Business Resources

Explore organizations, funding opportunities, and tools that can help you start, develop, and grow your business.

Starting a Business

Resources to help entrepreneurs launch their business, understand requirements, and access startup guidance.

Small Business Administration (SBA)

Tools, guidance, and training resources to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.

Startup Guidance Training
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SCORE

Free mentoring, workshops, and educational resources to help entrepreneurs start and grow successful businesses.

Mentoring Workshops
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Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)

No-cost consulting, training, and resources to help entrepreneurs start, manage, and grow their businesses.

Consulting Training
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Explore More Startup Registration & Business Setup Resources
Texas Business Portal A statewide resource to help entrepreneurs find information about starting a business in Texas, including business registration, licenses, permits, and other requirements. Texas Secretary of State — Assumed Name (DBA) Information Learn about registering an assumed name, also known as a DBA, in Texas. Filing requirements may vary depending on your business structure and location, and some businesses may need to file with their county clerk. Texas Secretary of State — Doing Business in Texas Explore state resources and information for businesses operating in Texas, including business formation, registration, and compliance guidance.
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Developing & Protecting Your Idea

Resources to help entrepreneurs refine ideas, understand intellectual property, and connect with organizations that support innovation.

United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

Learn about patents, trademarks, and intellectual property protection through educational resources designed for inventors and entrepreneurs.

Patents Intellectual Property
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Texas Accountants & Lawyers for the Arts (TALA) Patent Pro Bono Program

Connects qualifying inventors with volunteer patent professionals who may provide assistance with the patent application process.

Patent Assistance Pro Bono
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Baylor Law School Intellectual Property Law Clinic

Provides intellectual property legal services through a law school clinic setting for qualifying clients with IP-related needs.

Intellectual Property Legal Resources
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Product Development & Manufacturing

Resources to help entrepreneurs develop products, improve manufacturing processes, and access technical and industry support.

NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)

Provides manufacturing resources and expertise to help small and medium-sized manufacturers improve processes, adopt new technologies, and grow operations.

Manufacturing Technical Assistance
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Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC)

Provides manufacturing consulting and technical assistance to help Texas manufacturers improve productivity, quality, and competitiveness.

Manufacturing Process Improvement
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America Makes

Supports additive manufacturing innovation through education, collaboration, resources, and technology development initiatives.

Additive Manufacturing 3D Printing
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Explore More Product Development Resources

Explore additional tools, guides, and educational resources that may help throughout the product development and manufacturing process.

Designer BEE Makerspace Directory Helps entrepreneurs, inventors, and makers find makerspaces, fabrication labs, and prototyping resources with access to tools, equipment, and facilities to help bring ideas to life. Hardware Resource Database Provides product developers with access to hardware development tools, manufacturing resources, suppliers, and guides to support the creation of physical products. SOLIDWORKS for Startups Program Provides eligible startups with access to 3D design software, resources, and support to help develop and refine physical products. NE Innovation Labs Provides product development, engineering, prototyping, and manufacturing support to help innovators move ideas from concept to market.
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Funding Your Business

Resources to help entrepreneurs understand funding options, prepare for financing, and explore opportunities that support business growth and innovation.

Small Business Administration (SBA)

Learn about SBA-backed loan programs, funding guidance, and educational resources to help finance your business.

Loans Funding Resources
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Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)

Receive guidance on financial planning, loan readiness, funding opportunities, and preparing your business for growth.

Financial Planning Loan Readiness
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Texas Economic Development & Tourism
(Office of the Governor)

Explore Texas business incentives, financing programs, and statewide resources that support business growth and expansion.

Texas Programs Business Incentives
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Explore More Funding & Contracting Resources

Explore additional resources for grants, innovation funding, and government contracting opportunities.

