Entrepreneurs Can Find Support at the NBDC and Chamber of Commerce

Entrepreneurs and small business owners across Western Nebraska can turn to the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) for resources, while getting involved in the Scottsbluff/Gering United Chamber of Commerce early on to network and find support. These organizations are designed to help business owners across the region, regardless of their industry or experience levels.

“Talk to us once you know you want to do something, even if you don’t know what it is,” says Alex Coon, Scottsbluff Center Director for the NBDC. “It’s never too early to sit down and start on a business plan. Once we start talking, we can identify hurdles you need to overcome.”

Even seasoned business owners can benefit from meeting with the NBDC and joining the local Chamber. Learn more about these two organizations and how they help the Western Nebraska economy. 

The NBDC Meets Entrepreneurs Where They Are

The NBDC is a low- to no-cost organization that offers confidential consulting to SMBs and entrepreneurs. In many cases, local entrepreneurs can use their services for free. No matter where you are in the business journey, Coon and the NBDC team will be happy to meet with you.

“We specialize in helping people put together business plans, guiding them to outline various aspects of their business,” says Coon. “We also assist with financial projections and help business owners find financing.”  

Coon adds that it’s not uncommon to meet business owners who have already approached the bank for funding but weren’t able to secure a loan. He helps them learn about alternative options and how to make their business plans more detailed, while understanding what lenders look for.

Creating a business plan is one of the most important aspects of launching a company, and Coon sees attempts to create these plans in all shapes and sizes. Many entrepreneurs put too little detail into their plans or don’t know what to include. His team at the NBDC helps people refine their ideas until there are no questions left to answer. 

The NBDC Connects Entrepreneurs to Other Resource Providers 

Coon is the first to admit he isn’t an expert in every industry or every aspect of business. However, if the NBDC team doesn’t have an answer for local business owners, it will connect them to other resources that do.

For example, in other NBDC chapters across the state, there are specialists in cybersecurity or international trade practices. Alan Martinez, the statewide business consultant, is the NBDC's Spanish-speaking representative.

The NBDC is also happy to connect entrepreneurs with resources within and outside its organization. One of its branches is SourceLink Nebraska, which shares information and resources for business growth.

“If I don’t understand something, I can connect you with someone who does,” says Coon.

Coon is available for both in-person and remote consultations. He works around busy schedules and regularly meets with entrepreneurs who still have full-time jobs or who balance raising kids with running a business. 

Business Owners Can Also Join the Scottsbluff-Gering Chamber

Western Nebraska entrepreneurs can also get involved in the Scottsbluff/Gering United Chamber of Commerce. Membership costs are based on the number of employees an organization has, and there are several events throughout the year to network with other professionals and potential customers.

Coon was recently elected to join the Chamber board, so business owners will know at least one person when they join.

“I hope to get more involved with the public now that I am part of the Chamber,” says Coon. “I want to immerse myself in the small business community and help where I am able to.”

Coon has lived in Scottsbluff for the past seven years, having grown up in nearby Bayard. He appreciates how nice everyone is and how eager people are to help out. In his roles with the NBDC and Chamber, Coon gets to contribute to this culture of support, helping entrepreneurs out when he can.  

Find Resources Through Trusted Community Development

Starting a business is an exciting but stressful time. There are dozens of things to learn as you establish your operations and take on customers. However, there are also experts ready to help when you need them. Along with the NBDC and Chamber, business owners can meet with the team at Trusted Community Development (TCD) and take advantage of its meeting spaces and services.

Turn your idea of becoming an entrepreneur into a reality this year. Contact TCD today or reach out to Alex at the NBDC to take the first steps.