Getting Started

Steps to Working with the Iowa Western SBDC

1. Call a Counselor at the Iowa Western SBDC to discuss needs and expectations. Ph: 712-325-3350.
   
2. If you are a business start-up in the beginning stages of development, a Smart Start Workshop will be reccommended. Smart Start workshops (link to calendar) go over the basic fundamentals of business planning and business set-up. These workshops will maximize the one one one counseling experience with the SBDC counselor
   
3. Prior to your appointment fill out a Request For Counseling Form. Forms are availble in both microsoft word and Adobe formats. You can also request a form to be faxed or mailed to you by calling the center at 712-325-3350.
   • RFC form
4. Prior to your appointment complete a partial business plan or the Business Planning Guide complete with startup costs, a list of assets, monthly business expenses and an estimation of sales per month. Or complete a Smart Start Class. Smart Start are 2 hour small business training courses that will be offered weekly in Council Bluffs and other locations beginning in early summer of 2004.
   • Business Plan Inventory
   • Business Start-Up Guide