As I drive through my district, I pass family owned tacquerias, barber shops, printing businesses, and child care centers.  I'm reminded daily that "Mom and Pop shops" form the heart of our community.  In fact, in Texas nearly half of workers employed outside of the farming sector are employed by small businesses. I'm working to ensure that your state government does more to support entrepreneurs.  I also wanted to share some local nonprofit resources that may be of help to those of you who are starting or expanding a businesses.

Technical Assistance:

The City of San Antonio Small Business Program: www.sanantonio.gov/edd/small_business/sb_index.asp  

This program assists entrepreneurs and existing businesses with a range of services including information on licensing, and regulations, advise on competing for government contracts, sources of capital, and development of business and marketing plans.  Follow this link to a calendar of upcoming events.

Institute for Economic Development: www.iedtexas.org

The Institute for Economic Development (IED) provides ongoing consulting, training, technical, research and information services, in tandem with University-based assets and resources, and other state, federal and local agencies, to facilitate economic, community, and business development throughout South Texas and the Border Region. Visit their website for a calendar of upcoming events.

SCORE - San Antonio: www.sanantonioscore.org

SCORE, the Service Corps of Retired Executives, is a nonprofit organization providing free business counseling to individuals considering starting their own business and small business owners.  Known as "Counselors to America's Small Business", these volunteers provide face-to-face and online counseling as well as free and low-cost workshops.  Visit their website for a list of upcoming workshops.

Sources of Capital:

ACCION Texas:  www.acciontexas.org

The mission of ACCION Texas is to provide credit to small businesses that do not have access to loans from commercial sources. Through loans and services, ACCION Texas helps micro-entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses, stabilize and increase their incomes, create additional employment and contribute to the economic revitalization of their communities.

Community Development Loan Fund: www.cdlf.net

The Community Development Loan Fund (CDLF) is an alternative funding source committed to promoting economic development for small business, non-profits and underserved areas.

South Texas Business Fund: www.sotexbizfund.com

The South Texas Business Fund is a self-sustaining resource of the city of San Antonio that provides loans to small businesses.