What Is A Microbusiness?
SBA Definition Of A Small Business
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Less than 500 employees
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or, Less than $41.5 million in annual revenue (depending upon industry)
Microbusiness Definition
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5 or less full-time employees
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Less than $250,000 in annual revenue
The Impact Of Microbusinesses
Despite their small size, they play a huge role in small and rural economies.
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96% of all small businesses in the U.S. have less than 10 employees
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82% of all small businesses in the U.S. have zero employees
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Each additional microbusiness per 100 people in a county is associated with roughly +$489 in median household income per year
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Each additional microbusiness created adds 7 additional jobs on a county level
Microbusinesses add to the quality of place in a community. They provide local goods and services and give jobs or extra income to their owners and others. Think:
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A candle maker selling at local vendor fairs and shops
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A local handyman doing word-of-mouth jobs
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A boutique owner running a shop on Main Street
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A food truck operator serving up hometown favorites
The Challenge
Too often, when these microentrepreneurs want to launch or grow they don’t get the help they need. Why?
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They don’t even know help is available
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They think they are too small for available programs
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Available business support programs aren't geared toward microbusinesses
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There are no local business support programs
Communities often want to offer small business help, but do not have the staff to implement such resources. Those who have tried struggle to identify and engage microbusiness owners, and once connected, it’s difficult to balance their immediate needs with the long-term support required for growth.
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That's where SmartStart comes in.
How SmartStart helps you support microbusinesses in your community.
SmartStart Business Development partners with local small business and economic development leaders by equipping them with the tools, training, and resources to reach all three types of entrepreneurs - meeting each where they are, when they’re ready to launch or grow.
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​It’s a community-led approach to growing local economies through microbusiness development.
How is SmartStart Different From Other Small Business Development Programs?
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We focus on microbusinesses.
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We partner with communities, not just individuals.
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We offer a low-barrier option for entrepreneurs just starting out.
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We align with the work already being done in the community.
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We bring all the local business resources to the table. No silos here!
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We understand small town and rural realities. No need for extra staff.
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We truly care about your community and your entrepreneurs.