Help for Small Businesses – Groups to Join

You are not out there all alone in your small business.  There are many groups that can help you figure things out and provide you with resources, advocacy at the state and national level, and pooled buying for insurance and other business needs. Some of the groups are non-profits, others are not (or don’t seem to be).  They all have common features:

• Some kind of advocacy for small businesses in Washington, D.C. and some at the state level
• Networking with other small business owners
• Products you can purchase, like health insurance, at group rates (I didn’t check any rates so I don’t know how they compare)
• Online resources and information on topics small business owners want to know.
• And they all require membership dues.

In the time I have been writing about small business subjects, I have noticed how many small business advocacy groups are out there. Here are three groups I have found:

The National Federation of Independent Business calls itself “The Voice of Small Business” and membership in this organization allows you to:

1. Save money on everything from insurance to shipping to computers
2. Get free legal help from NFIB’s Employment Hotline, webinars and guides
3. Make your voice heard through NFIB’s influence in Washington and powerful grass roots efforts in your state capitol
4. Connect with experts and other small business owners to network, learn, and get support
5. Browse a large database of business resources with information and templates to help you grow your business.

The National Small Business Association says it’s the oldest group (formed in 1937) and calls itself “America’s Small Business Advocate.”  Their mission is “to advocate state and federal policies that are beneficial to small business, the state, and the nation—and promote the growth of free enterprise.”

The National Association for the Self-Employed , in business since 1981, calls itself the leading resource for micro-businesses, and has as its motto “In business own your own. Not all alone.” This group provides assistance for self-employed business owners, including advocacy, and other resources. NASE is associated with MEGA Life and Health Insurance Company and it offers members group rates on life, health, and other insurances.

Image: sxc.hu