Small Business Development Center

Small Business and Non-profit Digitization Services

The new coronavirus is having a tremendous impact on the economy. Particularly hard hit are small businesses that rely on customer engagements to generate product and service revenues. Non-profits are also struggling to provide critical client services or generate revenue for key operations. Many have tweaked operating models as best they can and are continuing business through remote work. We know that for some, going digital will be a lifeline to survive. But we also know that managers and owners lack time, knowledge and resources to make this happen efficiently and effectively.

WPI, along with CWE and the MSBDC at Clark University is offering no cost digital services to small businesses and non-profits with a strong desire to help in transitioning to a digital revenue or operating model. Using a digital triage approach each project will quickly perform one or all of needs analysis, identification of relevant resources, implementation, training, and remote operation.

The digital services include but are not limited to:

• Recommendations to digitize existing operations or sales.
• Create, modify or search optimize a website.
• Create or modify a digital storefront to enhance e-commerce (for example, list the top 50 products).
• Implement or modify a scheduling system (for example, for a repair or e-commerce delivery business).
• Train managers and staff to work remotely using available tools and security.

The focus will be on helping existing businesses and non-profits who have experienced impact due to COVID-19. We can assist on a variety of digital tools and resources available on the cloud/web. At this time, onsite hardware or software installation and configuration is not available.

Small Business Digitization Services 

Disaster Loan Applications

MSBDC advisers can assist businesses with disaster loan applications. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to Massachusetts small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19.  Massachusetts businesses are now eligible to apply.

If you are not a client and would like to receive services, please complete our online Request for Counseling form.

Learn more and apply for SBA’s disaster loan

COVID-19 Resources for Businesses

• SBA.gov: SBA offers disaster assistance in response to COVID-19.
• Mass.gov: The Massachusetts state website has the latest information on COVID-19.
• America’s SBDC has gathered helpful information and resources on COVID-19.
• MSBDC.org has a dedicated COVID-19 page with helpful resources and articles.

Want to know how to start a small business?

Successful entrepreneurs are continually seeking ways to improve the management and operation of their businesses, often seeking outside advice, such as the services of the MSBDC Network, to meet particular challenges. Studies consistently show that Massachusetts citizens receive a strong return on their investment with Small Business Development Center by using these services. Our clients outperform other Massachusetts businesses’ average sales and job growth.

The Small Business Development Center at Clark University is committed to helping your business succeed in Massachusetts. We provide free, confidential, one-on-one business assistance and free or low-cost educational training programs to prospective and existing small businesses throughout the state in order to foster the start, growth, and sustainability of these businesses.

Please register in order to receive free and confidential business advice from our advisors. Registration is fast, easy, and free.

Register now

Testimonials

“These are incredibly dedicated people with all the knowledge and direction you will need to get your ideas off the paper napkin and into a viable business plan. The personal attention from walking in the door of this nondescript office in the middle of the campus at Clark University to the friendly support all the way up to the director is unmatched by any other government office.  They offer as much support and guidance as you want through the entire startup process through the pains of growing your business and beyond.  It is a pleasure working with them and I highly recommend you start with this organization as your partner.”
—Ric Craig, Hardwick

“This center is an excellent resource for anyone who needs business planning help. Entrepreneurs, small business owners looking to expand, or people thinking of buying a business would benefit from the resources they offer. My husband is a former client and I am currently a client. My contact at the SBDC is Leo Sharkey. He has always been very helpful. My situation is complex and requires a lot of his time, but he’s happy to help. They have area referrals for business attorneys, CPA’S, banks that do small business loans, and insurance brokers. They can also have you meet with a specialist if need be.
Overall, a great asset for the community!”
—Julia M., Worcester

A partnership program with the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Massachusetts Office of Business Development under cooperative agreement SBAHQ21B0012 through the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Isenberg School of Management. SBDCs are a program supported by SBA and extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. SBA cannot endorse any products, opinions or services of any external parties or activities. By contacting our office and requesting at least two weeks in advance, every attempt will be made to reasonably accommodate persons with disabilities and those who need translation services.