
Small Business Readiness Tool
Assess, Score, and Strengthen Small Business Readiness
The Problem
Many organizations lack a consistent way to understand the needs, strengths, and growth readiness of the small businesses they serve. Without clear insights, it becomes difficult to tailor support, prioritize investments, and measure outcomes.
This can lead to:
Limited visibility into business readiness and growth potential
One-size-fits-all programs that miss individual business needs
Inefficient allocation of advisory services and resources
Missed opportunities to support high-potential businesses
The takeaway: The challenge isn't simply reaching more businesses, it's understanding where they are today and what they need to succeed.

Our Approach
Next Street's Small Business Readiness Tool helps organizations assess business needs, prioritize support, and improve outcomes at scale.
We help organizations:
Standardize Assessments:
Evaluate businesses using a consistent readiness framework.
Understand Business Needs:
Identify strengths, gaps, and growth opportunities.
Prioritize Support:
Tailor resources, funding, and advisory services based on readiness.
Improve Program Effectiveness:
Deliver the right support to the right businesses.
Generate Actionable Insights:
Produce readiness scores, dashboards, and recommendations.
The result: Better-informed decisions, more personalized support, and stronger small business outcomes.
How It Works
For Organizations
1
Assess business readiness
2
Segment businesses by need and growth stage
3
Prioritize support and investments
4
Measure program performance and outcomes
For Small Businesses
Complete a readiness assessment
Receive a business readiness score
Identify strengths and growth opportunities
Access personalized recommendations and next steps
Selected Work & Insights
Next Street partners with corporations, government agencies, and philanthropic organizations to better understand the businesses they serve, improve program delivery, and strengthen small business outcomes.

Case Study
NYC Department of Small Business Services
Since 2012, Next Street has partnered with NYC SBS to expand access to business resources, capital, advising, and growth opportunities for entrepreneurs across New York City.

Case Study
Cook County Small Business Source
Cook County partnered with Next Street to create a coordinated small business support system that expanded access to capital, advising, and resources for entrepreneurs across the region.
Gain the insights needed to assess business readiness, personalize support, and improve the effectiveness of your small business programs.
