Community Resources

The Spirit of Enterprise Center is a joint venture between Arizona State University and the communities it serves. We partner with community organizations that provide services to small and growing companies. For example:

Arizona Business Connection
Learn the ABCs of small business right here. The Arizona Business Connection prides itself on being a one-stop information resource. An array of information is just a few clicks away. Visit www.azcommerce.com/webapps/SmallBusVR/intro.asp, click to virtual rep.

Arizona Employers' Council
Got serious employee problems? Talk to the folks at the Arizona Employers' Council, where members can get the latest information on human resources issues, along with any training they need. Call 602-955-7558 or 1-800-437-9262, or visit the Council on the web at www.azeci.com.

Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
If you want to do some networking, this is a place to start. The Hispanic Chamber hosts breakfasts and afternoon mixers, giving members a chance to make contacts. Many of these meetings include speakers or discussions focusing on important issues. Open to all. Call 602-279-1800, or view on the web at www.azhcc.com.

Arizona Small Business Association
Members benefit from group discount plans, networking opportunities, legislative monitoring and weekly workshops and seminars. To get the "ASBA edge", check out www.asba.com or call 602-265-4563.

Arizona Technology Council
High-technology firms and companies who provide services to them are welcome at the Arizona Software and Internet Association. The association offers mentoring, networking and guidance on financing. The association has a web site at www.aztechcouncil.org or may be reached at 480-941-8100.

ATHENA PowerLink™ Program
The ATHENA PowerLink program helps women-owned businesses grow and prosper with the help of voluntary advisors from our community. The Arizona program is a collaboration between the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and the ASU Spirit of Enterprise Center. For more information, phone Mary Lou Bessette at 480-965-1042.

Better Business Bureau
This organization offers numerous resources on starting and running a business, and protecting yourself in the process. For more information, visit http://bbb.org/.

Chandler Chamber of Commerce
The chamber, principal advocate for the business community, offers programs and services that include networking opportunities, economic forums and small business counseling. The chamber can help connect you to the power of business. Visit the website at www.chandlerchamber.com or call 480-963-4571.

City of Mesa
Information is at the fingertips of Mesa's emerging entrepreneurs. The Office of Economic Development's comprehensive "Guide to Opening and Operating a Business in Mesa" can be found at http://cityofmesa.org/economic/small_business/default.aspx For further information, please contact Tammy Albright at 480-644-3457 or email at tammy_albright@ci.mesa.az.us.

Drugs Dont Work In Arizona!
What's the biggest problem small business owners don't know they have? Seven out of ten drug users are employed. Wise business owners will consider drug-free workplace programs and policies to do what's smart for their business and good for our community. To learn about the non-profit Drugs Don't Work In Arizona! drug-free workplace initiative, call 602-248-8453.

Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce
This organization exists primarily to help African-American businesses, but accepts everyone. Included in its services are business planning, financing advice, and networking. It also serves as a conduit for cities and corporations looking for minority partners. Call 602-307-5200, or check the web at www.gpbcc.org.

Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce
This organization offers numerous programs for small businesses. Its inc.com program includes business tips, articles and practical solutions. You can make connections with other business people through networking events. A mentoring program is also offered. See the small business section at www.phoenixchamber.com, or call 602-495-6481.

Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau
The Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau is committed to marketing the metropolitan Phoenix area as a year-round convention and visitor destination. Its goal is to provide benefits that will enhance its members' business opportunities. Benefits include an electronic, confidential convention calendar, leads, networking opportunities, publications and Internet exposure. For more information, call 602-254-6500, or visit the bureau at www.phoenixcvb.com.

Self-Employment Loan Fund
If you're starting a small business, this organization provides training, technical assistance and business loans. A business plan is required. No credit check or collateral is required. The program specializes in low-income people, women and minorities, but all are welcome. Information is available on the web at www.selfloanfund.org, or by phone at 602-340-8834.

Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)
Retired volunteer business counselors provide training and counseling. Connect with them through the Arizona Small Business Administration, 602-745-7200.

Small Business Development Center
The SBDCs provide one-on-one free confidential counseling and programs for growing businesses. The SBDC is a partnership between the community colleges and the Small Business Administration. Preview the array of SBDC services at www.dist.maricopa.edu/mccdsbdc or phone the Phoenix office at 480-784-0590.

Starting a Successful Business
Don't quit your day job until you attend "Starting a Successful Business." This two-hour seminar helps you learn if business ownership is for you, how you get started and what resources you need to make your dream a reality. The $10 registration fee covers supplies and facilities. To make required reservations, phone the Maricopa Small Business Development Center at 480-784-0590.

Tempe Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber's motto is, "Your Success is Our Business." One of the ways that it lives up to the promise is by providing guidance in starting and growing a business in Tempe through one-on-one assistance. Stop by the Chamber at 909 E. Apache Blvd. to meet the staff and pick up some nifty pamphlets and manuals. Click in at www.tempechamber.org or phone at 480-967-7891.

Veterans Corporation
Are you a Veteran? Are you also a business owner, or have you considered starting your own business? The Veterans Corporation can help by providing you access to capital, training, networking, and services. Membership is free. Visit us at www.veteranscorp.org, or