Technical Assistance
Your Partner in Building a Thriving Black Business
Starting or growing a business in the Berkshires? You don’t have to navigate the journey alone. The Berkshire Black Economic Council’s Technical Assistance program connects Black entrepreneurs with the resources, knowledge, and support needed to turn your business vision into reality.
Meet Your Enrichment Navigator
Our Enrichment Navigator is your dedicated guide to business success. We meet you exactly where you are—whether you’re exploring an idea, launching your startup, or ready to scale—and provide customized support for your stage of business development.
Three Pathways to Success
🌱 Ideation Stage
You have a business idea and want to explore its potential
Your Enrichment Navigator will help guide you to:
- Refine and validate your business concept
- Conduct market research to assess viability
- Explore business structure options (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.)
- Develop your initial business plan
- Identify startup funding opportunities
- Connect with mentors who’ve walked this path
- Access workshops on foundational business topics
🚀 Startup Stage
Your business is launched (0-3 years) and you’re building momentum
Your Enrichment Navigator will support you with:
- Operational guidance and problem-solving
- Financial management and bookkeeping resources
- Marketing strategy and brand development
- Legal compliance and licensing assistance
- Access to capital and lending programs
- Networking opportunities with other entrepreneurs
- Workshops on scaling best practices
📈 Growth Stage
Your business is established and you’re ready to expand
Your Enrichment Navigator will guide you through:
- Strategic growth planning and expansion strategies
- Advanced financial management and forecasting
- Team building and human resources guidance
- Technology integration and systems optimization
- New market development and partnerships
- Access to larger capital opportunities
- Leadership development and executive coaching referrals
What to Expect
Your journey begins with a free initial consultation where we’ll assess your business stage, discuss your goals, and identify your most pressing needs. From there, your Enrichment Navigator will:
- Create a personalized action plan tailored to your specific stage and goals
- Provide ongoing one-on-one guidance through regular check-ins
- Connect you to targeted resources, workshops, and referrals
- Track your progress and adjust support as your business evolves
- Celebrate your milestones and help you overcome obstacles
Who We Serve
Our Technical Assistance program supports Black entrepreneurs in Berkshire County at every stage:
- Aspiring entrepreneurs exploring a business idea
- New business owners navigating their first three years
- Established businesses seeking growth or expansion
- Home-based businesses ready to formalize or scale
- Creative professionals and artisans building their practice
- Second-career entrepreneurs and side-hustle builders
Ready to Get Started?
Take the first step toward building the business you’ve always envisioned. Download our program overview to learn more, then schedule your free consultation with an Enrichment Navigator.
Download Program Overview (PDF)
Contact Us:
Email: navigator@berkshirebec.org
The Technical Assistance program is part of BBEC’s commitment to fostering economic justice and creating pathways to prosperity for Black entrepreneurs in the Berkshires.