{"id":5523,"date":"2016-04-04T10:48:00","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:48:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/starting-a-business-resources.html"},"modified":"2024-06-14T11:49:51","modified_gmt":"2024-06-14T16:49:51","slug":"starting-a-business-resources","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/starting-a-business-resources.html","title":{"rendered":"Starting a Business: Resources"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30  wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-section-main fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\">\n        <h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Starting a Business: Resources<\/h1>\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/natalie-moritz\/\">Natalie Moritz<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/amber-sheppard-esq\/\">Amber Sheppard, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last reviewed\n        <time>\n                            June 14, 2024\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-editorial-note fl-text-sm\">\n            <p>Editorial Note: We earn a commission from affiliate partner links on FindLaw. Commissions do not affect the editorial integrity of our legal content.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n<p>Starting a business is intimidating\u2014from securing startup capital and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/frequently-asked-questions-regarding-hiring-laws.html\" target=\"_self\">hiring the right people<\/a>&nbsp;to simply maintaining your stress levels. Thankfully, there are state and federal resources and nonprofit organizations that help the self-employed and support entrepreneurship.<\/p>\r\n<p>As a small business owner, you will likely need help, information, and guidance at some point. This article shares various available resources and information on how to access information online and from your local government, federal government, and other organizations. This page also points you to other helpful articles on FindLaw.<\/p>\r\n<p><b><i>Ready to form your LLC with confidence? <a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115288\/26746?subId1=starting-a-business-resources-in-content\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" data-cta=\"Biz LZ - LATL Callout\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" target=\"_blank\">Our trusted partner LegalZoom has packages starting at $0 + filing fees.<\/a><\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p>Learn where to find resources for:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Networking with potential business partners<\/li>\r\n<li>Applying for grants and other funding opportunities<\/li>\r\n<li>Writing a business plan<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2>Networking With Potential Business Partners<\/h2>\r\n<p>As you begin formulating your business launch, you may find you need help\u2014either with all or particular aspects of it. In situations like this, having a reliable business partner can be an asset.<\/p>\r\n<p>Finding a compatible business partner takes time and effort. One of your best strategies for locating a potential partner is through strategic networking events. If you live in a major metro area, you shouldn&#8217;t have a problem finding in-person events. You can also use online platforms (like&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">LinkedIn<\/a>) to find virtual networking events.<\/p>\r\n<p>The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.score.org\/find-mentor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Senior Core of Retired Executives<\/a>&nbsp;(SCORE) also provides mentor-matching services.<\/p>\r\n<p>Networking can feel uncomfortable. But it&#8217;s beneficial to have solid connections in place before<i>&nbsp;<\/i>something happens and you need to ask for help. Consider these ideas for authentic networking:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Connect with members of any industry-specific and professional organizations you belong to. Sending an email to introduce yourself or inviting someone to coffee can go a long way.<\/li>\r\n<li>If you have a trusted mentor, set up a meeting to see if they have any networking connections.<\/li>\r\n<li>Stay active in online forums related to your industry. Share expertise, ask questions, and connect with other business owners.<\/li>\r\n<li>Reach out to your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/state-guide-chambers-of-commerce.html\" target=\"_self\">local chamber of commerce<\/a>&nbsp;to see what resources they offer.<\/li>\r\n<li>Participate in workshops, classes, and professional development opportunities.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2>Applying for Small Business Grant Programs<\/h2>\r\n<p>Be on the lookout for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/small-business-grants.html\" target=\"_self\">small business grants<\/a>&nbsp;offered through economic development grant programs and local and state government agencies. A grant is free money that you aren&#8217;t required to repay like a loan. Grants are available for <a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=starting-a-business-resources&#038;auto-aff-non-profit\" class=\"diy-biz-affiliate\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" data-cta=\"Biz Auto LZ - LATL Txt\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" target=\"_blank\">nonprofits<\/a> and profit businesses.<\/p>\r\n<p>There are numerous small business grants for several types of eligible small businesses\u2014from government grants to private funding. Whether you plan to build a multi-billion dollar record label or&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-open-a-coffee-shop-and-stay-in-business.html\" target=\"_self\">run a neighborhood coffee shop<\/a>, you may find organizations willing to help you reach your goal by&nbsp;awarding grant money.<\/p>\r\n<p>Check with the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/funding-programs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Small Business Administration<\/a>&nbsp;(SBA) and your local&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/state-resources-starting-a-business.html\" target=\"_self\">Economic Development Center<\/a>&nbsp;for grant opportunities and assistance programs.<\/p>\r\n<p>Organizations have varying requirements that grant recipients must meet to qualify for their grant awards. Before starting the grant application process, ensure your location, industry, business size, and other criteria match their grant eligibility requirements.