If you're still asking yourself if entrepreneurship is in your future, the Small Business Administration (SBA) can help you answer that question, as well as provide you with an outline for your business plan, help you write a loan proposal, and alert you to the government regulations you need to know before opening your door to the public.

SBA services include:

		Startup counseling and training
		Financial assistance
		Business management
		Marketing or finding products & services

"How do I get a grant to open my business?" is the question start-up business owners most frequently ask the Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce. While there is no "free money," the SBA does provide counseling and information on accessing its Loan Guaranty Program.

One of SBA's primary lending programs, the Loan Guaranty Program, provides loans to small businesses that are unable to secure financing on reasonable terms through normal lending channels. The program operates through private-sector lenders, which provide loans that are guaranteed by the SBA. The agency, however, does not have funds for direct lending or grants.

Most banks are familiar with SBA loan programs. As such, it's best for start-up business owners to contact their local bank to obtain information and assistance in the SBA loan application process. In Dowagiac, Chamber member financial institutions that handle these applications are:

		1st Source Bank	(269) 782-5121
		Fifth Third Bank	(269) 782-3412
		Huntington National Bank	(269) 782-8651

Chamber member financial groups that do not handle SBA loan applications, although do provide small business or commercial loans are:

		Honor Credit Union, formerly Berrien Teachers Credit Union	(269) 782-7900
		Landmark Mortgage Group	(574) 233-7767

SBA's district office in Michigan is located in Detroit at 477 Michigan Avenue, Room 515. For more information, contact the district office at (313) 226-6075, or visit them on the web at www.sba.gov.