Small Business Resources

Find support for your business online.

At every stage of your business, the library can save you time and money. Are you expanding a thriving business? Or still deciding if entrepreneurship is right for you? Either way, we’re here to connect you to the people and information you need.

Entrepreneur and Small Business (ESB) Certification

Test your knowledge in entrepreneurship and small business management.

Community Business Connector

Find business help in your neighborhood. Work with a point-of-contact from the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce.

Small Business Coaching

Are you thinking of starting a business? Or have a business but want it to grow? Are you facing a business puzzle? Get one-on-one counseling.

Starting and Running a Small Business

Learn how to start, manage, or grow a small business. Write your business plan. Develop management skills. Understand essential topics like finance, law, and marketing.

Online Resources Library card required

Business Plans Handbook 

Browse sample business plans from entrepreneurs seeking funding for small businesses. Includes plans in the manufacturing, retail, and service industries.

eBook Business Reading Room 

Choose from thousands of the best books and audiobooks about business and leadership. Read on your phone, device, or computer.

LinkedIn Learning

Learn new skills in on-demand video courses. Includes courses about starting and running a business.

Mango Languages 

Learn a language with self-paced online language learning software. With specialty courses for business, legal, and industry vocabulary.

Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce

Read articles on business, money, real estate, technology, construction, architecture, and the environment.

Market and Consumer Research

Access premium market research reports, understand your competition, and locate your customers.

Online Resources Library card required

ReferenceUSA (Data Axle)

Search company and residential data for the U.S. and Canada.

Finance and Capital

Stay on top of your finances. Perform due diligence. Understand your industry’s benchmarks. Research funders and investors.

Online Resources Library card required

The Investment Center 

Stay current with investing data and reports. Find mutual fund and stock data. Browse portfolio analysis. Get up-to-date financial news and commentary. Learn about personal finance topics like stocks or retirement.

Technology

Learn to use the technology and tools your business needs.

Online Resources Library card required

LinkedIn Learning 

Learn new skills in on-demand video courses. For business, web design and development, IT, education, and more.

Microsoft Office Certification (MOS)

Prepare for success with a Microsoft Certification. Find free learning resources and certification exam sessions at your library.

Work-Life Balance

Work hard, play hard. No-cost ways to avoid burnout, build relationships, and have fun.

Online Resources Library card required

Business magazines on OverDrive

Stay up-to-date on business news with digital magazines. Find current issues of Kiplinger's, Money, Fast Company, and more.

hoopla 

Stream movies, TV, music, and comics on your computer or mobile devices. All titles are available with no holds and no waiting.

OverDrive

Borrow eBooks, downloadable audiobooks, and magazines. Read or listen on your computer, mobile device, or eReader.

Personalized reading recommendations 

Find your perfect BookMatch. Request a list of books chosen just for you.

New in Business Books

Events

Small Business Stories

We're sharing stories from immigrants, BIPOC, and women business owners. Learn how they have adapted during the pandemic.

Single Button Module

Explore More Stories

Small Business Stories Feed

Job and Business Education Newsletter

Sign up for featured events, reading recommendations, and free small business resources. All are handpicked by staff.

Single Button Module

Sign Up
Back to Top