The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and operates with the goal of promoting economic development and supporting small businesses across the country. Their services are available to anyone who wants to start or expand a business in the United States, including California.
SBDC offers various resources and services such as business planning, financial analysis, marketing assistance, access to capital, and other guidance necessary for starting and operating a business. While specific programs and services may vary by location, all SBDC locations provide support and training to individuals from diverse backgrounds, including immigrants, who are interested in entrepreneurship.
SBDC in Sacramento assisted an Afghan SIV holder, journalist, and intelligence researcher, to establish Kauser Media Group.
According to the founder, SBDC provided guidance on various aspects of starting a business, such as business registration, applying for licenses, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), creating a business plan, and applying for loans and insurance.
Through the support and training of Sacramento Valley SBDC, Kauser Media Group now successfully operates under four different DBAs (Doing Business As). It is important to note that SBDCs in California are also partially funded by the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
Ms.Lee from the Sacramento Valley SBDC mentioned that they offer free services, resources, and guidance to anyone, including immigrants from Afghanistan who want to start or develop a business in the area. SBDC offers a range of services to assist entrepreneurs in starting and growing their businesses. Some of the services they provide include:
1. Loan Packaging & Funding Strategy
2. Financial Analysis & Forecasting
3. Accounting & QuickBooks assistance
4. Business Expansion
5. Buying or selling a Business
6. Start-up Planning & Strategy
7. Hiring & Employee Management
8. Human Resources Compliance
9. Operations & Management
10. Marketing Research
11. Marketing & Sales Research
12. Online Marketing & SEO
SBDC supports individuals from diverse backgrounds in their entrepreneurial endeavors and provides workshops and advice to individuals of all cultural backgrounds in Sacramento who are interested in starting a business.
SBDC is running workshops in multiple languages both via Zoom and in Person at various SBDC locations.
Another Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holder shared that he recently started a business in Carmichael. He said that he invested over $120,000 in the business and obtained a county permit and general permit through a provider who assisted him with the process for a substantial fee. When asked about his state license and Employer Identification Number (EIN), he expressed unfamiliarity with the concept of an EIN and stated that he only possessed county permit documents but no license from the state, which is required for his business.
He has long-term goals for his business, including organizing a fashion show, creating a documentary about Afghan immigrants’ struggles and triumphs, and hosting live concerts and theatrical events. He expressed a need for assistance and when he was made aware of SBDC’s free services, he expressed a strong interest in attending free business workshops to gain knowledge and guidance.
Kauser News Agency’s new Business Department introduced him to further support and guidance from resources such as the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and other organizations that help entrepreneurs. These entities can provide valuable information on obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, as well as help with business planning, marketing, and accessing resources for funding or grants. Attending business workshops or seminars can also be beneficial in gaining essential knowledge and networking opportunities.
Kauser News’ Business Department is dedicated to supporting Afghan immigrants who are striving to start their own businesses as well as those who want to develop their businesses or want to protect their businesses by bringing them into compliance with laws and regulations. By writing articles, conducting interviews, and seeking out additional resources like SBDC, they can provide valuable information and assistance to these entrepreneurs.
In addition to highlighting available resources and support systems, Kauser News can also play a crucial role in raising awareness about Afghan entrepreneurship by sharing both the challenges and success stories. By showcasing the experiences and journeys of Afghan entrepreneurs, they can inspire others and provide practical guidance on navigating the process.
In addition to SBDC, there may be other organizations, nonprofits, or community groups in the local area that offer assistance to immigrant entrepreneurs. Kauser News’ Business Department can conduct research and identify such resources, including mentoring programs, workshops, funding opportunities, and networking events tailored specifically for Afghan immigrants and other immigrant communities.
By collaborating with these organizations and sharing information through their news platform, Kauser News can effectively support and empower Afghan immigrants who are starting their businesses. They can create a network of support and provide a platform for these entrepreneurs to connect, learn from each other’s experiences, and access the resources they need to succeed.
By amplifying the voices and stories of Afghan immigrant entrepreneurs, Kauser News can contribute to their success and promote the economic growth and integration of the Afghan community in their new home.
