Marin SBDCSan Rafael, CA
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Who We Are

The Marin Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a nonprofit organization that provides expert no-cost advising and low cost workshops to guide small businesses to success and accomplishment.

As part of the Northern California SBDC network, the Marin SBDC serves all of Marin County and is currently hosted by Dominican University of California. We work hands-on with entrepreneurs and business owners to address challenges, seize opportunities and grow our client’s bottom line. 

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New Business

The SBDC Can Get You Started:

  • Deciding – In person and online “First Step” courses help explore if opening a new business or buying an existing business or franchise is right for you.
  • Moving Forward – SBDC consultants provide guidance on all aspects of your business launch, including your business plan, feasibility and financial analyses.
  • Acquiring Capital – Receive referrals to investors and banks, review financial management practices, and discuss loan package preparation.
  • Gaining Market Research – Utilize SBDC research tools to obtain market reports, financial models and industry meters to help launch your business.
  • Targeting Your Market – Refine your industry analysis, identify your customer base and research your competitors.
  • Certifying Your Business – Learn what opportunities are available to women, minority, or veteran-owned businesses along with certification requirements.
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Growth

Growing a business involves multiple steps ranging from selecting a location, determining a marketing strategy, analyzing cash flow implications and obtaining financing. The Marin SBDC can assist you by conducting customized research for your business on a specific target geographic area or comparing market potential among different areas. This market research will not only be used to make better business decisions, it can also be used to demonstrate to a potential lender that your plans are reasonable as you seek financing. In addition, Marin SBDC staff can assist you in determining cash needs and developing your loan proposal and monthly financial projections.

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Continuity & Survival

Starting a business is difficult work. But keeping it healthy and making sure it is sustainable in the long-term requires new ways of thinking. The Marin SBDC continuity & survival services available to small businesses include confidential consulting on topics such as:

  • Creating, updating and refining business continuity plans
  • Acquiring capital, before and after the event
  • Using cloud-based alternatives for critical business operations, tools and infrastructure
  • Developing mobile-ready strategies to prepare for employees working off-site when needed
  • Expanding strategically through new markets online, abroad or with the government
  • Finding ways to maintain connectivity during a business disruption
  • Building an online presence including eCommerce to diversify sales streams
  • Reviewing ways to optimize online performance through SEO and other website enhancements
  • Discussing all available resources to your business including local, state and federal partners who provide disaster loans, disaster training and much more

The SBDC network has the experience and an excellent track record in responding across the state to help communities and businesses negatively impacted by external forces, such as natural disasters or economic dislocations.  Contact your local SBDC today to see how your business can overcome setbacks from previous disasters and learn how you can prepare for future business disruptions

Apply Now

It all starts here. Complete the application and submit your request. A member of the SBDC will follow up with you and help you achieve your small business goals -- at no cost to you.
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Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA or HSU Sponsored Programs Foundation.