Impact of Counseling on Small Business Performance

Abstract

This paper assesses the effect of the Small Business Institute's counseling program at the University of Lowell on small business performance as perceived by client firms located in New England. In analyzing data gathered from a population of 52 firms, the authors initially classify recommendations made by counseling teams for the purpose of improving business operations. The impact of the suggestions is examined primarily by considering various dimensions of their implementation. After weighing results of an evaluation of the counseling service as discerned by the client firms, the authors summarize their findings and draw conclusions.