Business Resources
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Why Auburn?
Starting a business in Auburn, Nebraska, could be advantageous depending on various factors that align with your business goals and preferences. Here are some potential reasons why Auburn might be a good place to start a business:
Before starting a business anywhere, including Auburn, it’s crucial to conduct thorough market research and feasibility studies to ensure there’s a viable opportunity for your business idea. Additionally, visiting the area, networking with local business owners, and understanding the regulatory environment are essential steps in making an informed decision.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Small towns often have tight-knit communities where local businesses are supported and celebrated. Auburn may offer a supportive environment where local customers prioritize patronizing hometown businesses.
LOWER COSTS
Operating costs such as rent, utilities, and wages might be lower in Auburn compared to larger cities. This can potentially lead to higher profit margins for your business.
MARKET OPPORTUNITIES
Assess if there’s a demand for your product or service in Auburn. Small towns often have niche markets or underserved needs that could present lucrative opportunities for a new business.
LESS COMPETITION
Smaller towns generally have fewer businesses competing for customers compared to larger cities. This could give your business a better chance to establish itself and build a loyal customer base.
QUALITY OF LIFE
Auburn’s quality of life factors such as lower crime rates, cleaner environment, and a more relaxed pace of life can be appealing for entrepreneurs looking for a better work-life balance.
PROXIMITY TO LARGER MARKETS
If Auburn is strategically located near larger cities or major highways, it can provide access to broader markets while still benefiting from lower costs and a community-oriented environment.
GOVERNMENT SUPPORT
Check if Auburn offers incentives or support for new businesses, such as tax breaks, grants, or business development programs.
PERSONAL REASONS
Consider personal factors such as family ties, lifestyle preferences, or a desire to contribute to a smaller community. These can significantly influence your decision to start a business in Auburn.
Where do I start?
If you are planning to start or bring your business to Auburn or Nemaha County, Nebraska or expand your current business, there are a variety of resources at your disposal. The list below provides an overview of the network of people who are ready, willing and able to assist you. If you would like customized information, please contact Leslie with the Auburn Chamber of Commerce at 402-274-3521.
Your first stop may be Sourcelink Nebraska which is a one-stop shop for Nebraska entrepreneurs, business owners, and resource partners to find the right resource at the right time. sourcelinknebraska.com
The One-Stop Registration Information System has been established to help in navigating the process of setting up a new business. This system is designed to help create your business entity by:
- Asking you pertinent questions about your business
- Identifying necessary forms to be filed with appropriate State agencies.
- Providing you with help links and contacts throughout the process.
BUSINESS PLAN FOR A START UP BUSINESS (PDF)
Since its founding on July 30, 1953, the U.S. Small Business Administration has delivered millions of loans, loan guarantees, contracts, counseling sessions and other forms of assistance to small businesses. sba.gov
Service Corp of Retired Executives (SCORE) is a nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and helping small businesses start, grow, and succeed nationwide. SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and has been mentoring small business owners for more than forty years. score.org
The Nebraska Business Development Center is a business development center that helps provide consulting and education, among other resources to small and mid-sized businesses. Many services are free to the business owner or entrepreneur, and all are confidential and impartial. nbdc.unomaha.edu
The Nebraska Enterprise Fund (NEF) is a statewide financial intermediary dedicated to supporting microenterprise practitioners. nebbiz.org
NEBRASKA BUSINESS STATUTES
A resource for employers and employees, as well as labor data. dol.nebraska.gov
A resource for business loans and business plan development. sendd.org
The State of Nebraska Department of Economic Development provides an online toolkit containing links to a number of programs and information resources related to starting or expanding a business in Nebraska. wolterskluwer.com
Invest Nebraska provides startup companies based in Nebraska, or willing to locate to Nebraska, with access to capital through four core programs: Venture Competitions, Angel Sidecar Fund, Nebraska Innovation Fund, Loan Funds. Invest Nebraska is committed to supporting the entrepreneurs of Nebraska. In addition to providing capital they provide technical assistance in a number of ways. investnebraska.com
The Nebraska Rural Initiative identifies opportunities in rural Nebraska and catalyzes experimentation, innovation and collaboration in partnership with rural citizens to enhance the economy of rural areas while promoting the sustainable and socially beneficial use of resources. digitalcommons.unl.edu/rural_initiative
The Center for Rural Affairs offers four essential services: financing (microloans), business training, technical assistance, and networking. Through their staff, you can create a business plan, research potential markets and marketing ideas, discuss management issues with experienced business specialists, and apply for a small business loan. crfa.org