Want to unlock new opportunities for your auto repair shop? Learn how to tap into local organizations that are eager to help your business thrive, connect with valuable resources, and maximize community support.

We'll explore the benefits of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), leveraging Downtown Development Districts, and participating in programs like Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses. 

Plus, discover how to network with local government officials, secure grants, and enhance your shop's visibility and growth.

Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

• Tanchubajo Economic Development Foundation (TEDF) - https://www.tedf.org/
• Small Business Development Center (SBDC) - sba.gov/sbdc
• Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) - https://10ksbapply.com/
• The Idea Village in New Orleans - https://www.ideavillage.org/

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) The hosts introduce the podcast and discuss the episode's focus on local organizations for business support.
• Tangible Economic Development Foundation (00:01:10) Brian shares his experience with TDF, emphasizing its role in supporting local businesses.
• Importance of Economic Development Foundations (00:02:27) Discussion on how these foundations help attract businesses and provide resources, particularly for small enterprises.
• Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) (00:04:15) Kim explains the role of SBDCs, offering assistance with business planning, funding, and market research.
• SBDC Resources and Classes (00:06:09) Overview of various resources available through SBDCs, including classes and networking opportunities for business owners.
• Finding Your Local SBDC (00:08:09) Advice on how to locate an SBDC and the value it brings to small business owners.
• Downtown Development Districts (00:09:15) Brian introduces Downtown Development Districts and their potential benefits for businesses in historic areas.
• Engagement with Downtown Development Districts (00:10:12) Discussion on the importance of local business involvement and awareness of district events and resources.
• Marketing Opportunities through Events (00:11:15) Encouragement to participate in local events to promote businesses, even if they seem unrelated to automotive repair.
• Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program (00:13:17) Brian explains the program's purpose, which is to provide small business owners with essential skills and resources.
• Experience with the 10K SB Program (00:15:35) Kim shares her perspective on the program, highlighting its benefits and the connections made among participants.
• Startup Accelerators (00:16:32) Discussion on startup accelerators that help new businesses grow quickly, including local examples.
• Local Government Support (00:18:01) Insights on the role of local government in supporting businesses and fostering a positive business environment.
• Getting Involved in the Community (00:19:48) Encouragement to engage with local organizations and share experiences to benefit the community.
• Chamber of Commerce Importance (00:22:50) Highlighting the chamber of commerce as a key connection to other business organizations in the community.
• Networking Benefits (00:23:56) Personal stories illustrating how networking and involvement in local organizations can create valuable connections.

How To Get In Touch

Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind

Website - shopmarketingpros.com 

Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 

Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book

Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 

Questions/Ideas - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com