THE COMMON TABLE
Find a useful resource, a different perspective, or the right kind of outside help.
Publication
U.S. Small Business Administration (Publisher)
An overview of closure, sale, and ownership transfer, with links to state information and sources of local help.
Keep in mind: You need a complete checklist tailored to your state, business structure, contracts, or debts.
Finder
U.S. Small Business Administration (Matching network)
A referral tool connecting businesses with participating lenders.
Keep in mind: A match is not a loan application, eligibility decision or approval. Review lender terms separately.
Publication
U.S. Small Business Administration (Publisher)
An introduction to market research, competitors, customer questions, and public data sources.
Keep in mind: You need feedback on your particular idea or someone to carry out the research.
Program
Small Business Development Centers (Program / community provider)
Business workshops and training delivered by local Small Business Development Centers.
Keep in mind: Individual consulting and group training have different terms. Check the selected center’s dates, fees and enrollment.
Membership
Scalepath (Program / community provider)
Facilitated owner peer groups with community sessions and resources.
Keep in mind: A peer group does not perform professional work for you. Confirm placement, fees and commitment.
Service
SCORE (Matching network)
Volunteer mentors offer individual business guidance. You can browse mentor profiles or request a match for your question.
Keep in mind: Mentors guide you; they do not take over your work. Match and availability depend on your needs and the mentor.
Program
Searchfunder (Program / community provider)
A network of buyers, investors, lenders, brokers, and other professionals, with research and member discussions.
Keep in mind: You want a guided course or an advisor accountable for reviewing your purchase.
Buyer opportunity
Teamshares (buyer)
An opportunity to submit a business for consideration by Teamshares.
Keep in mind: Teamshares is the transaction counterparty. Seek independent advice on price, terms and the employee-ownership structure.
Podcast
Service Business Mastery (Publisher) · Tersh Blissett (Host) · Josh Crouch (Host)
Interviews about running a home-service business.
Keep in mind: Guest stories and commercial partners are not independent validation of a product.
Danny Meyer (Author)
Danny Meyer’s account of hospitality, employees and customer relationships.
Keep in mind: Reading does not include individual advice or implementation.
Shep Hyken (instructor)
Commissioned talks about customer service and customer experience.
Keep in mind: It is not ongoing help with individual customer complaints.
Greg Crabtree (Author)
A book on owner compensation, labor productivity, cash and profitability.
Keep in mind: You still need your own accurate records and professional advice where required.