Resources

Located in the Marion Public Library, the Business Resource Center provides a resource of business reference materials, computers, Internet access, and computer software to help with every aspect of starting or expanding a small business.

Our Business Resource Center offers a reference library addressing a wide array of business issues, including Entrepreneur Magazine's Start-Up Guides. The Business Guides are designed to give clients the help, information, and guidance needed to make their dreams a reality. Step-by-step instruction, how-to lists and hands-on worksheets guide clients through every aspect of the start-up process. Choose from over 20 guides covering such subjects as Home Inspection Services, Sales & Marketing, Bridal Consulting, Child Care Services, Starting & Running a Home-Based Business, and many others. Additionally, a video library addressing many of the business planning and marketing concerns is available through this unit.

In addition to the computer workstations, clients have access to reference materials, computer databases, text books, on-line information exchange, start-up guides, periodicals and brochures, computer tutorials and video tapes.

Looking for Funds to Start a Business, or Need Funds to Help Your Business Grow?

If you are located in Grant County, then look no further! Small businesses needing small-scale financing and technical assistance for start-up can apply to obtain Microloan Funding at Affordable Housing & Community Development Corporation. Here are some of the basics of the loan program:

  • Who Qualifies? Most small or start-up businesses located in Grant County qualify. Members of minority groups, women, low income individuals and veterans are encouraged to apply.
  • Average Loan Size? $500 to $10,000 on average, although larger amounts may be considered.
  • Use of Loan Proceeds? You may use the loan for the purchase of business equipment such as machinery, fixtures, or furniture...the purchase of business supplies and materials...inventory...or working capital.

The Grant County Economic Growth Council Revolving Loan Fund is another avenue. In 2010, the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development presented a $75,000 USDA Rural Business Enterprise Grant to the Grant County Economic Growth Council Wednesday. The Grant will go towards the Growth Council's Revolving Loan Fund for local businesses, which was started in '08 through the USDA's previous RBEG grant of $100,000. To see if you are eligible for the fund, download the 2010 GCEGC RLF pdf.

Learn more about the various loan products available.
 SCORE Counselors to America's Small Business

Marion Grant County Chamber of Commerce and the Growth Council Team has an outstanding component of volunteers in the role of SCORE Counselors willing to assist with entrepreneurs who are either starting a new business or have a business, but are looking for ways to improve their performance. The SCORE Team works with both for profit and not for profit organizations.