Entrepreneurship & Small Business Development

In Adair and Guthrie counties, Midwest Partnership supports entrepreneurs to start-up and expand by linking them to relevant resources and programs for success. Midwest Partnership has partnerships with several resources to help connect entrepreneurs and small business owners to the right resources and programs to create the best opportunity for success.

Iowa Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) provide free, confidential, customized, professional business advice to entrepreneurs and existing businesses with 500 employees or less. They also present affordable workshops that teach practical skills and techniques, conduct research, provide comprehensive information services, and offer access to subject matter experts in a variety of fields. Regional Centers include Fort Dodge (Guthrie County) and Creston (Adair County).

HUB712 in Carroll (Guthrie county) supports small businesses and entrepreneurs by offering a collaborative co-working space, business incubation services, and access to mentorship and coaching. It hosts networking events and workshops to connect entrepreneurs with local business leaders and potential partners. Additionally, HUB712 provides educational resources and training programs on various aspects of business development, fostering a supportive community to help startups and small businesses thrive.

The Iowa Farm Bureau has an innovative program called Renew Rural Iowa. This program is designed to help increase the enterprise value of new and existing businesses in Iowa’s small towns through a program of business education, mentoring, and the financial resources to help businesses grow. By bringing together seasoned business experts and critical resources at each seminar, business owners can tap into an array of services.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) supports small businesses and entrepreneurs by offering access to capital through loan guarantees, providing free or low-cost business counseling and training via Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), SCORE, and Women’s Business Centers (WBCs), and facilitating access to federal contracts. It also advocates for small business interests at the federal level, and offers export assistance for businesses aiming to enter international markets. Additionally, the SBA connects entrepreneurs with a network of mentors and professionals to aid in business growth and development.

US Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development agency (USDA) offers financing for business startup or expansions, loans and grants for creating or saving jobs in rural areas, financing for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements, and partnerships with community organizations to encourage business startups and capital investments.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) supports small businesses and entrepreneurs by offering financial incentives such as grants, loans, and tax credits to aid in starting and expanding operations. It provides business development resources, workforce training, and assistance with site selection and location. Additionally, the IEDA promotes economic and community development through infrastructure projects and revitalization efforts.

IASourceLink helps small businesses and entrepreneurs by serving as a comprehensive online resource that connects them with over 320 resource providers across Iowa. It offers a centralized platform for finding information on business development services, funding opportunities, and networking events. IASourceLink provides access to tools and resources for business planning, growth, and management, facilitating connections with local experts, mentors, and support organizations. By streamlining access to a wide range of resources, IASourceLink aids entrepreneurs in navigating the complexities of starting and growing a business.

The University of Northern Iowa Business & Community Services (UNI BCS) aids small businesses and entrepreneurs by offering a range of support services. They provide business consulting and advisory services, including assistance with business planning, financial management, and marketing strategies. UNI BCS also offers educational programs and workshops to enhance entrepreneurial skills and knowledge. Through its various centers and initiatives, such as the UNI Regional Business Center, UNI BCS connects businesses with resources and networking opportunities, and facilitates access to research and development services

The U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) supports small businesses and entrepreneurs by providing grants for infrastructure, planning, and business growth projects, as well as technical assistance for strategic development and implementation. It fosters innovation and entrepreneurship through programs that promote technology commercialization and support startups. The EDA also strengthens regional economies by investing in projects that enhance competitiveness and job creation, and offers disaster recovery assistance to help businesses rebuild after natural disasters. Overall, the EDA aims to create favorable conditions for business growth and regional economic development.

SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. SCORE has been helping small business owners for over fifty years. Because their work is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and by a network of 11,000+ volunteers, they are able to deliver their services at no charge or at very low cost.