Grants.gov Search federal grant opportunities for eligible organizations, research projects, and businesses. America's Seed Fund (SBIR/STTR) Explore the federal SBIR and STTR programs, which provide non-dilutive funding to eligible small businesses developing innovative technologies. Apex Accelerator Free training and one-on-one assistance to help small businesses compete for federal, state, and local government contracts. LiftFund Provides small business loans, training, and resources to help entrepreneurs and small business owners access capital, start businesses, and support growth.
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Growing Your Business

Resources to help businesses strengthen operations, expand into new markets, and develop strategies for long-term growth.

Texas Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)

Provides no-cost advising, business planning, market research, and strategic guidance to help Texas small businesses improve operations, develop growth strategies, and expand.

Business Growth Consulting
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U.S. Commercial Service

Helps U.S. businesses expand into international markets through export counseling, market research, trade expertise, and resources designed to support global growth.

Export Assistance International Growth
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Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM)

Provides resources and financing support to help U.S. businesses expand internationally, manage export risks, and compete in global markets.

Export Financing Global Growth
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Explore More Business Growth Resources

Explore additional organizations and tools that provide mentoring, business support, and resources for continued growth.

SCORE Manage & Grow Resources Access mentoring, workshops, templates, and practical guidance to help business owners manage and grow their businesses. 1 Million Cups A national entrepreneur networking program that connects founders with local startup communities, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs through weekly events focused on learning, collaboration, and business growth. Texas Economic Development & Tourism (Office of the Governor) Explore Texas programs, resources, and initiatives designed to support small business growth and expansion.
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Regional Resources

Explore local and regional organizations across Texas that provide business support, resources, and connections within their communities.

All Regions Austin Dallas-Fort Worth El Paso Houston Panhandle Rio Grande Valley San Antonio

All Regions

Explore statewide and multi-region organizations that provide business support, technical assistance, mentorship, and resources available to entrepreneurs across Texas.

Explore Statewide Resources
Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) Connect with local SBDC offices across Texas for no-cost business advising, training, and resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and strengthen their businesses. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Local Assistance Find SBA district offices and resource partners that provide counseling, funding guidance, government contracting assistance, and small business support throughout Texas. SCORE Provides free business mentoring, workshops, and educational resources through SCORE chapters supporting entrepreneurs across Texas. Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) Provides technical assistance, training, and consulting services to help Texas manufacturers improve operations, productivity, and competitiveness. APEX Accelerators Helps businesses pursue government contracting opportunities through assistance with registrations, certifications, procurement, and contract readiness. Texas Woman's University Center for Women Entrepreneurs Accelerator Provides entrepreneurship education, mentorship, and resources for eligible entrepreneurs. Participation is not limited to TWU students. Designer BEE Makerspace Directory Helps entrepreneurs, inventors, and makers locate makerspaces and fabrication resources available in their area. 1 Million Cups A national entrepreneur networking program that connects founders with local startup communities, mentorship opportunities, and resources. Texas Defense Innovation Supports Texas innovators and organizations working in defense-related industries by connecting companies with resources, opportunities, and industry networks.

Austin Region

Austin, TX

Austin Public Library Innovation Lab

Provides access to creative technology, equipment, and hands-on learning opportunities that support innovation, design, and prototyping for entrepreneurs, makers, and the community.

Makerspace Prototyping
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Austin Region

Texas State University Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

Provides no-cost business advising, training, and resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and strengthen their businesses.

Business Advising Startup Support
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Austin, TX

Austin Economic Development — Small Business Resources

Connects small businesses and entrepreneurs with local programs, educational resources, training opportunities, and support services designed to help businesses grow.

Local Resources Business Support
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SCORE Austin Provides free business mentoring, workshops, and educational resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and successfully manage their businesses. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) San Antonio District Serves small businesses throughout Central Texas, including the Austin region, by connecting entrepreneurs with government programs, funding resources, and support services. Texas Woman's University (TWU) Center for Women Entrepreneurs Accelerator Supports eligible entrepreneurs through accelerator programming, education, mentorship, and business development resources. Participation is open to eligible entrepreneurs and is not limited to TWU students. Austin Regional Manufacturers Association (ARMA) Connects manufacturers and industry professionals through networking, education, and resources that support manufacturing growth. Membership or participation fees may apply. Cedar Park Makerspace Provides access to tools, equipment, and creative resources that support hands-on learning, innovation, and prototyping. Kyle Makerspace Offers access to equipment, technology, and maker resources that encourage creativity, skill development, and hands-on projects.

