Owning a small business has always been a struggle. You're responsible not only for supporting yourself but also your employees, and if you fail you have no one to blame but yourself. It takes hard work and dedication to see things through, which is why many franchises in Canada and here in Jackson, Tennessee fail. We want you to be successful. That's why we're directing your attention to the small business resources in Jackson that can help you if you get into a tight spot.

West Tennessee Business Resource Center

Owned and operated by the Jackson Chamber of Commerce, the West Tennessee Business Resource Center was founded to give business owners of all sizes the most important thing they need to be successful: information. If you're having trouble figuring out how to compete with that Toronto print shop online, the free computer access and business magazines may yield the answer. You can also find more comprehensive solutions in their library of "How To" guides and learning software and some inspiration in the Dun & Bradstreet Million Dollar Directory.

Small Business Counseling Service

Run by the Chamber of Commerce and based out of the West Tennessee Business Resource Center, the Small Business Counseling Service provides one-on-one advice and assistance to struggling small business owners in Jackson. Whether you're just setting out and don't know where to start or wondering whether an instantaneous water heater is worth the investment, you can come in and ask a counselor. They're retired business owners and managers, so they'll have seen it all before and can tell you what to do. And best of all: it's free!

Tennessee Small Business Development Center

The Tennessee Small Business Development Center is supported by the Jackson area Chamber of Commerce but is run by Jackson State Community College. This is the place to go if you want to take advantage of the gold bullion prices by starting your own small investment company, or if you want to open a franchise. The counselors will help you prepare your business plan, give you leads on where to find financing, and get you started with some marketing ideas.

Small Business Programs

The Jackson Chamber of Commerce does more than offer the business version of Kitchener counselling for marriages. It also runs a number of programs and training courses that can help you become a better and more successful owner. There's the "Managing a Small Business" course, the "B for Business" networking breakfasts, the Pinnacle Awards to recognize successful businesses, a placement service for college students looking to intern, and the Business to Business program for female and minority business owners. The Small Business Development Center also runs periodic training courses for prospective small business owners.