Free and Affordable Resources Available to Help Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs Succeed in The American Dream City
By Susan Schrock, Office of Communication
Posted on October 04, 2022, October 04, 2022

Urban Design Center

Small business owners and entrepreneurs in Arlington don’t have to go it alone. Numerous free and affordable resources, from counseling and workshops, to grants and bid opportunities, to coworking spaces – are available throughout The American Dream City to help residents achieve their business potential.

One place to start is the City of Arlington’s Economic Development website, which includes information about financing, property development opportunities, business resources and even a downloadable Small Business Resource Guide. The City’s Small Business Assistance page aims to quickly connect residents with information such as required permits, available grants, the Urban Design Center’s free services, Arlington Public Library networking events, workshops and digital resources, and professional mentorship connections.

The Office of Business Diversity is located on the third floor of Arlington City Hall, 101 W. Abram St., and oversees the City of Arlington’s Minority & Woman Business Enterprise (MWBE) Program. This program seeks to reduce barriers and foster participation, with minority and woman-owned companies, on all City contracting and procurement opportunities. Our program initiatives include community outreach, compliance of MWBE policies, educational workshops/webinars and promotion of networking opportunities with the minority & woman business community. For more information about the MWBE department and to receive notification for upcoming solicitations, please visit the City’s website and become a registered supplier on IONWAVE.

The Tarrant Small Business Development Center also offers a host of free resources, including start-up feasibility analysis, business plan development and loan package development. Be sure to check out the website for training opportunities, financial assistance, or to set up an appointment to take advantage of business advising solutions services. The Tarrant Small Business Development Center has partnered with the City of Arlington to help small businesses learn how to successfully bid on city contracts.

Not quite ready to open your own office location? Arlington is home to several co-working spaces that provide affordable office, meeting room and other valuable business amenities for freelancers, entrepreneurs and professionals. PinnStation Coworking, Union Worx Coworking, and NuvoDesk as well as the future Spark Coworking at Choctaw Stadium are just a few of the options available.

Making community connections is also a smart way to grow your business. Networking opportunities are available through organizations such as the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, Arlington Black Chamber and U.S Pan Asian American Chamber.

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