Start & Grow A Business

We help start & grow businesses!

At our Small Business Development Center, we are committed to helping entrepreneurs and small business owners turn their visions into reality. We provide personalized consulting services, expert guidance, and a range of resources to help you navigate the challenges of starting, growing, and sustaining your business. From crafting detailed business plans and securing funding to developing marketing strategies and managing operations, our team of advisors are here to support you every step of the way.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow your business, we’re dedicated to helping your business thrive, all at no cost to you. 

We can help you with:

• Business Startup Questions
• Business Plans and Detailed Financial Projections
• Industry Research
• Marketing and Sales Strategy Development
• Securing Funding and Access to Capital
• Business Licenses and Permits
• Business Growth and Expansion Planning
• E-commerce and Online Presence Optimization
• Legal Structure and Compliance Assistance

Schedule an appointment with a business advisor!

SBDC Business Advisors

Deb McGregor

SBDC Regional Director

Deb@GrowGreatFalls.org 1-406-750-0314 Linkedin

Rich Gannon, ASBC

SBDC Advisor

RGannon@GrowGreatFalls.org 1-406-836-2078 Linkedin

Christian Nichols, ASBC

SBDC Advisor/Brownfields Project Manager

CNichols@GrowGreatFalls.org 1-406-788-9385

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can you provide grants to help me start my business?
A: Our Small Business Development Center does not offer direct grant funding, but we can guide you on potential funding sources and how to apply. Check out our Lender Center with High Plains Financial or explore other financing options before connecting with a business advisor who can help walk you through every step.

Q: Will you write my business plan for me?
A: We don’t write business plans for clients, but we do provide expert advice and support throughout the process. You’ll also have free access to LivePlan, a leading tool for business plan creation.

Q: Is there a fee for your services?
A: No, our business advising services are completely free of charge.

Q: I’m thinking about starting a business but haven’t made the leap yet. Can you help?
A: Absolutely! We specialize in helping “pre-venture” clients explore their options and get started.

Q: What should I bring to our initial meeting? 
A: Please bring your vision & ideas. Your business advisor will listen and coach you based on your goals & objectives. For future meetings, all relevant information you will need to bring will be communicated to you!

Training webinars

We also offer free training webinars that cover the basics of starting a business.

Learn about the market

We have a variety of tools that can help you understand our market and industry. Visit our Market Data page to learn more!

Sites

Whether your expansion includes purchasing land or a larger building/facility, we have options that may suit your needs. Check out some site options, including our AgriTech Park and Brownfields initiatives and partnership with LoopNet.