Long Beach Small Business Development Center in Long Beach: SBDC Support – Official Customer Support Customer Care Number | Toll Free Number

The Long Beach Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a cornerstone of economic empowerment in Southern California, offering free, confidential, and expert business advisory services to entrepreneurs, startups, and established small businesses alike. As part of the national network of SBDCs funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Long Beach SBDC has grown into a vital resource hub for innovation, job creation, and community resilience. Whether you’re launching your first bakery, scaling a tech startup, or navigating post-pandemic recovery, the Long Beach SBDC provides tailored guidance, training, and access to capital—making it one of the most trusted and impactful small business support systems in the region.

Founded in 1983, the Long Beach SBDC has served over 35,000 entrepreneurs and helped create or retain more than 12,000 jobs in Los Angeles County. Its mission is simple yet powerful: to foster sustainable business growth by removing barriers to success. From one-on-one consulting to workshops on digital marketing, financial planning, and government contracting, the center’s services span every stage of the business lifecycle. Unlike traditional business consultants, the Long Beach SBDC operates with no fees, no sales pitches, and no hidden costs—making it uniquely accessible to underrepresented communities, minority-owned businesses, veterans, and women entrepreneurs.

Today, the center supports a diverse range of industries, including healthcare services, food and beverage, logistics and distribution, clean energy, creative arts, e-commerce, and advanced manufacturing. Its strategic location in Long Beach—a major port city with global trade connections—positions it as a gateway for import/export businesses and international entrepreneurs seeking to establish a foothold in the U.S. market. With a dedicated team of certified business advisors, industry specialists, and SBA partners, the Long Beach SBDC doesn’t just offer advice—it builds legacies.

Why Long Beach Small Business Development Center in Long Beach: SBDC Support – Official Customer Support is Unique

The Long Beach Small Business Development Center stands apart from other business support organizations due to its deeply integrated, client-centered, and hyper-local approach. While many consulting firms charge hundreds of dollars per hour and prioritize profit over progress, the Long Beach SBDC operates under a public-service mandate: to ensure that every entrepreneur, regardless of background or budget, has access to world-class business guidance.

One of its most distinctive features is the depth and breadth of its advisory team. Each advisor is not only certified by the SBA but also brings years of real-world business experience—many are former CEOs, CFOs, or industry executives who left corporate roles to serve the community. This means clients don’t get theoretical advice; they get battle-tested strategies from people who’ve navigated supply chain disruptions, funding crises, and market shifts firsthand.

Another unique advantage is the center’s integration with local, state, and federal resources. The Long Beach SBDC maintains direct partnerships with the City of Long Beach Economic Development Department, the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), and the SBA’s 7(a) loan program. This allows advisors to expedite applications for grants, tax credits, and low-interest loans—something most private consultants cannot do. For example, a restaurant owner seeking pandemic recovery funds can receive help filling out SBA EIDL applications, connecting with local lenders, and even drafting a compelling business plan—all in a single visit.

Additionally, the center prioritizes equity and inclusion. Over 60% of its clients are minority-owned businesses, and nearly half are led by women. The SBDC offers specialized programs for veteran entrepreneurs, LGBTQ+ business owners, and individuals re-entering the workforce after incarceration. Its multilingual staff (fluent in Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese, and Tagalog) ensures language is never a barrier to support. This commitment to accessibility has earned the center multiple awards, including the SBA’s National SBDC Outstanding Program Award in 2021.

Unlike generic online business courses or templated coaching platforms, the Long Beach SBDC delivers personalized, long-term relationships. Clients are assigned a primary advisor who stays with them for months or even years, tracking progress, adjusting strategies, and celebrating milestones. This continuity is rare in the business support world—and it’s why 87% of clients report increased revenue and 92% say they would recommend the center to others.

Finally, the center’s physical and virtual accessibility sets it apart. With multiple satellite locations across Long Beach and neighboring cities, free parking, evening and weekend appointments, and a fully digital client portal, the Long Beach SBDC meets entrepreneurs where they are—literally and figuratively. Whether you’re a single mom running an Etsy shop from her kitchen or a manufacturing owner scaling to 50 employees, the center adapts to your needs—not the other way around.

Long Beach Small Business Development Center in Long Beach: SBDC Support – Official Customer Support Toll-Free and Helpline Numbers

If you’re seeking immediate assistance, expert advice, or simply want to schedule your first consultation, the Long Beach Small Business Development Center offers multiple direct channels to connect with its team. The official toll-free number for all SBDC services in the Long Beach region is:

Toll-Free Helpline: 1-800-545-5557

This number is staffed Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, with extended hours during peak seasons (such as tax season or grant application windows). Calls are answered by trained intake specialists who can route you to the appropriate advisor based on your industry, business stage, or language preference.

