8 free resources on this topic. Everything here is free and hand-picked. You can also search within this topic.
Retail shift work through an app. Workers are W-2 employees of WorkReflex, and signup includes an interview, background check and I-9.
Why I recommend it: W-2 status means taxes are withheld and you are covered by workers' comp. The signup has more steps than most apps, so allow a few days.
Free SCORE webinar, sponsored by GS1 US, on how barcode data supports inventory management, e-commerce, and scaling across retail sales channels.
Details: Time-sensitive: this runs the day after this list was compiled (Sept 29, 1pm EDT), so register immediately if it's relevant.
A free student case competition from the NRF Foundation: teams solve a real retail problem for scholarship money and a trip to NRF's annual event.
From the site: All of the details you need to participate in the University Retail Challenge and compete for the $30,000 scholarship.
Details: Case competitions are the fastest way to get a real business problem on your resume when no one will hire you yet.
Free training on selling wholesale as an independent maker, covering outreach, pricing, and retail relationships.
Why I recommend it: The outreach scripts here translate well beyond wholesale, honestly.
Free supplier profiles that let emerging brands submit products to retail buyers and category managers.
Why I recommend it: Set up the free profile before you chase paid tiers. See if buyers engage first.
Free application for makers and small brands to sell wholesale to independent retailers through Faire.
Why I recommend it: If you make a physical product, wholesale marketplaces are often a faster first channel than paid ads.
AI-powered inventory and listing platform for ecommerce sellers, helping small businesses manage products, optimize listings, and automate store operations.
Why I recommend it: Good for founders who want to spend less time on listing busywork and more time on product and customer conversations.
Google's 2026 retail marketing playbook on how AI search is changing holiday shopping, with consumer behavior data, channel guidance, and campaign checklists for the peak season.
Why I recommend it: The numbers in here are the argument for rethinking how customers find you. Even if you run a one-person shop, chapter one is worth your afternoon.
Created by Google
