Before May ends, it is an ideal time to acknowledge that business owners cannot do everything alone. When small business owners make time to network, gain marketing strategies, and scale their businesses strategically, greater success can be achievable. Keep these tips in mind while embracing your entrepreneurial journey.

Make it easy for customers to find you.

Spread the word about your enterprise online and in-person. Create a virtual business card and take advantage of cross-promotion opportunities with fellow business owners by leaving physical business cards in different locations. Connect with people who are unafraid of giving and sharing information within the community. Word-of-mouth works together with sending customers to a website or social media page. When potential customers read about your services or products, make it easy for them to ask questions, contact you, or make purchases. 

Keep track of your business expenses.

Stay organized ahead of tax time by making a focused effort to stay organized. Beat the tax season shuffle by using apps and software to track your business expenses and get paid. It is essential to keep accurate financial records. Let technology assist you. Receipt scanner apps range from Zoho (https://www.zoho.com/us/expense) to QuickBooks. 

Use the Internet to network.

Time in your schedule may be tight, but you can still access social media to connect with fellow small, owed business owners in your demographic and community such as Buy Black Networking BALTIMORE. Job tips, business opportunities, and political awareness is shared to empower people of color who share a likeminded desire to circulate opportunities and information. Members also recommend businesses when members seek various services. See https://www.facebook.com/groups/bbnbaltimore. 

Check your local chamber of commerce.

“The Maryland Chamber of Commerce is the state’s leading business advocacy organization — committed to working with our alliance of partners on critical public policy issues. With a focus on economic development and grassroots advocacy, we impact policies that directly affect Maryland business,” according to https://www.mdchamber.org. 

Even if you are not a Maryland Chamber of Commerce member, consider checking for opportunities to network or attend roundtables. 

Coworking spaces

Save expenses before taking a gamble on deep financial commitments such as dedicated office space. Look for local alternatives that can let you get your feet wet with less responsibility. For example, Spark, Baltimore’s (https://sparkcoworking.com/baltimore)  most collaborative coworking space, aims “to provide entrepreneurs, creatives and innovators with the community and space, allowing them to ignite ideas that transform into successful companies and organizations.” A mailbox with a professional business address, high-speed Wi-Fi, private office spaces, meeting rooms, a community day pass, and more is available through Spark, located at Power Plant Live!

Barter Smarter and Creatively.

Barter Black® strives to transform how Black entrepreneurs thrive through bartering. Additionally,  in-person events offer chances barter in person with vendors, founders, and creators. A pop-up https://barterblackpopup.com even will be held on May 31, 2026 in Fort Washington, Maryland during National Barter Black® Day.

Check institutions for resources.

Research resources that may be available for entrepreneurs and/or nonprofit leaders through local colleges and universities. According to https://gce.jhu.edu/nonprofit-funding, “Johns Hopkins offers several funding and sponsorship programs to support local nonprofits, community projects, and neighborhood initiatives, with a focus on health, education, economic growth, and public safety.” Do not be afraid to explore submitting proposals that could lead to sponsorship. Remember to  submit grant applications well in advance of your proposed event or program. 

Find out what your state offers.

Get help to develop your vision. Free individualized consulting, from start up to established businesses,  is offered through Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC). 

“Maryland SBDC also offers comprehensive training programs, from those just thinking about starting a business to executive training, with most classes at low to no cost,” per information provided by  https://www.marylandsbdc.org. 

Additionally, check https://commerce.knack.com/find-a-maryland-incubator-or-accelerator to access additional incubators, accelerators and co-working spaces in Maryland.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (USBA)

The U.S. Small Business Administration offers entrepreneurial training and counseling, connection to  expert business mentors in a wide range of services at no cost, help to begin or grow a veteran or military spouse-owned business, and training, counseling, and resources for women-owned businesses. See  https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance for details.

Do not be afraid to exchange information with other business owners.

Building a business does not happen overnight. Continue to broaden your network, subscribe to newsletters, check in with quality contacts, and increase your value as an ethical member of the business community. Your reputation can help you to gain referrals. Remember to provide stellar customer service. It can take you far in your journey.