In addition to the toll-free line, the center maintains a local customer service line for those within the Long Beach area:

Local Customer Support: (562) 985-1777

This number is ideal for scheduling in-person appointments at the main office located at 1111 East 4th Street, Long Beach, CA 90813. The local line also connects callers to the SBDC’s Business Resource Center, where walk-in clients can access computers, printing services, and self-help kiosks for business plan templates, market research databases, and licensing guides.

For urgent matters outside business hours, the center offers a 24/7 automated voicemail system with callback options. Simply leave your name, phone number, business type, and a brief description of your need, and an advisor will return your call within 24 hours. For non-urgent inquiries, email support is also available at info@longbeachsbdc.org.

It’s important to note that the Long Beach SBDC is an official SBA partner, and these contact numbers are verified on the SBA’s national website (sba.gov/local-assistance). Be cautious of third-party websites or call centers claiming to represent the SBDC—they are not affiliated. Always verify contact details through the official SBDC network portal or the City of Long Beach’s official business resources page.

For Spanish-speaking clients, a dedicated bilingual line is available at 1-800-545-5557, option 2. Vietnamese and Mandarin speakers can request interpreter services by calling the toll-free number and selecting language preference during the automated menu.

How to Reach Long Beach Small Business Development Center in Long Beach: SBDC Support – Official Customer Support Support

Reaching the Long Beach Small Business Development Center is designed to be as seamless and inclusive as possible. Whether you prefer to speak on the phone, visit in person, or connect digitally, multiple pathways ensure you can access support on your terms.

Phone Support

As outlined above, the toll-free number (1-800-545-5557) and local line ((562) 985-1777) are the fastest ways to begin your journey. Callers are greeted by a live representative who will ask for basic information: your name, business type, stage of development (idea, startup, established), and your primary need (funding, marketing, legal, etc.). Within minutes, you’ll be scheduled for a free 60-minute consultation with a certified advisor.

In-Person Visits

The main office is located at 1111 East 4th Street, Long Beach, CA 90813, in the heart of downtown Long Beach, just steps from the Long Beach Transit Center and the 710 Freeway. The building is ADA-compliant, with free parking available in the adjacent lot and bike racks on-site. Walk-ins are welcome Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., though appointments are strongly encouraged to ensure advisor availability. You can also visit the satellite location at the Long Beach Public Library’s Business Resource Center (1111 East Ocean Blvd) for drop-in hours every Wednesday from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Virtual Consultations

The Long Beach SBDC offers Zoom and Microsoft Teams video appointments for clients who prefer remote support. These sessions are ideal for entrepreneurs outside the immediate area, those with mobility challenges, or businesses operating in multiple locations. To schedule a virtual meeting, call the toll-free number, email info@longbeachsbdc.org, or visit the online appointment portal at longbeachsbdc.org/appointments.

Online Resources

The center’s website is a comprehensive self-service hub featuring:

• Free downloadable business plan templates
• On-demand webinars on topics like “How to Get Your First 100 Customers” and “Understanding SBA Loans”
• Interactive funding finder tool that matches your business to grants and loans
• Directory of local suppliers, co-working spaces, and incubators
• FAQs and glossary of business terms

Community Outreach Events

The SBDC regularly hosts free workshops, networking mixers, and pitch competitions across Long Beach, Lakewood, and Compton. Events are promoted via email newsletter, social media (@LongBeachSBDC on Facebook and Instagram), and local partnerships with chambers of commerce. Past events have included “Latino Entrepreneur Day,” “Women in Tech Summit,” and “Green Business Expo,” drawing hundreds of attendees each.

For businesses in need of urgent assistance—such as applying for disaster relief or responding to a sudden regulatory change—the center offers a Rapid Response Team. To activate this service, call the toll-free number and request “Rapid Response,” or email support@longbeachsbdc.org with “URGENT” in the subject line.

