Free Resources for Rural Entrepreneurs
Marketing tools, brand templates, and content strategies—created for small-town founders building real businesses.
At Founder's Collective, we know rural business owners are short on time but big on ideas. That’s why we’ve created a growing library of free resources to help you show up consistently, market with confidence, and stay rooted in your mission—all without burnout or overthinking.
Whether you're just starting out or you're ready to refresh your brand, these tools are designed to be clear, practical, and actually useful for small-town entrepreneurs.
No fluff. No corporate jargon. Just honest strategy that works when you're doing all the things
Free Tools to Grow Your Business
The Rural Founder's Quick-Start Brand Guide
Define your mission, voice, and visuals - all in one simple worksheet.
Perfect for solo entrepreneurs or small teams who need clarity before diving into design or marketing.
Small Business SEO Checklist
A no-nonsense guide to help rural business owners understand and improve their online presence.
This checklist walks you through the basics of visibility, keywords and simple SEO wins that don't require a tech degree.
The $100 Marketing Plan
Here's a quick-start guide to a simple, budget-friendly $100 marketing plan for small businesses.
With just $100, make smart investments and build visibility and trust through authentic storytelling.
Story-telling Prompts for Rural Entrepreneurs
Download a step-by-step resource to help uncover and share your unique business stories.
This resource highlights using guided prompts and introduces a storytelling framework to craft authentic narratives for use on websites, social media, or podcasts.
Off-Season Action Plan
For entrepreneurs who want to use the quiet wisely.
Use this as a reset - not just to stay busy, but to move forward intentionally. Choose 1-2 tasks per section to take action this week.
What to Do in a Quiet Season
Practical ideas for a slow month
Quiet times don't have to mean lost momentum.
Business Archetype Builder
Build a clear picture of your ideal client
A guided worksheet that helps entrepreneurs define their ideal client and sharpen marketing focus.
For even more clarity, see our Ideal Client Worksheet.
Ideal Client Worksheet
Get clear, get clients.
This worksheet helps you identify your ideal client so you can attract, connect with, and convert the people who truly need what you offer.
Why These Resources Matter
Rural entrepreneurs don’t always have access to business incubators, in-person workshops, or marketing teams; and that’s exactly why these resources exist.
Every download here is crafted by Stone House Digital, backed by years of real client experience, and built with rural realities in mind.
No matter where you’re starting from, this page is your launchpad.
You don’t need a big team, you just need the right tools.
Rural Business Resource Partners
Because building a business in a small town doesn’t mean doing it alone.
In addition to our downloads, here are some of the best statewide and national resources available to rural entrepreneurs, small business owners, and founders across Wisconsin and beyond.
These organizations offer free or low-cost education, coaching, funding support, and more.
No matter if you're looking for help with financing, business planning, or growth strategy, these partners have your back.
Wisconsin-Based Resources
WWBIC offers business education, financial resources, and support for women, veterans, and underserved entrepreneurs. Their one-on-one business coaching and funding programs are an incredible asset for rural founders.
Get expert guidance at no cost. SBDC advisors help with business plans, financial projections, marketing strategy, and more—tailored to your local market and industry.
A statewide initiative focused on boosting rural communities and the businesses that power them. Explore grant opportunities, broadband initiatives, and programs designed to fuel long-term success.
Local support with a personal touch. Envision GFDL supports business growth in Waupun, Ripon, Campbellsport, and beyond. Their IGNITE program offers education, coaching, and funding guidance for early-stage businesses.
National Resources Worth Bookmarking
Free business mentoring and education from experienced entrepreneurs across the U.S. SCORE offers webinars, templates, and one-on-one coaching for every business stage.
A digital hub for small businesses, offering funding opportunities, education, and community—especially helpful for women, veteran, and BIPOC-owned businesses.
Feel Overwhelming?
Want Help Navigating All This?
Send us a message or join our email list. We’ll share updates on grants, rural programs, and upcoming opportunities tailored to rural founders just like you.