The SBDC is affiliated with the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. The Region 9 SBDC Center is housed in Madison’s Venture Out Business Center (VOBC) and is hosted by the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce. The SBDC provides no-cost one-on-one consulting for new and expanding businesses. Interviews are also conducted to analyze prospective VOBC clients’ situations and needs.

A consultant then assists with specific issues, or arranges consultation with others, such as accountants, lawyers, and other professionals. The SBDC can also provide guidance and direction as to the availability of various funding sources.

Numerous seminars, conferences and workshops are offered by the SBDC as well. These address topics ranging from financing, feasibility analysis, basic management techniques, financial analysis, business planning, marketing and sales, purchasing, accounting/record keeping, law and risk protection, marketing planning, and several others. Other services provided by the local SBDC include access to libraries containing information on specific issues, as well as access to business professionals.