Small Business Guide
Applying for a loan from any lender requires extensive research and preparation on behalf of the borrower, including development of the business plan, investigating available financing options, and approaching possible lenders. In an effort to better assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in this preparation phase, OPIC has compiled a list of resources to form a SME Business Guide. The SME Business Guide serves as navigational tool, guiding investors to helpful OPIC and other on-line resources.
How to Prepare a Business Plan:
- “Writing a Business Plan” – Business.gov
- “Business Plan Basics” – Small Business Administration (SBA)
- “Ideas For Improving A Business Plan” (.doc) – OPIC
- “Creating a Sources and Uses Statement” (.doc) – OPIC
- “Sample Financial Projections Model” (.xls) – OPIC
- “Business Toolbox: Template Gallery” - Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)
- “SME Tool Kit” – International Finance Corporation (IFC)
How to Raise Capital:
- “Financing Basics” – Small Business Administration (SBA)
- “General Financing & Accounting” – Business.gov
How to Obtain Assistance & Training:
- Small Business Training Network - Small Business Administration (SBA)
- Small Business Development Centers - Small Business Administration (SBA)
- SCORE Counselors - Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)
- Minority Business Development Agency, U.S. Department of Commerce
- Women’s Business Centers, Small Business Administration (SBA)
How to Obtain Export Assistance:
- U.S. Export Assistance Centers, U.S. Department of Commerce
- Office of International Trade, Small Business Administration (SBA)
- Export-Import Bank of the United States
How to Obtain Feasibility Study Assistance: