Attention, small business owners, entrepreneurs, side hustlers, and dreamers! With a supportive community, an active local government, and engaged small business owners, Wylie might be just the place to turn your daydream into a day job, grow your business, and thrive as an entrepreneur.
Local business owners have access to a growing network of tools, resources, and support. Whether you’re just starting to think about launching something new or looking to scale an established business, here’s a look at some of the valuable small business resources in Wylie, Texas.
Local Organizations That Support Small Businesses in Wylie
Wylie Downtown Merchants Association
For businesses located in or interested in the historic downtown district, the Wylie Downtown Merchants Association (WDMA) offers opportunities to collaborate on events, promotions, and community engagement efforts – all in charming historic downtown Wylie. The group meets once a month and has several committees dedicated to marketing and advertising downtown businesses, events, and more. The group is a fun, close-knit group who all have experience running service and retail businesses in the downtown district.
Along with making some great friends and networking with others who are like-minded, members can take advantage of the great things the WDMA has to offer, like joint marketing initiatives, participation in some of Wylie’s most popular events, like the Pedal Car Race, and increased visibility through exclusive downtown events like February’s popular Cupid’s Crawl.
Being part of a merchant association can help small businesses tap into foot traffic and build stronger relationships within their immediate area, as well as keep a finger on the pulse of Wylie and participate in some really fun local events that are unique to the WDMA.
Wylie Area Chamber of Commerce
The Wylie Area Chamber of Commerce has been a cornerstone of the local business community for half a century. Membership provides access to networking events, educational opportunities, marketing exposure, and relationship-building with other business owners.
One thing the Chamber does really, really well is network. Chamber members get many opportunities to network with other business owners every single week with a calendar full of regularly scheduled events. The Chamber also provides some very unique ways to get in front of the community. Sponsors at the Wylie Championship Rodeo can attest to that as they see their business’s flag running around the arena held by a cowgirl on a galloping horse, or on the bucking chute right before it’s opened to release a giant bucking bull!
Along with the networking opportunities, Chamber members enjoy the perks of a published business directory, educational workshops and luncheons, and ribbon cuttings and grand opening promotions. If you’re looking to connect in the Wylie area, the Chamber is often one of the first places to start.
Wylie Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)
The forward-thinking Wylie Economic Development Corporation works to strengthen the local economy by supporting business growth, attracting new companies, and helping existing businesses expand. The EDC has helped local businesses grow and is responsible for bringing some large manufacturing companies to town.
If you’re scaling your business, looking for a new home for your company, opening a franchise, or have a creative idea, the EDC can support you by helping with site selection and relocation support as well as provide information about development opportunities. The EDC is also a deep source of local demographic and market data.
If you’re considering expanding your business or opening a new location in Wylie, the WEDC can be a valuable strategic partner in your journey (you can see some of the local small businesses the EDC has worked with by reading their Success Stories).
Rita & Truett Smith Public Library – Small Business Center
If you feel intimidated by the idea of approaching the EDC, or not quite ready to join the Chamber, you still have resources available to you as you sow the seeds of your future business. The Rita & Truett Smith Public Library has a Small Business Center that is loaded with helpful (and free!) tools to help any wannabe entrepreneur get their start.
The library’s Small Business Center offers tools to help you research and plan for your business, along with professional development tools to help you grow. You’ll have access to business and market research databases, legal and business form templates, and online classes. They also provide a quiet workspace and meeting area. All you need is a library card.
Wylie Might Be Your Small Business’s New Home
Wylie offers a supportive environment for small businesses, backed by organizations, resources, and a community that values and understands local entrepreneurship. Take advantage of these tools and connections to position yourself, and your business, for growth. Wylie has the resources to help you make it happen!