The Whittemore School of Business and Economics has helped to expand opportunities for small businesses looking to increase their knowledge in the areas of manufacturing assistance, environmental compliance, and economic and technology development, through the New Hampshire Small Business Development Center (NH SBDC).
According to Mary Collins, state director of the program, the NH SBDC is an outreach program of UNH's Whittemore School of Business and Economics and is supported by a partnership program with the US Small Business Administration, the New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development (DRED), and the private sector, all of which provide sources of funding for the center.
The NH SBDC has launched the online course "Starting a Business in New Hampshire," one of more than 20 free online courses that are available to entrepreneurs. NH SBDC's main goal is to reach as many New Hampshire entrepreneurs throughout the state as possible and to provide them with timely information and tools on a daily basis, using SBDCs e-Learning courses.
"We have 22 courses up and running," said Collins. "They cover three tracks - Finance, Business Planning and Marketing. They all have a similar look, have voiceover, links and can be bookmarked if not completed at one time."
According to the NH SBDC's website, more than 39,000 entrepreneurs representing 18,000 businesses have been helped by this program since 1984. The NHSBDC serves a broad range of businesses, ranging from those who are thinking about starting a business, to very early-stage companies, to firms that have been in business many years. Over half of NH SBDC clients are already in business at the time they approach the SBDC for assistance. Thanks to sponsors, there is no charge for individuals who are taking the course.
"The Starting your Business in New Hampshire course was produced by the NH SBDC was vetted through our advisory board, staff and partners and offers current, timely information," said Collins. "We license the other 21 courses. We will soon be launching a second New Hampshire specific course - Financing your Business in New Hampshire."
For Collins, the ultimate goal of the courses is to provide NH entrepreneurs with critical tools and resources needed to manage and run successful businesses.
"SBDC's target market are businesses that have the intent to grow and contribute to the NH economy," said Collins. "Taking this course will assist the entrepreneur in finding necessary information in one location as well as helping them build a strong knowledge base and foundation for running and sustaining their business in New Hampshire."
Currently the program is undergoing some initial success.
"Since we rolled out e-Learning 15 months ago more than 1600 courses have been taken throughout New Hampshire and more around the U.S. and world," said Collins. "After we launched Starting your Business in New Hampshire two weeks ago more than 80 courses have been taken- 47 were Starting your Business in New Hampshire. SBDC's e-Learning, OnLine AnyTime 24/7 is truly a success!"
However, in light of the recent recession, inevitable doubts may factor into a business entrepreneur's mind.
"I'm sure they have reservations; however, entrepreneurs are risk takers," said Collins. "This course will definitely help someone who may just be thinking about starting a business or someone who is already underway or in business."
"It is crucial at this time in the economy to seek all the help available-while there are many pitfalls (access to capital, credit, market share, knowledge of your competitors etc.), there are also numerous opportunities in our global marketplace," said Collins.
According to SBA/SBDC national economist Dr. James Chrisman, after five years, 80 percent of SBDC counseled businesses are still in business. This contrasts with the 44 percent survival rate of non-assisted businesses.
"I am a strong proponent of acquiring all information available as well as access to resources to ensure a successful launch or continuation of your business venture," said Collins. "SBDC's e-Learning is designed for entrepreneurial access 24/7-from your home, office, the beach or the mountains all you have to do is click www.nhsbdc.org<http://www.nhsbdc.org> and small business information and education is at your fingertips!"
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