Its purpose is to enhance economic development by providing management and technical assistance to small businesses. Visit the new Association of Small Business Development Centers web site . The SBA's Technology toolbox, Business Information Centers provide the latest in high-tech hardware, software and telecommunications to help small businesses get started and grow strong. OSCSs centralize access to a full range of SBA financial and technical assistance, as well as related sources of other federal agencies, state and local governments, and the private sector. Business Information Centers, located within the OSCSs, offer the latest high-tech hardware, software, interactive videos and telecommunications to access market research databases, individual planning and spreadsheets, and other tools for the small business owner.
Individual counseling is offered in all aspects of starting, running or growing a small business.
Workshops include accounting, marketing, computer training, business-plan preparation and loan packaging. Up to three workshop locations are funded each year. There are currently 20 TBICs serving Native American reservation communities in the states of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oregon and the Navajo Nation. For location information contact the SBA Office of Native American Affairs or dial SBA OnLine. ONAA's main focus is economic development and job creation through small business ownership and education.