SBDC FAQ's
Q: What is the Iowa Western Small Business Development Center?
A: The Iowa Western SBDC provides counseling, training and technical assistance in all areas of small business management. Through one-on-one counseling and classroom sessions, the SBDC assists small businesses with financial, marketing, organization and planning.
Q: Who pays for the SBDC program?
A: The Iowa Western SBDC is part of a statewide network of colleges and universities that joint venture with the federal and state governments, including the US Small Business Administration, to provide financial support for the centers. Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs, Iowa and Southwest Community College in Creston, Iowa are the hosts of our SBDC. This support allows the center to provide consulting services free-of-charge to starting and expanding small businesses who cannot afford the services of a private consultant. There is a nominal charge for classroom training.
Q: Where are you located and what are your hours?
A: The Iowa Western SBDC is located at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs Iowa. Office hours are generally 8:00AM to 5:00PM, Monday through Friday. The Director frequently travels throughout the district, however, and appointments can be arranged at your business. Please call us at (712-325-3350 to arrange a meeting.
Q: I opened my business a few years ago. Can the SBDC help me?
A: The SBDC provides an array of services to established businesses, including consulting in business planning, marketing, financial analysis, accounting and preparation of loan application packages. These services are available to any business falling within the federal guidelines for a small business which generally is 500 employees or less, and a maximum of $10 million in annual sales.
Q: Why do I need a business plan?
A: A business plan is the roadmap to success for your business. It will contain a description of the history and development of your business, an explanation of the products and services you offer, an analysis of your market and marketing strategy, your management team and your financial projections. If you need financing, you will almost certainly need one, but all small businesses, regardless of size, should have a business plan. Plans don't have to be complex, but they force you, as a business owner, to systematically think through and plan your business, understand your market, and organize!
Q: How do I arrange for a consulting session?
A: If you are a start-up business, we suggest that you complete the "Smart Start Workshop" class prior to counseling, or get a head start on your plan by completing the Business Plan Inventory. Counseling sessions are more valuable if you have started work on your plan and have a draft copy available for the consultant to review. If you are an existing business, just call the center and speak with the Director regarding your needs. SBDC does not place a limit on the number of sessions a client can request. Each client and situation is unique. Assistance is available to you as long as it is required.
Q: Can I get a loan at the SBDC?
A: The SBDC is not a lender. In order to secure financing, you must work with a bank of your choosing. The SBDC will, however, work with you and your banker to assist you in preparing SBA loan applications, formulating your business plan and providing whatever technical assistance may be necessary to help you secure financing.
Q: What grants are available to new business owners?
A: The U.S. Small Business Administration does not offer grants to start or expand small businesses, although it does offer a wide variety of loan programs. There are also other loan/grant programs available through State and national resources. Grants are generally intended to benefit humanitarian efforts of non-profit organizations and companies. In most cases grants are not to enrich an individual or individual business. Free business counseling through the SBDC is the only "gift" you should expect in opening your new business.