<\/p>\r\n<p>Depending on your industry and demographic, you may be eligible for more targeted grant funding:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.rd.usda.gov\/programs-services\/business-programs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">United States Department of Agriculture<\/a>&nbsp;(USDA) provides grants for agricultural and rural development businesses<\/li>\r\n<li>The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sbir.gov\/funding\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)<\/a>&nbsp;program through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has grant opportunities for small businesses focused on sustainability<\/li>\r\n<li>The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mbda.gov\/grants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Minority Business Development Agency<\/a>&nbsp;(MBDA) provides funding sources and support for minority-owned businesses<\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ifundwomen.com\/grants\/apply-for-grants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IFundWomen&nbsp;<\/a>connects women-owned business owners to various grants<\/li>\r\n<li>The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/ambergrantsforwomen.com\/get-an-amber-grant\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Amber Grant Foundation<\/a>&nbsp;awards grants to women entrepreneurs, including a specific grant targeting monthly rotating industries<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2>Securing Financing for Your Small Business<\/h2>\r\n<p>Financing options change across the lifecycle of a business. Entrepreneurs often&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/financing-a-business-faq.html\" target=\"_self\">fund their new business<\/a>&nbsp;through:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Their own bank account, savings, or personal credit cards<\/li>\r\n<li>Help from&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/getting-money-from-family-and-friends-for-a-business.html\" target=\"_self\">friends and family<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-finances\/how-to-start-a-business-with-no-money.html\" target=\"_self\">Crowdfunding<\/a>, investors, and venture capital<\/li>\r\n<li>Small business loans from banks, credit unions, or SBA<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Your ability to get loans and investors depends on the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/before-you-start-your-business-try-starting-a-business-plan.html\" target=\"_self\">strength of your business plan<\/a>&nbsp;and the value proposition of your product or service.<\/p>\r\n<p>Use the links at the end of this article to learn more about small business financing and how to attract lenders and investors.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Help With Writing a Business Plan<\/h2>\r\n<p>A business plan is your roadmap to long-term success. You might have a wonderful business idea, but lack the background for writing the specifics of a formal&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/business-plan-outline.html\" target=\"_self\">business plan<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>If you need assistance, there are several options out there that can help. You can always:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Conduct your own research with the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/business-guide\/plan-your-business\/write-your-business-plan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&nbsp;U.S. Small Business Administration<\/a>&nbsp;(SBA) or&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/state-resources-starting-a-business.html\" target=\"_self\">your local Small Business Development Center<\/a>&nbsp;(SBDC)<\/li>\r\n<li>Connect with colleagues in your industry who can coach you along the way<\/li>\r\n<li>Utilize business mentoring\u2014getting insight from an experienced business owner is powerful<\/li>\r\n<li>Use the numerous online tutorials and webinars available<\/li>\r\n<li>Hire a business attorney or another professional with expertise in writing business plans<\/li>\r\n<li>Use FindLaw&#8217;s&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/creating-a-business-plan.html\" target=\"_self\">Creating a Business Plan<\/a>&nbsp;section for guidance<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2>Business Registration and Taxes<\/h2>\r\n<p>Your best source of business registration information can come from your local&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/state-resources-starting-a-business.html\" target=\"_self\">Small Business Development Center<\/a>&nbsp;(SBDC). Chapters in states offer extensive opportunities to educate yourself on filing instructions, fees, and any additional requirements for your business.<\/p>\r\n<p>If you have tax-related questions, start with the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Internal Revenue Service<\/a>&nbsp;(IRS). They provide information on applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and selecting a business structure.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Finding a Business Attorney<\/h2>\r\n<p>While you may be able to do all this on your own, hiring a qualified business lawyer can ease the burden and help you avoid future problems. There are business situations where you may want to seek out legal help, especially if a large amount of capital is involved.<\/p>\r\n<p>A&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-commercial-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\">business attorney<\/a>&nbsp;in your area can provide crucial assistance in several aspects of your business, including:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Zoning compliance<\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/intellectual-property-law.html\" target=\"_self\">Intellectual property<\/a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/trademarks.html\" target=\"_self\">trademark advice<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/state-guide-forms-and-fees-for-business-formation.html\" target=\"_self\">Business incorporation<\/a>&nbsp;and liability<\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/employment-law-101.html\" target=\"_self\">Employer and hiring laws<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Reference the articles below to learn more about hiring legal help for your new business.<\/p>\r\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3418)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M6 21H3C2.46957 21 1.96086 20.7893 1.58579 20.4142C1.21071 20.0391 1 19.5304 1 19V12C1 11.4696 1.21071 10.9609 1.58579 10.5858C1.96086 10.2107 2.46957 10 3 10H6M13 8V4C13 3.20435 12.6839 2.44129 12.1213 1.87868C11.5587 1.31607 10.7956 1 10 1L6 10V21H17.28C17.7623 21.0055 18.2304 20.8364 18.5979 20.524C18.9654 20.2116 19.2077 19.7769 19.28 19.3L20.66 10.3C20.7035 10.0134 20.6842 9.72068 20.6033 9.44225C20.5225 9.16382 20.3821 8.90629 20.1919 8.68751C20.0016 8.46873 19.7661 8.29393 19.5016 8.17522C19.2371 8.0565 18.9499 7.99672 18.66 8H13Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                              stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><\/path>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n    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11.4432C19.7859 11.8119 19.236 12.01 18.67 12H16M9.00003 14V18C9.00003 18.7956 9.3161 19.5587 9.87871 20.1213C10.4413 20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"was-this-helpful__taken-action fl-text-sm-bold\"><\/span>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-container\">\n        <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n            <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <form class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form\">\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--positive\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                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