Many of the small businesses out there must be facing tough time in this economy to survive. The last thing on their mind is training their people to do better job or that matter consult from outside entity. Actually there is a solution to this and I would like to  share with you. There are several organization which are completely or partially funded by the federal government which provide services for free or  at subsidized rates. Here are links to a few:

SBDC For Enterprise Excellence Contact: Tom Pryor

Cross Timbers

TMAC

SBDC organizes  many free training courses for small business which could helpful to owners as well as managers. You can look at their event calender to register for an upcoming event. Another resource on the web for small businesses is the  SBA website.

Even though the times are tough, the help is out there it is up to us to seek for it and make best use of it.