Worldwide Helpline Directory

While the Long Beach Small Business Development Center primarily serves Southern California, its model and resources are part of a global network of small business support organizations. For entrepreneurs outside the U.S. seeking similar services, here is a curated directory of official SBDC equivalents and business support centers worldwide:

• United States: All 50 states and territories have an SBDC network. Visit sba.gov/local-assistance to find your nearest center.
• Canada: Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) – Toll-free: 1-800-267-7225 | Website: bdc.ca
• United Kingdom: Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) – Helpline: 0300 011 0202 | Website: fsb.org.uk
• Australia: Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) – Helpline: 1300 650 460 | Website: asbfeo.gov.au
• Germany: IHK (Chambers of Industry and Commerce) – Find your local chamber at ihk.de
• Japan: Japan Small and Medium Enterprise Agency (SMEA) – Helpline: 0570-00-7110 | Website: smec.go.jp
• India: National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) – Helpline: 1800-180-1122 | Website: nsic.co.in
• Brazil: Sebrae (Brazilian Service of Support for Micro and Small Enterprises) – Helpline: 0800-570-0800 | Website: sebrae.com.br
• South Africa: Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) – Helpline: 0800 723 322 | Website: seda.org.za
• Mexico: Nacional Emprendedor (Instituto Nacional del Emprendedor) – Helpline: 01-800-500-7000 | Website: inadem.gob.mx

These organizations offer services similar to the Long Beach SBDC: free consulting, training, access to funding, and market intelligence. While they are not directly affiliated with the Long Beach center, they follow the same public-service philosophy and often collaborate on international trade initiatives.

For U.S.-based businesses looking to export or expand globally, the Long Beach SBDC partners with the U.S. Commercial Service and the Export-Import Bank to provide international trade counseling. Call the toll-free number and ask for “Export Assistance” to be connected to a trade specialist.

About Long Beach Small Business Development Center in Long Beach: SBDC Support – Official Customer Support – Key Industries and Achievements

The Long Beach SBDC has played a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape of the region by empowering businesses across a wide spectrum of industries. Its impact is not measured solely in numbers, but in the transformation of individual lives and the revitalization of neighborhoods.

Key Industries Supported:

Food & Beverage

Long Beach’s vibrant culinary scene has been fueled by SBDC support. From food trucks to ethnic restaurants, the center has helped over 800 food entrepreneurs navigate health codes, licensing, and supply chain logistics. Notable success stories include “Taco El Rey,” a family-owned taco stand that grew into a multi-location chain with over $2 million in annual revenue after receiving SBDC training on digital marketing and franchise scaling.

Logistics & Port-Related Services

As home to the Port of Long Beach—the second-busiest port in the U.S.—the region is a hub for shipping, warehousing, and freight forwarding. The SBDC has partnered with the port authority to offer specialized training in international trade compliance, customs documentation, and cold-chain logistics. Over 300 logistics firms have received SBDC assistance, leading to a 40% increase in small business participation in port contracts since 2018.

Healthcare & Wellness

The center has been instrumental in supporting independent clinics, telehealth startups, and holistic wellness centers. During the pandemic, the SBDC helped 120 healthcare providers pivot to virtual services, secure PPP loans, and implement HIPAA-compliant software. Today, it supports mental health practitioners, mobile massage therapists, and medical device innovators.

Clean Energy & Sustainability

With California’s aggressive climate goals, the SBDC has become a go-to resource for green entrepreneurs. It offers training on solar installation licensing, EV charging station permitting, and sustainable packaging. One client, “EcoPack LA,” developed compostable food containers using agricultural waste and secured $150,000 in state green grants—with SBDC guidance.

E-Commerce & Digital Services

The rise of online retail has been met with robust SBDC support. The center runs a monthly “E-Commerce Accelerator” program that teaches entrepreneurs how to build Shopify stores, run Facebook ads, manage inventory, and use AI tools for customer service. Since 2020, over 1,500 e-commerce businesses have launched or scaled with SBDC help.

Major Achievements:

• Helped launch over 5,000 new businesses since 2010
• Facilitated over $220 million in financing for small businesses (including SBA loans, grants, and private investment)
• Created or retained more than 12,000 jobs in Los Angeles County
• Recognized by the SBA as a “National Model Program” for outreach to underserved communities
• Partnered with Long Beach City College to offer credit-bearing entrepreneurship courses
• Hosted over 500 free workshops and events annually, reaching more than 10,000 attendees
• Launched the first “Veteran-Owned Business Incubator” in Southern California, with 80% of graduates still operating after three years

One of the center’s most celebrated achievements is the “Long Beach Small Business Resilience Initiative,” launched during the pandemic. This program provided emergency grants of up to $10,000 to businesses that lost 50% or more of their revenue. Over 600 businesses received funding, and 94% remained open after 18 months—a rate far exceeding the national average.

Global Service Access

While the Long Beach Small Business Development Center’s physical presence is rooted in Southern California, its impact extends far beyond geographic borders through digital tools, international partnerships, and multilingual outreach.

Entrepreneurs from around the world can access the center’s resources remotely. Its entire library of business plan templates, webinar recordings, and funding guides is available in English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Vietnamese on its website. The center also maintains a YouTube channel with over 150 instructional videos—viewed by users in over 80 countries.

