Business & Finance

Small Business Resources

The Worcester Public Library offers online databases, tutorials, onsite SCORE counseling, and “Ask a Librarian” email research by information professionals to individuals with small business and entrepreneurial pursuits. The Worcester Public Library is a member of WBRA - Worcester Business Resource Alliance. This networking group is comprised of non-profit and government organizations located in or serving the small businesses and entrepreneurs of the City of Worcester, Massachusetts. They provide low- or no-cost services and programs, and funding to help entrepreneurs and small business owners start, grow, and succeed.  

If you’ve ever thought of turning your great idea into a business, our free business workshops will help you get started! Come to all or attend the one that fits your needs. Click here to register for small business workshops!  

Research Databases and Other Helpful Resources

Starting A Business

• BusinessUSA.gov
• The Center for Women & Enterprise
• City of Worcester - Executive Office of Economic Development 
• Massachusetts “Guide to Starting a Small Business"
• Massachusetts Small Business Resource Toolkit
• SimplifyLLC
• Small Business Development Center at Clark University
• EforAll of Greater Worcester

Company Profiles

• AtoZ Database
• Reference Solutions

Financing a Small Business

• SBA Financial Assistance

Legal Questions

• IRS Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center
• Massachusetts License Search

Demographics

• Census Business Builder
• U.S. Census Bureau

 Small Business Counseling

A SCORE counselor provides assistance and answers questions for anyone thinking about or planning to start a business.  Learn more about SCORE at https://worcester.score.org/

Free and Low-Cost Online Business Courses and Webinars

• Coursera: business school courses and more
• Edx: sciences, technologies and medicine
• SBA: Learning Center
• Udacity: computer Science, programming and math eg. How to build a startup