You are HereSBA.gov » Starting & Managing a Business
Starting & Managing a Business
Content - Starting and Managing a Business Section's landing page
Starting a Business
Are you thinking about starting a business of your own? Explore the topics below to learn the aspects of starting a business, plus find information you need to succeed.
Thinking About Starting a Business?
Starting a business is an exciting proposition, but it’s also an incredibly challenging undertaking. The resources in this section will help you learn about what it takes to start a business.
Create Your Business Plan
A business plan is an essential roadmap for business success. This living document generally projects 3-5 years ahead and outlines the route a company intends to take to grow revenues.
Choose Your Business Structure
The business structure you choose will have legal and tax implications. Learn about the different types of business structures and find the one best suited for your business.
Choose & Register Your Business
Choosing and registering your business name is a key step to legally operating your business and potentially obtaining financial aid from the government.
Obtain Business Licenses & Permits
To run your business legally, there are certain federal and state licenses and permits you will need to obtain. These resources will help you understand the requirements for your small business.
Learn About Business Law & Regulations
As a small business owner, you are subject to some of the laws and regulations that apply to large corporations. These resources can help you understand which requirements do apply to your business.
Finance Your Business
Improve your odds of business success by understanding your financing needs as well as the options that are available to help you start, manage and grow your business.
Explore Loans, Grants & Funding
You have a variety of options when it comes to financing your small business. Explore your opportunities that range from traditional loans to grants and bonds.
Filing & Paying Taxes
Find out if your business needs to obtain a tax ID and what the benefits and requirements are.
Choose Your Location & Equipment
These resources can help ensure your small business is compliant with leasing terms and zoning ordinances. It also provides information about buying or leasing equipment or buying government surplus.
Hire & Retain Employees
Ready to hire employees for your business? Learn about employment and labor laws to make sure your business is in compliance.
Managing a Business
Explore the topics below to find information and guidance that will help you manage and grow your business effectively.
Leading Your Company
Are you ready to lead your company to success? Determine if you have key characteristics that will allow you to excel in a leadership role.
Growing Your Business
Are you ready to expand your business? Planning and preparing for new challenges is one step in the process. Find out how you can successfully grow your company.
Exporting & Importing
Small businesses looking to increase sales and profit are taking their businesses global. SBA provides counseling, training and financing to support small business export opportunities.
Running a Business
You've established your business, so what's next? This section highlights what you need to know — from sales to human resources — to run your business and succeed.
Business Law & Regulations
You don’t have to be a lawyer to open and run a small business. Find out how to handle day-to-day legal issues that could affect your small business.
Getting Out
Are you leaving your business? Maybe you are retiring or handing your business to a relative? Whatever the reason, be smart about how you make your exit.
Business Guides by Industry
Explore information about a variety of industries. Find invaluable information targeted to your specific line of business.
Local Resources
SBA provides small business counseling and training through a variety of programs and resource partners across the country. Check out the resources that are available to you and your business!
Forms
The process of starting and managing a business requires a lot of analysis and paperwork. SBA has just about every resource you’ll need.
