Business Counseling

Franklin County CDC Counseling Services

After attending an Information Session, one hour of free individual counseling is available to those who are starting or growing a business. Receive business planning instruction that includes marketing, budget projections and business plan critique.

Fee-based counseling will guide you through developing a mission statement, goals and objectives, marketing plan, operations plan, and budget projection. This is structured for people who prefer individual counseling. Individual sessions by appointment.

Interested?

  • Attend the next free information session Sign up here
  • Call for an appointment 413-774-7204 ext 107

 

FREE BUSINESS COUNSELING is also available through the following organizations:

Hilltown CDC, Chesterfield, MA

Valley CDC, Northampton MA

Quaboag Valley CDC, Ware MA

Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network  – to make an appointment with an MSBDC counselor in:

  • Franklin County, contact the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce at 413-773-5463
  • Berkshire County, contact MSBDC Berkshire Regional Office at 413-499-0933
  • Hampden County, contact MSBDC Western MA Regional Office at 413-577-1768
  • Hampshire County, contact Northampton Chamber of Commerce at 413-584-1900

SCORE
To make an appointment with a SCORE counselor, contact the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce at 413-773-5463, or Western MA SCORE at 413-785-0314

 

Other Fee-based Counseling Services

are available from business consultants, accountants, lawyers, CPAs. To locate an industry expert that best fits your need:

  • Ask several people you respect for a referral – obtain at least 2-3 choices
  • Set up informational interviews to determine compatibility and if expertise fits your need
  • Once you have selected the industry expert:
    • Make a plan for the project
    • Determine what you can do to prepare for your meetings (being prepared will lower your cost)
    • Agree to a fee for service and time needed to complete the work.