Business Resources
Free Local Help
You don’t have to figure it out alone. These organizations serve Northwest Indiana businesses and will sit down with you one-on-one, at no cost. Not sure who to call? Start with the Chamber at (219) 659-0292 and we’ll point you the right way.
Northwest Indiana SBDC
Free one-on-one advising from experienced business advisors on starting, funding and growing your business, plus regular startup workshops.
- Business plans and startup budgets
- Loan and funding preparation
- Growth, hiring and new markets
9800 Connecticut Dr., Crown Point, IN 46307
(219) 644-3513
SCORE Northwest Central Indiana
A free, experienced mentor for as long as you need one, plus free webinars on pricing, funding, taxes and more. Service area includes Lake County and Hammond.
- One-on-one mentoring, free for the life of your business
- Free live and recorded webinars
- Help testing an idea or writing a plan
162 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 654-2630
WorkOne Northwest Indiana
Free help finding, screening and training employees, including job postings, hiring events and on-the-job training support. Offices include Hammond.
- Free job postings and candidate screening
- Hiring events
- Training support for new hires
Business Services
employersolutions@gotoworkonenw.com
Purdue Extension: Digital Ready Businesses
Workshops and webinars that teach Indiana business owners to get found online, use social media and email, and track results, with an optional certificate.
- Getting listed on Google and online directories
- Social media and email basics
- Measuring what works
Sessions scheduled by county
Ask Purdue Extension, Lake County
Getting the most from a free advisor
- Bring one clear question, like “Can I afford to open?” or “Why aren’t customers finding me?”
- Bring what you have: an idea summary, a rough budget, or your last few months of numbers.
- Leave with one next step and book the follow-up before you go.
Where to next?
Please note: These educational resources come from outside organizations. The Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce does not control their content or endorse any product or service, and nothing here is legal, tax, financial, or employment advice. Check details with the provider or a qualified professional. Links last checked October 2026.