Commerce FAQs: How can technical assistance help my small business?
Rhode Island Commerce
Helping companies land and expand in Rhode Island, we’re the state’s economic development agency.
Far from just computer support, technical assistance includes many comprehensive services that can help businesses grow and thrive.
Navigating Available Resources
Rhode Island's business ecosystem is supported by more than 100,000 small businesses who employ over 50% of the state's workforce, representing more than $10 billion in wages annually.
That significant contribution to the local economy is why business support organizations are working to develop targeted resources for small businesses.
'Technical Assistance' is the name for the broad range of services offered by business support organizations. From help with business plans and legal work, to e-commerce, marketing, licensing, and many other types of support.
Do you have a business or strategic plan in place?
According to a study in the Journal of Management Studies, companies with written business plans grow 30% faster than those without. And the Journal of Small Business Management reports 71% of fast-growing companies have strategic plans in place.
Businesses with a plan don't just perform better, they are also far more likely to get funding than those without.
Developing an effective plan can be costly, unless businesses are able to tap the free services available to them under programs that offer technical assistance, which connect businesses with qualified professionals to develop business plans at no-cost.
Need help navigating a confusing permitting process?
Licensing and permitting can be a complicated process for new and emerging businesses. It is important businesses get these processes right to avoid legal consequences or fines.
Technical Assistance programs offer free services that connect businesses with experienced professionals that can answer any questions and offer advice that is specific to the business's needs.
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Want marketing and communications support to reach new customers?
Businesses who are looking to grow often turn to marketing to help their business reach that next stage of development. Marketing, media, and communications can help businesses do a better job of telling their story.
Technical Assistance programs include free services that help businesses develop strategic media plans, PR strategy, advertisements, website development, and more.
Thinking about launching an e-commerce platform to boost sales?
In today's increasingly digital world, e-commerce helps businesses diversify their revenue streams, allowing them to tap a vast network of new potential customers. There are many options when it comes to potential vendors to work with, businesses must rely on experienced professionals to help them ensure they are using the platforms that are best suited to their specific needs.
With the free services offered by Technical Assistance programs, businesses can work with experts to navigate e-commerce activities.
Do you want human resources and payroll off your to-do list?
The back office and employee benefits are two key areas of focus for emerging companies. Businesses who work with qualified and experienced professionals often see the best return on investment. Technical Assistance programs offer free services that connect businesses with professionals who can assess what services, platforms, or administrative support resources are available.
Getting Started in Rhode Island
Rhode Island Commerce, the lead economic development agency for the State of Rhode Island, manages statewide support programs, like the Minority Business Accelerator, which offer technical assistance.
Businesses interested in assistance available at Rhode Island Commerce and other trusted business support organizations across the state can learn more by contacting a Business Advisor at (401) 521-HELP or CommerceRI.com
Resources for Women and Minority-Owned Businesses
Partnering with a variety of locally based intermediary organizations, Rhode Island Commerce's Minority Business Accelerator connects women and minority-owned businesses to a comprehensive network of services.
Interested businesses can go to CommerceRI.com/MBA to learn more.