CONCORD, NH – Happy Small Business Week! We’re celebrating because small businesses – all 132,432 of them in New Hampshire, according to the Small Business Administration – are the fuel that drives our economy.
The success of businesses, both large and small, drives our team here at New Hampshire Economic Development as well, and in honor of Small Business Week, we offer the best business advice to keep you fired up.
Chris Way
Deputy Director
“Stay focused on the reason you started the business and don’t be tempted to pursue too much, too quickly.”
Carol Miller
Director of Broadband Technology
“There are two ways to be in the broadband business, proactive or catching up. Proactive makes it the best business experience.”
Lorna Colquhoun
Communications Director
The most valuable commodity you have as a business owner is your story – the story behind your business. Who inspired you to start? What drives you? What is your mission? Your story is unique to you. It will make you stand out from your competitors and relatable to your customers and clients. Make the time to tell it.”
Bridget Beckwith
Tax Credit Administrator
“Your work doesn’t stop when you open your business, especially if you offer a service like accounting. It is important to stay on top of best practices, regulations and any training that pertains to what you do. This keeps you competitive.”
Deborah Avery
Business Resource Specialist
“Excellent customer service is a must! Keep in touch with your banker on a regular basis and make sure that you retain an outstanding insurance broker, accountant and attorney.”
Mollie Kaylor
Business Resource Specialist
“Don’t be afraid to seek help when you need it – there are many great programs and resources available to help your business succeed and grow! Take advantage of them.”
Mark Laliberte
Business Resource Specialist
“Make sure all of the preliminary work is done before taking that step. Issues like whether you have the financial ability to do this; can you commit the time necessary; and do you have an idea on what your business plan will look like. A great resource to address this preliminary work is to check out the SCORE website and then reach out to a counselor.”
Dave Pease
Program Manager
Government Contracting Assistance Center
“On a per capita basis, New Hampshire small businesses are government contracting powerhouses. With over $679 million in small business sales to the federal government in FY 2016 ($511.88 per capita), New Hampshire ranks #7 in the US and #1 in the Northeast!”
Amanda Duquette
Contracting Assistance Specialist
“When starting to sell to the government, start small – choose one agency you know will benefit from your product/service. You don’t want to take too broad of an approach in the beginning because you can lose focus and end up feeling overwhelmed and even defeated.”
Jane Brezosky
Contracting Assistance Specialist
“The government marketplace presents contracting opportunities to all kinds of businesses. There is great variety in the products and services that are sold to the government. Your product or services might have a government market, too.”
Cindy Harrington
Business Development Manager
“For start-ups, make sure there is a strong market for the product or service. Develop a short-term and long-term plan. Working with Small Business Development Center or SCORE can assist with strategic planning and preparing for financing. Networking is important.”
Michael Bergeron
Business Development Manager
“Stick with what you know best and don’t pretend to be someone you are not. If you are a software expert, don’t pretend to be an accountant – hire a good one.”
Tina Kasim
Program Manager
“Don’t be afraid to look at international markets; they can offer incredible opportunities for your business, but you need to plan properly.”
Nathaniel Nelson
International Trade Officer
“Never feel that you have to navigate the world of business alone. There are plenty of resources out there to help you map out your success.”
Rachel Adams
International Trade Officer
“International trade is a valuable way to support your overall strategy. It does not happen overnight – it takes time and patience, but it will be worth it in the end.”