Dallas-Fort Worth Region

Dallas-Fort Worth

Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC DFW)

Provides manufacturing expertise, technical assistance, and industry resources to help businesses improve operations, increase efficiency, and scale production.

Manufacturing Support Technical Assistance
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North Texas

North Texas Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

Provides no-cost business advising, training, and resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and strengthen their businesses.

Business Advising Startup Support
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Dallas, TX

Dallas Public Library Creative Spaces

Provides access to creative spaces, technology, equipment, and hands-on learning opportunities that support innovation, design, and prototyping.

Makerspace Prototyping
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Explore More Dallas-Fort Worth Resources
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Dallas-Fort Worth District Connects small businesses with government programs, funding resources, contracting support, and local assistance throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth region. Fort Worth Small Business Development Program (SBDP) Provides resources, support services, and opportunities designed to help small businesses start, grow, and succeed in Fort Worth. SCORE Dallas-Fort Worth Provides free business mentoring, workshops, and educational resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and successfully manage their businesses. Texas Woman's University (TWU) Center for Women Entrepreneurs Accelerator — Dallas Supports eligible entrepreneurs through accelerator programming, mentorship, education, and business development resources. Participation is open to eligible entrepreneurs and is not limited to TWU students. Arlington Library Makerspace Provides access to tools, technology, and creative resources that support hands-on learning, innovation, and prototyping.

El Paso Region

El Paso, TX

El Paso Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS)

A centralized resource hub connecting entrepreneurs and small businesses with information, tools, and local resources to support business planning, development, and growth in the El Paso region.

Business Support Local Resources
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El Paso Region

SCORE Central Texas

Provides free business mentoring, workshops, and educational resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and successfully manage their businesses.

Business Mentoring Startup Support
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El Paso, TX

El Paso Community College Makerspace

Provides access to tools, equipment, and hands-on learning opportunities that support creativity, innovation, and prototyping for entrepreneurs, students, and the community.

Makerspace Prototyping
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Explore More El Paso Resources
El Paso Small Business Development Center Provides no-cost advising, training, and business resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and strengthen their businesses. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) El Paso District Office Connects small businesses with government resources, funding programs, contracting support, and local assistance. El Paso Economic Development — Small Business Support Provides local business resources, connections, and support services to help entrepreneurs and small businesses start, grow, and succeed. FAB Lab El Paso Provides access to fabrication tools, technology, and educational opportunities that support innovation, design, and hands-on prototyping. El Paso County Recording Division (DBA / Assumed Name Registration) Learn how to register a Doing Business As (DBA) or assumed name for businesses operating in El Paso County.

Houston Region

Houston, TX

University of Houston SURE™ Program for Entrepreneurs

Provides aspiring entrepreneurs with educational resources, startup training, mentorship, and business development support to help launch and grow new ventures.

Entrepreneurship Startup Support
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Houston, TX

Houston Exponential

Connects founders with Greater Houston's startup ecosystem through networking opportunities, investors, accelerators, educational programs, and innovation resources.

Startup Ecosystem Networking
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Harris County

Harris County Public Library Maker Labs

Access makerspaces featuring 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, vinyl cutters, sewing equipment, and digital media tools to prototype ideas and learn new skills.

Makerspace Prototyping
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Houston Inventors Association Provides inventors with educational meetings, networking opportunities, and resources focused on developing and bringing new ideas to market. Membership or participation fees may apply. Pearland Innovation Hub Connects entrepreneurs, startups, investors, advisors, and community members through innovation programs, educational opportunities, and business resources. Impact Hub Houston Supports entrepreneurs, innovators, and startups through mentorship, training opportunities, community programs, networking, and connections designed to help grow impactful ventures. TXRX Labs A nonprofit makerspace offering classes, fabrication equipment, coworking space, and hands-on access to tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, machine shops, electronics labs, and woodworking equipment. Membership or class fees may apply. Greater Houston Manufacturers Association Supports manufacturers through networking, industry connections, supplier relationships, and manufacturing resources across Greater Houston. Membership or participation fees may apply.

