What is BizScoreline?
BizScoreline is a business assessment platform used by participating BASCs to evaluate business performance, identify growth opportunities, and create customized action plans for growth.
The assessment reviews six core areas of business operations:
Operations & Performance
Sales & Customers
Marketing
Financial Management
Human Resources
Technology
The results help business owners and advisors create a customized action plan designed to support long-term business success.
Find Your Business Assistance Service Center
Use the interactive map below to identify the BASC serving your region and connect with a business advisor.
Click a region to view BASC information
What Is a Historically Disadvantaged Business?
For purposes of the HDBA Microgrant Program, a historically disadvantaged business is a for-profit business that is at least 51% owned or controlled by one or more socially or economically disadvantaged individuals residing in Pennsylvania. The disadvantage may arise from cultural, racial, chronic economic circumstances, background, or other similar causes.
Historically disadvantaged individuals may include, but are not limited to:
Veterans
Women
LGBTQ+ individuals
Persons with disabilities
African Americans
Hispanic Americans
Asian Americans
Pacific Islanders
Native Americans
Other individuals who have experienced documented barriers to accessing financing or business assistance
Program Priorities
The Small Business Microgrant Program gives priority consideration to businesses that:
Are current or former borrowers or clients of participating BASCs or partner CDFIs
Generated less than $1 million in revenue during 2025
Were established within the past 24 months
Are located in a low-income census tract
Operate in counties with limited access to CDFI financing
The BACS Program Pathway
1
The BACS Program Pathway
Connect with the Business Assistance Service Center serving your region to begin the intake process and learn about available resources.
2
Complete a BizScoreline Assessment
Work with your BASC advisor to complete a comprehensive business assessment that evaluates key areas of business performance and identifies opportunities for growth.
3
Receive Technical Assistance
Participate in one-on-one coaching, workshops, training programs, and specialized business support services tailored to your needs.
4
Develop a Growth Strategy
Work with advisors to establish goals, address operational challenges, improve business readiness, and prepare for future growth opportunities.
5
Access Capital & Funding Opportunities
Receive guidance on financing options, loan readiness, grant opportunities, and connections to lenders, capital providers, and funding resources.
6
Implement & Grow
Put your growth strategy into action with ongoing support from your BASC and ecosystem partners.
Grant Awards
Eligible businesses may receive microgrant funding ranging from
$5,000 to $20,000
based on business size, demonstrated need, revenue, and program guidelines.
Microgrant funding may be used for a variety of business expenses, including:
Equipment & Machinery
Inventory & Supplies
Marketing & Advertising
Website Development & Technology
Professional Services
Licensing & Certification Costs
Insurance Expenses
Working Capital
Commercial Rent & Occupancy Costs
Other eligible business growth expenses
Final eligibility guidance and application requirements will be published with the application launch.
Small Business Microgrants
The Small Business Microgrant component of the BASC Program provides direct grant funding to eligible historically disadvantaged businesses throughout Pennsylvania. Microgrants are designed to help entrepreneurs implement growth strategies, strengthen operations, access new opportunities, and overcome barriers to business success.
Unlike loans, microgrants do not require repayment and may be used for a variety of business-related expenses that support business growth, stabilization, and expansion.
Businesses are encouraged to engage with their regional Business Assistance Service Center (BASC) to access technical assistance, business coaching, and guidance throughout the application process. BASC participation is not required to apply for a microgrant; however, businesses that engage with BASC services may receive technical assistance and support throughout the application process.
