Resources
Entrepreneurs are strong and determined.
Add our network of business resources – and they're unstoppable.
Whether you're the head boss in charge of an established company or the driving force behind a new start-up, ECDI Women's Business Centers provide the resources you need to take your company – and yourself – to the next level.
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Explore resources below, based on your business phase or view a menu. A wide range of services are provided at no cost to any entrepreneur, while select services require WBC membership. Learn more:
Explore resources by business phase:
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Resources for the entire lifecycle of your business
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One-on-One Counseling and Advising
If you need assistance with your business plan, want to learn about applying for a loan, need impartial business advice, or need help with a specific business area, the WBC staff and our network of business advisors are ready to help.
Learn more.
Limited sessions are available for any entrepreneur. WBC members have the capability to schedule ongoing sessions.
Access to Small Business Loan Capital
Entrepreneurs can access a range of loan funds through the WBC and ECDI. You do not have to be an experienced borrower or have a top-tier credit score. We are dedicated to serving those entrepreneurs who generally are unsuccessful leveraging traditional lenders.
Learn more.
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Loan Preparation and Other Assistance for ECDI Clients
For entrepreneurs who are applying for a loan or who hold a loan with ECDI, the Women’s Business Centers provide entrepreneurial assistance and small business resources. From business planning, to one-on-one loan readiness counseling, to next-level workshops for established entrepreneurs, we are your go-to resource.
Learn more.
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Business Plan Development
You know your business inside and out. But knowing how to put it on paper can be a hurdle. We offer assistance – from consultation sessions to the 9-week DreamBuilder business plan development program – to help document your goals and develop a plan that gives you a greater chance of success and long-term sustainability.
Learn more.
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Various Online and On-Demand Resources
For tech-savvy entrepreneurs who prefer to learn at their own pace or just need a template to help get their plans on paper, we offer a range of online resources, videos, templates and more. For safety during pandemic restrictions, classes and consultations are accessed online or by appointment.
Learn more.
Workshops, Education and Training
Gain knowledge your business needs with entrepreneur training on a diverse range of topics including business basics, marketing, HR, financial, legal and more, delivered by real-world business owners and experienced professionals.
See schedule of upcoming classes.
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Professional Advisory Network (PAN)
The PAN brings entrepreneurs together with seasoned pros who can help them reach the next level. The network includes business owners, Fortune 500 execs, and other brilliant minds who span a diverse range of business areas and provide specialized mentoring.
Learn more.
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Access to the PAN is a membership benefit of the WBCs.
ECDI Food Business Incubation Services
Grow your food and beverage business in a supportive environment. Our offerings include one-on-one advisory consulting, business model scaling, liaising with regulatory agencies, industry certification courses, and procurement opportunities.
For those in Columbus, our Food Fort commissary kitchen offers an industrial-sized facility with all the physical resources needed to launch or grow your food business.
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Learn more.
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ECDI Veterans Business Outreach Center of Ohio
Located at Wright State University’s Veteran & Military Center, the ECDI Veterans Business Outreach Center of Ohio (VBOC) is a dedicated resource for service members, veterans, and military spouses looking to start or grow a business. Our team will help you navigate SBA programs, government contract opportunities, and other resources to support your business journey—whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just getting started.
Learn more.
