The Alamo City was recently ranked No. 19, up four spots from 2022, on PenFed Foundation’s Top U.S. Cities for Veteran Entrepreneurs in 2023. The rankings were determined by a number of factors including livability, economic growth, support for veterans, and ability to start a business.
Regardless if you’re a veteran or civilian, do you have a super cool business idea but don’t know where to begin? Check out these five helpful (and mostly free) resources to help get the wheels in motion.
The San Antonio Public Library
First things first, get yourself a library card. Once you’re a member, you’ll have access to a host of resources like:
- BusinessUSA
- LinkedIn Learning
- SCORE
Launch SA
This partnership between the City of San Antonio and Geekdom gives access to those interested in starting their own business. Future business owners can get find tailor-made resources through mentorship and education. Check out its Assistance Resource request form.
Economic Development Department
Our chamber of commerce is full of resources for area entrepreneurs + plays a huge role in the economic development — ahem, attracting new businesses. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Register with the South Central Texas Regional Certification Agency — a nonprofit committed to enhancing participation for disadvantaged, small, minority, and woman-owned businesses.
- The Mentor Protégé Program
- Small Business Economic Development Advocacy — a program for local + small businesses to submit proposals for city-funded projects.
LiftFund
This San Antonio nonprofit helps entrepreneurs get a jumpstart by providing any size loan — from $500 to $100,000 — at a 0% fixed interest rate.
San Antonio for Growth on the East Side (SAGE)
SAGE is a local group dedicating to enhancing and growing small businesses on the city’s Eastside. They offer grant programs as well as mentorship opportunities.
We just scratched the surface, take a look at other city resources.
