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AHMC’s Small Business Resource List 2017

As small business owners, it can sometimes be challenging to navigate the overwhelming amount of “good” resources available to us. Over the years, we have narrowed down some of the ones that we feel provide great opportunities, information, and platforms for accomplishing our goals in a cost-effective way.

Below is a list we compiled to help you get your business off on the right foot!

1.       Hoovers

By creating an account on Hoovers, you can use industry-specific SIC and NAICS codes to gather data on businesses that operate in said industry. This data includes revenue, contact information, address, location type, and the number of employees. Information can be customized as specific, down to the zip code, or generic as needed. This is a great resource for gathering sales leads.

2.       The List

This database allows you to enter a company name and gather various data. They offer contact information, media spending, brands affiliated with the company, media agencies, hierarchy, and competitor information. Once you find the data that best suits your needs, you can export it into an excel file.

3.       Canva

Canva is a free online graphic design software that is a simplified version of Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. It allows you to create sophisticated infographics, invitations, postcards, social media posts, and much more. For the graphic design novice, this is a must-use.

4.       Adweek

Adweek, a marketing and advertising publication, is a great resource for small businesses because of the diversity of their posts. Under the digital section on their website, they often post great tips on social media marketing and developments on Facebook, LinkedIn, Snapchat, and Instagram tools. They also frequently post-digital marketing statistics that help businesses understand the current digital environment.

5.       Marketing Profs

Marketing Profs is an excellent resource for marketing professionals or small businesses looking to expand their marketing. By signing up for their membership, you are eligible for different training programs and access to their research and events. They offer interesting online seminars, podcasts, and articles that keep you up to date on industry developments.

6.       Squarespace/ Hosting Sites

Hosting sites like Squarespace are an easy and cost-effective way to create a professional website without the hassle of hiring an expensive web designer. Anyone can create an account, choose a template, and publish a dynamic website.

7.       Facebook Ads

Facebook ads are one of the most cost-effective ways to reach your target audience online. You can determine how much you want to spend to boost each post and create a specific target audience through their program.

8.       Google SEO and SEM

Using Google’s search engine optimization feature, you can use a variety of search specifications to ensure that your target audience is redirected to your website. For a more detailed explanation and how-to click here

9.       IBISWorld

IBISWorld is a great resource for businesses in any industry. They publish industry-specific data, studies, and statistics that discuss current trends and changes. Although it is not free, their studies are worth the price!

10.   FreePik/ Stock Photos Website

Often, customers expect to see images on your website or in your blog post. An easy and cost-effective way to ensure quality visual content is to sign up for a stock photo website. FreePik is a great one. You can type in keywords relating to the image you are looking for, and they have hundreds of great ones!