Panhandle Region

Northwest Texas

Northwest Texas SBDC

Provides no-cost business advising, training, and resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and strengthen their businesses.

Business Advising Startup Support
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Northwest Texas

Northwest Texas APEX Accelerator

Helps businesses navigate government contracting opportunities by providing assistance with registrations, certifications, procurement processes, and contract readiness.

Government Contracting Business Support
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Amarillo, TX

Amarillo Public Library Makerspace

Provides access to creative tools, technology, and hands-on learning opportunities that support innovation, design, and prototyping.

Makerspace Prototyping
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Explore More Panhandle Resources
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) West Texas District Office Connects small businesses throughout West Texas with government programs, funding resources, counseling, and support services. Abilene Makerspace Provides access to tools, technology, and creative resources that support hands-on learning, innovation, and prototyping.

Rio Grande Valley Region

South Texas / Rio Grande Valley

SCORE South Texas

Provides free business mentoring, workshops, and educational resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and successfully manage their businesses.

Business Mentoring Startup Support
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Lower Rio Grande Valley

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Lower Rio Grande Valley District

Connects small businesses with resources, counseling, funding programs, government contracting support, and local assistance throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

Small Business Support Government Resources
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Brownsville, TX

Brownsville Public Library MakerSpace

Provides access to tools, equipment, and hands-on learning opportunities that support creativity, innovation, and prototyping for entrepreneurs, makers, and the community.

Makerspace Prototyping
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Explore More Rio Grande Valley Resources
UTRGV Small Business Development Center Provides no-cost business advising, training, and resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and strengthen their businesses throughout the Rio Grande Valley. South Texas Manufacturers Association (STMA) Supports manufacturers throughout the Rio Grande Valley and South Texas region through industry connections, workforce development, training opportunities, and resources that help businesses grow and compete. Membership or participation fees may apply. RGV Startup Connects entrepreneurs and innovators throughout the Rio Grande Valley through startup events, networking opportunities, and resources that support the local entrepreneurial community.

San Antonio Region

San Antonio, TX

Launch SA

Supports entrepreneurs through coworking, business education, mentorship, networking, and startup resources designed to help new and growing businesses succeed.

Entrepreneurship Startup Support
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San Antonio, TX

San Antonio SBDC

Provides no-cost business advising, training, and resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and strengthen their businesses.

Business Advising Startup Support
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Schertz, TX

Schaefer Library Makerspace

Provides access to makerspace equipment, creative technology, and hands-on learning opportunities that support innovation, design, and prototyping.

Makerspace Prototyping
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Explore More San Antonio Resources
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) San Antonio District Office Connects small businesses with government programs, funding resources, contracting opportunities, and local support services throughout South and Central Texas. SCORE Central Texas Provides free business mentoring, workshops, and educational resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and successfully manage their businesses. Bexar County Small Business & Entrepreneurship Department Connects entrepreneurs with business development programs, educational opportunities, technical assistance, and local resources throughout Bexar County. City of San Antonio Economic Development — Business Owners Provides information on business assistance programs, incentives, permitting resources, and services available to businesses operating within San Antonio. Bexar County Start a Business Offers guidance on registering a business, understanding local requirements, and accessing resources for starting a business in Bexar County. San Antonio Manufacturers Association (SAMA) Connects manufacturers through networking, workforce development, educational opportunities, and industry resources that support manufacturing growth. Membership or participation fees may apply.
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Resources are provided for informational purposes only. SATOP partners and collaborates with some organizations listed on this page; however, inclusion does not imply a formal partnership, endorsement, or affiliation with all listed resources.

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