Entrepreneurship

From knowing the ins and outs of the state in which you live, to understanding intellectual property, to writing a business plan, to finding investors, to creating a marketing strategy... phew! Starting your own business can be daunting. Listed on this page and sub-pages are resources and tips to get you started.

Small Business Administration
The SBA support small businesses by connecting entrepreneurs with lenders and funding to help them plan, start, and grow their business. Topics on the organization's website include:

• Planning your business - market research and competitive analysis, writing a business plan, calculating start-up costs
• Launching your business - picking a business location, choosing a business structure, registering your business, choosing a name
• Managing your business - managing your finances, hiring and managing employees, paying taxes
• Growing your business - getting more funding, expanding to new locations, resources for women-owned businesses

Minnesota's Department of Employment and Economic Development
"Starting a business in Minnesota is not a single decision but a series of them, each one an important step on the road to a successful launch." Throughout these pages, Minnesota's Department of Employment and Economic Development answers pressing questions about starting a business in our state. Including:

• Organizing a business
• Writing a business plan
• Accounting and income forecasting
• Business finance basics
• Licenses and permits
• Management basics

Small Business Development Centers
Minnesota has nine regional SBDC offices throughout the state to assist small business owners. They provide professional expertise and guidance through consulting services, trainings, and more.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce
From Google, to Amazon, to LinkedIn, many organizations provide support and online tools for small business owners and employees. Take advantage of the free resources listed here, compiled by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce!