With more than 90 percent of businesses in the Commonwealth of Kentucky having fewer than 50 employees, small businesses are essential to Kentucky’s economic vitality. That’s why the Cabinet for Economic Development’s Small and Minority Business Branch (SMBB) is dedicated to assisting all small businesses in Kentucky, both start-up and existing, including:

• Microenterprises (companies with 5 or fewer employees)
• Women-owned companies
• Veteran-owned companies
• Minority-owned companies
• Companies located in economically challenged areas
• Companies owned by individuals classified with disabilities

We can offer you the tools you’ll need to take your company to the next level. Some of our services include:

• Free, one-to-one business consultation
• Referrals to federal, state, and local business programs and services designed to help small businesses start up, expand operations and hire employees
• Training programs on key topics of importance to the small business community

We can also provide assistance in the following areas:

• Starting a small business
• Small business funding options
• Buying a business
• Operating an online business
• Developing a business plan
• Obtaining a surety bond
• Business certification
• Buying into a franchise
• Understanding and developing financial statements
• Utilizing business incubators and accelerators
• Permits & Licenses

Need to learn more about our loan programs? We’ll be happy to lead the way.

Every business starts out small – even Kentucky’s largest corporate superstars were unknown when they began. So, let us roll out the red carpet for your small business because when it thrives, Kentucky thrives. For additional information or assistance, please email Mark Johnson (MarkL.Johnson@ky.gov), Branch Manager, or call toll free 1-800-626-2250.