The following websites provide information and resources on starting and running your own small business or franchise and where to find local small business consulting services.

Entrepreneurship: Starting and Managing Your Own Business

A free online course for small business owners and prospective entrepreneurs about starting and managing a small business. Developed by the U.S. Small Business Administration in collaboration with My Own Business, Inc.

Franchise.com

The commercial site provides basic information about franchising as well as a guide to franchise opportunities in the U.S./Canada and abroad. 

Online Classroom

This virtual campus of free online training courses, workshop announcements, and knowledge resources is sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of Entrepreneurial Development.

SCORE - San Diego Chapter

SCORE provides free business counseling to small business owners throughout San Diego County. 

Small Business Development Center (SBDC) - North San Diego County

The SBDC provides free consulting services, resources, and workshops to small businesses in North County San Diego. They have the knowledge and resources to help you build and maintain a successful business.

Start-up Kits

These kits offer how-to guides, start-up cost estimates, research tips, and links to associations and franchises for over 40 types of businesses.

Women's Business Center

This interactive business training Web site is for entrepreneurial women. The site contains a list of the regional centers, eight of them in California, which provide long-term training, counseling, and assistance in finance, management, marketing, procurement, and the Internet. Created in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of Women's Business Ownership.