For 39 years, NH SBDC has proudly supported entrepreneurs from every walk of life, but we know we can do more!
SBDC’s dedicated team of professional business advisors delivers highly individualized, confidential advising at no charge to enterprises across New Hampshire. We are proud to support clients from every walk of life, regardless of race, ethnicity, ability, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, religious or political beliefs.
With support from the CARES Act and the SBA Community Navigator Pilot Program (CNPP), we were able to launch NH SBDC’s Inclusivity Commitment. We have focused our outreach and program efforts in Southern NH communities with a goal of serving even more BIPOC and New American businesses through individualized business advising and education. In 2021, 13% of our small business clients self-identified as BIPOC. In 2022, 16.8% of our client base self-identified as BIPOC.
We are working with Community Navigator Liaisons to enhance partnerships with community leaders and build authentic relationships with BIPOC clients. Rafael Calderon and Lidia Yen provide ongoing engagement with people of color interested in starting or growing a business, and help us connect with organizations and community leaders who are excited to partner with SBDC and spread the word about our services.
SBDC Business Advisor Andrea O’Brien meets with most clients who come to us through the Inclusivity Commitment program, serving as their guide and advocate. Andrea helps them navigate business in New Hampshire and helps them forge connections with those who can help support their business growth.
SBDC’s provides postcards in several languages and a focus on DEI training for our staff and NH small businesses through live online workshops and two free eCourses.
Click here to request advising through our Inclusivity Commitment
After submitting your form, our Client Intake Specialist, Mike Cashion will be in contact to help set up a meeting with Business Advisor Andrea O'Brien, or another SBDC business advisor. Our client intake process creates a safe and trusted way for you to meet with our advisors.
We are getting out into the community!
Members of our team have participated in NH's diverse communities' festivals and cultural events, especially in Somersworth, Nashua, Manchester, and Concord. We are building partner connections and raising awareness of SBDC’s programs and services.
Partner & Client Quotes
Manchester, NH
“Andrea O’Brien (business advisor) showed me everything. She’s a wonderful lady, a friend, she is everything. If I need something, I ask Andrea. She helps me. She’s so well connected, I’m gonna stick to her like a tick!”
- Geraldine Kirega
Read their Client Story here
Nashua, NH
"I was introduced to the NH SBDC by a neighboring restaurant. The SBDC helped my business not only financially but mentally. As a new business owner, I was extremely fortunate to have such support throughout my onboarding journey."
- Colleen Island Mateo
See their postcard here
Somersworth, NH
“NH SBDC has assisted ICC in many ways. With regular meetings, SBDC provides advising services towards every ICC project by evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of products, services, and events.”
- Raude Raychel
Read their Partner Profile here