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College of Business
Arkansas State University
       
 

 

 

 

 

Growing an Existing Business

Helpful Links
    
Conducting Market Research
     Marketing Do's and Don'ts
     Marketing for Small Businesses
     Hiring Employees - What You Need to Know

     SBDC Loan Packet Information - PDF File

Established Businesses
Established businesses include businesses which are currently in operation. Owners of existing businesses have overcome many hurdles in the pre-planning and start-up stage. However, existing business owners continue to face a variety of challenges. Business owners must effectively use limited resources to improve their position in the market while continuing to manage the critical aspects of business operations. In addition to limited budgets, business owners have limited time since they must wear multiple hats in the business. To achieve long term success, business owners must also work to lay the foundation for future growth and adapt to changes in the marketplace.

The Arkansas Small Business Development Center offers a variety of services and solutions to assist owners of existing businesses. The ASBDC supports business owners by offering general information and market research, individualized counseling services, and training programs on relevant business topics online.

Financing
Obtaining financing for a small business is a big step and can be challenging. Therefore, it is important to consider the realities of obtaining financing. Information on obtaining financing can be found at the following links:

In order to obtain a small business loan for an existing business, you should develop a loan proposal in order to communicate with potential lenders. The ASBDC also offers recommended action steps for developing a small business loan proposal.

Growth Planning and Business Expansion
Growing or expanding a small business requires planning. It is important to establish a solid foundation for future success as well as avoid common pitfalls. To assist small business owners in these efforts, the ASBDC provides individualized counseling services to existing businesses in Arkansas.

The ASBDC also provides assistance in developing a business plan. For those who are writing a business plan, the ASBDC offers suggested Action Steps for Writing a Business Plan. These steps are intended to help guide you through the process as well as point you towards suggested information and tools.

Additionally, various tools and articles on the topic of business planning are available online:

Marketing Solutions
The ASBDC offers marketing assistance to small business owners. Businesses can receive assistance in obtaining market research and developing a marketing plan as well as obtaining suggestions and advice regarding marketing options. The ASBDC provides tools and information in the area of marketing.

Maximizing Profits and Managing Cash Flow
Maximizing profits and managing cash flow are objectives of most small business owners. The ASBDC can assist small business owners in pursuing these goals. By offering individualized counseling services to small business owners in Arkansas, the ASBDC staff can analyze the current status of a business and its cash flow patterns. The ASBDC can then provide information and recommended solutions tailored to the needs of the small business. Additionally, the ASBDC can develop customized financial analysis reports utilizing existing businesses' financial statements which provide insight into the financial strengths and weaknesses of the business. This information can be valuable in planning, budgeting, and managing cash flow.

In addition to counseling services, other tools and information are available online:

Training Opportunities
The ASBDC offers a wide variety of live and online classes on topics relevant to existing business owners.

Questions & Answers
Arkansas residents who need additional assistance in answering small business questions, please contact your local SBDC office.

 

 

 

  Arkansas Small Business Development Center
Arkansas State University - Jonesboro - College of Business
Business Room 117A • 2007 Aggie Road • P.O. Box 2650
State University, Arkansas 72467
Phone: (870) 972-3517
Fax: (870) 972-3678
Email: asusbdc@astate.edu

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