Small Business Support Services

Your Partner in Business Growth

Fort Worth’s Small Business Development Program (SBDP) connects entrepreneurs and small businesses with a strong network of local partners dedicated to helping businesses start, grow, and thrive. Through collaborations with our chambers of commerce and regional certification agencies, small business owners gain access to expert guidance, educational resources, and opportunities that support long-term success.

What We Offer

Through collaborations with chambers of commerce, regional certification agencies, and local partners, SBDP provides:

• One-on-One Business Consultations: Personalized guidance on business planning, financial readiness, and growth strategies.
• Educational Workshops & Training: Topics include procurement, certification, supply chain management, and marketing.
• Certification Assistance: Help with SBE, HUB, VETHUB, and other certifications to qualify for City contracts.
• Matchmaking Opportunities: Connect with prime contractors and City departments for procurement and partnership.
• Access to Capital Resources: Guidance on financing options and introductions to lenders.
• Bilingual Support: Available through the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for Spanish-speaking business owners.

Small Business & Workforce Programs

Beck School of Construction

The Beck School of Construction is a nine-month program done in partnership with The Beck Group to help local construction businesses build their industry knowledge, grow their expertise, and become more competitive when bidding on projects.

Fort Worth Business Plan Competition

The Fort Worth Business Plan Competition not only celebrates the efforts and passion of small business owners, but provides them with the tools, the mindset, and the support of their peers to help set them up for success.

Programs & Workshops at the Business Assistance Center (BAC)

The Devoyd Jennings Business Assistance Center (BAC) and its partners on the James E. Guinn Entrepreneurial Campus offer business development programs, networking events, technical assistance and mentorship to small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Veterans Business Support & Resources

Delivering a full suite of education, technical assistance, and resources for veterans in the small business ecosystem and local workforce.

Our Entrepreneurial Hub

The James E. Guinn Entrepreneurial Campus is home to the Devoyd Jennings Business Assistance Center (BAC), your one-stop shop for small business success.

The BAC offers:

• Business development programs
• Networking events
• Technical assistance and mentorship

Learn more about the BAC

Partners in Your Success

The City of Fort Worth partners with the three local chambers of commerce to increase local small business participation in City contracts, expand access to capital and mentorship, and strengthen community-wide business support infrastructure.

• Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce provides bonding and insurance workshops, financial readiness education, and fast-track certification workshops assisting businesses with SBE, VETHUB, and HUBZone submissions.
• Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce provides supply chain and logistics training, mentorship, and matchmaking support to help small businesses connect with City contracts, while also supporting procurement education, tracking, and reporting for larger and multi-year agreements. Assistance is available in Spanish.
• Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce organizes forums, expos, and mentoring programs to connect small businesses with prime contractors and promote City contracting opportunities.

This initiative aligns with federal grant requirements and builds on existing partnerships and community feedback.