Start a Business

Start Up Basics

From writing a business plan to filing necessary legal paperwork, the following resources help entrepreneurs get started on the right foot when you want to start a business.

• 10 Steps to Starting a Business
  
  Learn about the basics steps to take in order to legally start your business.
• Write a Business Plan
  
  Guides, courses and tools to help you write a winning business plan, including sample business plans.
• Find a Business Location
  
  Learn about state and local zoning laws, leasing restrictions, and advice for finding the best business location.
• Training and Assistance from the Experts
  
  Free online tools and resources and in-person services near you.

Business Types

Do you want to start a business at home? Do you want to start an online business? Are you working on a new high growth startup? Every type of business has unique starting and operating requirements and these guides help you understand them.

• Home Based Businesses
  
  Learn more about starting a home-based business and managing it within the law.
• Self-Employed or Independent Contractors
  
  Start up, financing, and legal information for self-employed and businesses without employees.
• Online Businesses
  
  Steps to plan and start a business on the web.
• Franchise Businesses
  
  How to start and buy a franchise business.
• Green Businesses
  
  Environmental regulations and benefits for “going green.”
• Import and Export Businesses
  
  Laws and regulations around starting an import or export business.
• Non-Profit Organization
  
  Government services to help non-profits find opportunities and finance their business.
• Startups and High Growth Businesses
  
  Resources to help entrepreneurs start, run, and expand a startup or high growth business.

Visit the Industries Guide for information on specific types of establishments, from retail stores and restaurants establishments to agriculture and manufacturing operations.