For international entrepreneurs seeking to establish a U.S. business entity, the Long Beach SBDC offers specialized “Startup Visa & Immigration” workshops in collaboration with immigration attorneys and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These sessions cover E-2 investor visas, L-1 intracompany transfers, and O-1 visas for extraordinary ability—helping foreign founders navigate the complex U.S. legal landscape.

The center also partners with global trade organizations like the International Trade Administration (ITA) and the World Trade Centers Association to connect Long Beach businesses with export opportunities in Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. In 2023, the SBDC facilitated 12 trade missions to Vietnam, Mexico, and Colombia, helping 45 local companies secure over $15 million in export contracts.

Additionally, the SBDC’s digital client portal includes a “Global Business Toolkit” with downloadable resources on cross-border taxation, currency exchange, international shipping regulations, and cultural negotiation tips. This toolkit is used by U.S. entrepreneurs exporting abroad and by foreign nationals researching U.S. market entry.

Even if you’re not located in California, you can still benefit from the Long Beach SBDC’s expertise. Simply call the toll-free number (1-800-545-5557), request remote assistance, and specify your country of origin. The team will connect you with the right advisor, provide translated materials, and guide you through the next steps—whether that’s forming an LLC, applying for an EIN, or understanding U.S. consumer protection laws.

FAQs

Is the Long Beach Small Business Development Center really free?

Yes. All one-on-one consulting, workshops, training, and resources provided by the Long Beach SBDC are completely free of charge. The center is funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration, the State of California, and local partners—so there are no fees for clients.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to use SBDC services?

No. The Long Beach SBDC serves all entrepreneurs, regardless of immigration status. Non-citizens, including visa holders and undocumented business owners, are welcome and protected under confidentiality policies.

How long does it take to get an appointment?

Most clients can schedule an appointment within 2–5 business days. For urgent needs, the Rapid Response Team can connect you within 24 hours.

Can the SBDC help me get a business loan?

Yes. The SBDC does not lend money directly but provides free assistance in preparing loan applications, selecting the right lender, and improving your creditworthiness. They have relationships with over 50 local banks and credit unions that prioritize SBDC-referred clients.

What if I don’t know what kind of business to start?

The SBDC offers a “Business Idea Assessment” session where advisors help you evaluate your skills, interests, and market opportunities. They’ll guide you through market research, competitor analysis, and feasibility testing—even if you’re just starting with a vague idea.

Are there services for home-based businesses?

Absolutely. Over 40% of SBDC clients operate from home. The center helps with zoning compliance, home office deductions, branding, and scaling home-based operations into full businesses.

Can I get help with taxes or accounting?

Yes. The SBDC partners with certified public accountants (CPAs) who offer free tax planning and bookkeeping guidance. They can also help you choose between sole proprietorship, LLC, or S-Corp structures based on your goals.

Do you help nonprofits or social enterprises?

Yes. The Long Beach SBDC supports 501(c)(3) organizations, B-Corps, and mission-driven businesses with funding strategies, grant writing, and operational efficiency.

What happens after my first consultation?

You’ll be assigned a primary advisor who will follow up with you via email or phone. You can schedule additional appointments as needed—there’s no limit. Many clients return for help with hiring, expansion, or new product launches.

How do I know if a call or email is really from the SBDC?

Always verify contact information through the official website: longbeachsbdc.org. The SBDC will never ask for your Social Security number, bank login, or payment upfront. If you’re unsure, call the toll-free number to confirm.

Conclusion

The Long Beach Small Business Development Center is more than a service provider—it’s a catalyst for economic justice, innovation, and community strength. In a world where small businesses are often overlooked or underserved, the SBDC stands as a beacon of accessibility, expertise, and unwavering commitment to success. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur in Compton, a veteran launching a cybersecurity startup in Lakewood, or an immigrant family opening a grocery store in downtown Long Beach, the center meets you where you are—with no judgment, no fees, and no limits.

Its toll-free number, 1-800-545-5557, is not just a line—it’s a lifeline. A connection to decades of experience, a network of local partners, and a promise that no dream is too small to be supported. The achievements of the Long Beach SBDC speak volumes: 12,000 jobs created, $220 million in capital unlocked, and thousands of lives transformed. But behind every statistic is a story—a mother who turned her home-cooked tamales into a thriving food brand, a mechanic who expanded his shop after learning how to bid on city contracts, a tech graduate who built an app that now serves 50,000 users nationwide.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your business journey, don’t wait. Don’t overthink it. Don’t believe the myth that “you need money to make money.” The Long Beach SBDC exists to prove that wrong. Call today. Visit. Learn. Grow. Your business—and your community—deserve nothing less.