connections
- SKU (Consumer Products Accelerator)
- CPG focus
- 12-week program
- Mentor network
- Industry connections
- Incubators and Coworking Spaces
- WeWork Austin
- Multiple locations
- Flexible workspace
- Networking events
- Business services
- Impact Hub Austin
- Social impact focus
- Community events
- Mentorship opportunities
- Two Austin locations
Industry-Specific Support
- Tech Startups
- Austin Technology Council
- Industry advocacy
- Peer groups
- Technical training
- Networking events
- Food and Beverage
- Austin Food & Wine Alliance
- Grant programs
- Industry education
- Networking events
- Culinary innovation support
- Creative Industries
- Austin Creative Alliance
- Artist resources
- Business development
- Marketing support
- Grant opportunities
Networking, Legal Resources, and Specialized Programs in Austin
Networking Organizations
- Industry-Specific Chambers
- Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce
- LGBTBE Certification
- Monthly mixers
- Business advocacy
- Mentorship programs
- Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce
- Project Rebuild Grant Program ($3,000 grants)
- Technical assistance
- Cultural business connections
- Market expansion support
- Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
- Hispanic Business Research
- Leadership development
- Procurement assistance
- Networking events
- Professional Networks
- Austin Young Chamber
- Under-40 focus
- Leadership programs
- FAVE Awards
- Monthly meetups
- Future Front Texas
- Women entrepreneur focus
- Monthly meetups
- Mentorship programs
- Resource sharing
Legal and Regulatory Support
- Free Legal Resources
- Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
- Business law clinics
- Contract review
- Legal workshops
- By appointment
- Austin Bar Association
- Legal referral service
- Pro bono programs
- Monthly clinics
- Educational events
- Regulatory Assistance
- Development Services Department
- Permit assistance
- Zoning guidance
- Building requirements
- Safety compliance
Specialized Programs
- Veteran Business Support
- Veteran Entrepreneur Program
- Veteran Verification Letters and Veteran-Owned Business Logo
- Assistance with Business Plans and Financing Your Business
- Marketing Research and Strategies
- Connections to specialists for business partner referrals
- Outreach to resources like SBA, SCORE, and SBDC for veteran entrepreneurs
- Minority Business Development
- Texas Association of African American Chambers
- Certification assistance
- Government contracting
- Business development
- Advocacy
- Sustainable Business Initiatives
- Austin Green Business Leaders Program
- Sustainability assessment
- Resource efficiency
- Recognition program
- Networking events
Educational Resources
- University Programs
- UT Austin McCombs School of Business
- Texas Venture Labs
- Entrepreneurship courses
- Student consulting
- Research resources
- Community College Programs
- Austin Community College
- Business Skills Courses
- Continuing Education
- Professional Certification
- Small Business Development
Technology Resources
- Digital Support
- Google Fiber Space
- Free workshops
- Digital skills training
- Tech mentorship
- Community events
- Write Wing Media
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- Innovation Centers
- Austin’s Innovation District
- Research partnerships
- Tech transfer
- Startup support
- Innovation workshops
FAQs
What business resources are available for small business owners in Austin?
Austin offers a wealth of resources for small business owners, including the Small Business Administration (SBA) office, City of Austin Small Business Program, and various non-profit organizations. These provide funding opportunities, mentorship, training, and networking events to help you start and grow your business in Texas.
How can the Small Business Administration help my startup in Austin?
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers numerous services to help startups in Austin, including loan programs, business counseling, and educational resources. They can assist with business planning, funding options, and connecting you with relevant resources and contacts to help your venture succeed.
Are there any Texas state-specific resources for small businesses?
Yes, Texas offers several state-specific resources for small businesses. The Texas Economic Development office provides information on taxes, licensing, and workforce development. Additionally, the Texas State Small Business Development Center Network offers free business advising and low-cost training services to help you start or expand your business in Texas.
What financial assistance is available for small business owners in Travis County?
Travis County offers various financial assistance programs for small business owners, including grants, loans, and tax incentives. The county works with local banks, credit unions, and community development organizations to provide funding options. Additionally, the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department offers programs to help small businesses access capital and grow their ventures.
How can I find information about tax requirements for my small business from the IRS?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides comprehensive information for small business owners on their website. You can find resources on tax filing requirements, deductions, and credits specific to small businesses. The IRS also offers free webinars and workshops to help you understand your tax obligations as a business owner in Texas.
What resources are available to help small business owners recover from the impact of COVID-19?
Several resources are available to help small business owners recover from COVID-19. The SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and other relief programs. The City of Austin provides information on local assistance programs through austintexas.gov. Additionally, non-profit organizations and community development groups offer support and guidance for businesses affected by the pandemic.
How can I connect with other entrepreneurs and small business owners in Austin?
Austin has a vibrant entrepreneurial community with numerous networking opportunities. You can join local chambers of commerce, attend events hosted by startup incubators, or participate in programs offered by the City of Austin’s Small Business Program. Additionally, online platforms and social media groups dedicated to Austin’s business community can help you connect with fellow entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Are there any specific resources for women, minority, or veteran-owned businesses in Austin?
Yes, Austin offers specialized resources for diverse business owners. The Texas State MWBE (Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise) Program provides certification and support. The SBA’s Office of Veterans Business Development offers resources for veteran entrepreneurs. Additionally, local non-profit organizations focus on empowering women, minority, and veteran business owners through mentorship, training, and networking opportunities.
