February 6, 2026
Free Support to Help Small Businesses Start and Grow
As the new year gets underway, many entrepreneurs are looking for practical ways to sharpen their skills and move their businesses forward. Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are an easily leveraged resource that offers industry-agnostic guidance on everything from startup planning and leadership development to marketing strategy and access to capital — helping ensure founders don’t have to navigate challenges alone.
In Utah, the SBDC network provides no-cost consulting with certified professionals, statewide connections, and free or low-cost training to support entrepreneurs at every stage, from idea to exit. Whether you prefer in-person help or virtual learning through the SBDC’s Entrepreneur Academy, the model is simple: show up ready to learn, and tap into a system designed to help Utah’s small businesses start stronger, grow smarter, and scale with confidence.
Musicbuff
Entrepreneurship and creativity often go hand in hand, and Zack Amaral’s journey is a clear example of where passion can lead. Inspired by his love of live music, Amaral founded Musicbuff, a platform that lets artists host interactive, live-streamed concerts while allowing fans to directly support performers through ticketed experiences — bringing the energy of a show straight into people’s homes.
Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology Nominations
Nominations are open for the 2026 Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology — a prestigious honor that recognizes individuals, companies, and organizations that are advancing scientific discovery, technological innovation, STEM education, and economic growth in Utah and beyond. The award celebrates achievements across three categories: Academic/Research, K-12 Education, and Individual or Company Industry.
Visit the Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology webpage to learn more or submit a candidate for nomination before the deadline on February 16th, 2026.
Utah is home to a wide range of grants and programs that connect entrepreneurs, startups, and nonprofits with the funding they need to grow and succeed. Whether launching a new venture or expanding your impact, explore what’s available:
Rural Employment Development Incentive
Q1 applications close Feb. 15, 2026
The Rural Employment Development Incentive (REDI) grant is designed to strengthen Utah’s rural economies by helping businesses create new, high-paying jobs in communities across the state. The program provides incentives of $4,000 to $6,000 per new position, depending on the employee’s physical location, making it a flexible option for companies expanding their teams.
The Return of Get Started: 2026’s First Winners
Do you have a business idea? Utah’s Get Started Business Idea Challenge encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into thriving businesses. After taking a hiatus at the end of 2025, Get Started has returned — offering a revamped approach to funding new business ideas.
Held in person on Jan. 27, 2026, at the inaugural Builder Day, the live pitch event invited five founders to compete for the chance to secure funding.
Thesis, a post-award grant financial management platform, was awarded $7,500 for taking the first-place judge vote. Additionally, tdooz, an app that manages, schedules, and delivers recurring and on-demand home services, earned $2,500 from winning the audience vote.
Learn about the winners and how you can join Utah’s dynamic startup community.
- The Return of Get Started: 2026’s First Winners
- Builder Day: Supporting Utah’s Entrepreneur Ecosystem
- Experience Live Music From the Comfort of Your Couch
- SBDCs: Free Support to Help Small Businesses Start and Grow
- ICYMI: January’s Newsletter
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