If you’re the owner of an SME (small- to medium-sized enterprise, under 250 employees), it’s easy to feel you’re alone in your quest. That’s not a good position to be in, but it doesn’t have to be that way. The fact is, there’s plenty of support out there to help you succeed. This ranges from business coaches to peer groups, to local, national, and international support and advocacy organizations. These resources can provide you with an outside perspective on the challenges you face, and allow you to benefit from the experiences of others who have successfully managed similar situations.

Business Coaching

To support your success, the first thing to do is to hire a business coach. We hope you’ll engage an AdviCoach, who brings many years of solid business management experience and skills to your operation. AdviCoaches uses proven strategies and a variety of tools they customize to meet your specific needs. They focus on helping you fulfill both professional and personal goals, which are often entwined. In addition, the national network of AdviCoaches provides your coach with peers to work with, exchanging ideas and best practices. Many coaches in the same region get together to share experiences. And all our coaches attend regional and national training sessions and conferences to stay up-to-date with all the great tools have available for you.

Small Business Support Organizations

In addition to hiring a business coach, you can connect with organizations that provide small business support. These offer a variety of help, ranging from securing funding, to connecting with other businesses for advice, referrals, and partnerships, to advocating the interests of small business with state and federal governments. Here are some to look into.

United States Small Business Administration (SBA). This is the cabinet-level federal agency dedicated to small business. The SBA helps Americans grow their businesses and create jobs by providing resources, such as Federal contracting opportunities, entrepreneurial education, and disaster assistance. The SBA also helps you access capital using their Lender Match tool, microloan intermediaries, and 504 loans issued through Certified Development Companies (CDCs). SBA District Offices across the country offer state-specific services and local opportunities. In addition, SBA Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) in your area provide assistance to help you start, run, and grow your business.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Their CO website delivers actionable ideas for growth and connects like-minded businesses. They provide links to 47 grants, loans, and programs to secure funding.

Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO). This group of entrepreneurs spans the globe and focuses on helping you expand your interests and grow. You can join a local or regional chapter and connect with peers in monthly forums. Members must be the owner, founder or majority stakeholder of a business that had at least $1 million in revenue for the latest fiscal year.

Remote Work Association (RWA). This is a free community of global business leaders committed to a virtual operations business model. RWA connects you with peers and resources to build your location-independent company with confidence.

National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). This nonprofit, nonpartisan, member-driven advocacy organization works for American independent business owners at both state and federal levels.

National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE). This is another advocacy organization for entrepreneurs and small business owners. In addition to advocacy, NASE offers you a wide range or resources and tools, such as health insurance plans, travel services, and scholarships for members and their children.

There are also groups that focus on helping a specific group of businesses, such as those owned by women, minorities, and veterans. Search online for resources that may be available for your situation.