Community Resources

Entrepreneurship Resources

• Business Resource Guides – University of Wisconsin-Madison: Conduct company research, finance and investing resources, and other aspects of running a business. Some guides may require access through the UW Business Library
• Community Economic Development – Division of Extension: Access business resources and trainings provided by UW Extension community educators
• Local Chambers of Commerce: Find your local chamber of commerce to connect with other small business owners through networking and training opportunities 
• SCORE: Participate in small business mentorship and training networks, partially funded by the US Small Business Administration. SCORE chapters are located throughout the United States.
• US Small Business Administration: Access national resources and guidance for Small Business and Entrepreneurs from startups, management, and federal contracting
• Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation: Identify grant opportunities, training, and mentorship opportunities for Wisconsin-based small business and local communities to grow their economies

Social Services

• 211 Wisconsin: Connect to local programs and services to meet your individual needs, free and confidentially
• Access Wisconsin: See if you qualify, apply for, and manage your state of Wisconsin benefits and programs, all in one place
• Covering Wisconsin: Connect to health insurance options or other programs that support health. Visit the website to review available health insurance options or call 877.942.6837 to get connected to a health insurance navigator
• Techquity: Find affordable internet plans and receive a no-cost laptop if you are eligible. You can also connect with a Digital Navigator to learn basic computer skills or troubleshoot technology issues
• USA Learns: Learn American English through online instruction, prepare for US Citizenship exams and interviews, and learn basic job skills  

Support & Mentorship

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Struggling with your mental health, emotional distress, alcohol and drug concerns, or just need someone to talk to? Connect with a caring counselor
• Fidelity Bonding: Obtain a business insurance policy if you feel an employer would question your honesty and deny you a job due to previous ‘at risk’ behaviors, including committing fraudulent and dishonest acts
• Lift Wisconsin – Legal Tune Up: Identify and address your civil legal problems, such as driver’s license, eviction, debt collection, criminal record, or child support  concerns
• Wisconsin SHRM: Receive mentorship and support from human resource professionals as you move through your job search journey. To get connected with a mentor, please email leadershipdirector@wishrm.org.It would be helpful to include the following information in your email: the type of job search assistance you need, the type of job or industry you would like to apply to, and what area of Wisconsin you live in