The 17 SBDCs across Pennsylvania have access to the best sources and can guide you in using them. The Pennsylvania Small Business Development Centers are on the cutting edge of using information technology to find the answers you need. SBDC resources reach well beyond the World Wide Web and provide access to other valuable resources including hundreds of commercial electronic databases, CD-ROMs, software programs, and export and government sales leads. Each SBDC also maintains a library of key print directories, periodicals, and government publications. In addition, SBDC consultants across the state share specialized industry expertise and unique information resources.
Consultants also have access to an entrepreneurial library and business information specialists.
The first step is to meet with an SBDC consultant to assess your information needs. The consultant will guide you through structuring your research, selecting resources, conducting the research, analyzing the results, and incorporating them into your business plans. You do not need your own computer, modem or other equipment. The SBDC has the tools that are necessary to conduct research for the answers you need. Online database searches are conducted by the consultant to make sure it is fast and economical.