The Service Tree lists all services in "branched" groups, starting with the very general and moving to the very specific. Click on the name of any group name to see the sub-groups available within it. Click on a service code to see its details and the providers who offer that service.
Business Assistance Services
Programs that provide specialized consultations for businesses in key areas such as start-up, finance, management, marketing, tourism and technical assessment to enhance overall effectiveness and growth. Services may include review of business plans, financial statements, and projections together with financial analysis and advice, as required; or information in response to straightforward questions. Organizing community groups to undertake projects, and arranging funding partners for these projects may also be key components. Included are face-to-face consultations which may involve multiple in-depth sessions and consultations via the telephone during which specific business-related questions are answered.
Programs that provide intensive training in business management skills for individuals who want to start their own business or who are operating a fledgling business. The training addresses topics such as how to establish a business, how to obtain necessary permits and licenses, how to arrange for insurance coverage, how to write a business plan, and how to run a successful business. Entrepreneurship is the process of creating a business idea and turning it into a thriving enterprise.
Programs that enable firms to expand their market area and possibly extend the life cycle of products or services that have exhausted their existing markets by helping them explore, develop and implement an export marketing plan. Exporting can contribute to a firm's sales volume and create new jobs for the local economy. Services may include information about the export process, potential opportunities (such as agents and distributors), patent, copyright, and intellectual property right regulations, technical assistance and financing programs, and country-specific information related to exporting. Businesses become aware of exporting in general, determine whether to make an initial investment, identify marketing opportunities and assess competitive challenges.
Government Contract Procurement Assistance
Programs that provide technical assistance and information regarding the contracting process for businesses that would like to sell goods and/or services to the government. Support may include orientation to the procurement system, bid preparation assistance, placement on government vendor lists and a wide variety of information about current bidding opportunities, the specific requirements for entering a particular bid and previous contract award results.