Memphis, TNCar Dealership

Small Business Resources for Car Dealership in Memphis, TN

Find grants, SBA loans, and local resources for your Memphis, TN car dealership. Get support from the SBDC, SCORE, and Chamber of Commerce.

This guide provides a direct path to the essential resources for operating a successful car dealership in Memphis. Managing high-value inventory, navigating complex financing, and complying with state regulations are constant pressures we understand. Federal and local programs are available to help you grow, and this guide covers key Memphis organizations, funding sources, and practical tips to support your business.

Car dealership owners face significant capital challenges, including securing and managing costly floor plan financing for inventory and navigating Tennessee's strict motor vehicle dealer licensing requirements. Beyond finances, the constant need to recruit and retain skilled sales professionals and certified mechanics in a competitive market adds significant operational strain.

Local

Memphis Business Resources

The following organizations provide direct support, mentorship, and regulatory guidance for businesses operating in Memphis and across Tennessee.

Memphis Chamber of Commerce

Memphis Chamber drives regional economic growth and advocates for businesses across the Mid-South.

City of Memphis — Business Resources

Memphis city portal for business licensing, permits, development incentives, and local small business programs.

Tennessee

Tennessee State Resources

SBA Tennessee District Office

SBA programs and resources for Tennessee small businesses.

Tennessee SBDC

Free consulting and training for Tennessee entrepreneurs statewide.

SCORE Tennessee

Free mentoring for Tennessee business owners.

Funding & Grants

Financing for Car Dealership Businesses

Securing capital for inventory, property, and operations is crucial; SBA loan programs like the 7(a) and 504 are primary resources for dealerships, supplemented by potential economic development incentives from the state of Tennessee.

SBA 7(a) Loan Program

The SBA's primary loan program for small businesses. Borrow up to $5 million for working capital, equipment, or real estate.

SBA Microloan Program

Loans up to $50,000 for startups and early-stage small businesses. Lower barrier than traditional bank loans.

SBA 504 Loan Program

Federal Programs

SBA & National Resources

U.S. Small Business Administration

The federal agency dedicated to small business support — loans, grants, mentorship, and contracting.

SCORE — Free Business Mentoring

A network of 10,000+ volunteer business mentors offering free, confidential advice in-person and online.

Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)

Government-funded centers providing free consulting and low-cost training for small business owners.

Technology

AI Tools for Car Dealership Businesses

You can immediately integrate digital tools to enhance efficiency at your Memphis dealership. Use a modern Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to track leads and automate follow-ups. Implement an online scheduling tool for test drives and service appointments, and deploy a simple chatbot on your website to answer common questions about inventory and hours after your team has gone home.

Reputation Management

How Rviewo Helps

We built Rviewo to support local business owners like you who run a car dealership in Memphis. Our system uses a simple QR code to help you collect private customer feedback, giving you a chance to resolve issues while automatically guiding your happiest buyers to leave a positive Google review.

See How Your Memphis Car Dealership's Online Reputation Stacks Up

This free Rviewo audit reveals your online review performance compared to your top local competitors.

Get Your Free Audit

Looking for the best-rated Car Dealerships near you?

View the Top Car Dealerships in Memphis Ranking

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