Small Business & Public Resources

There are numerous resources available to Americans interested in starting or growing their small businesses. The organizations below provide assistance ranging from educating prospective entrepreneurs to finding a qualified lender to advocating for small businesses in Washington.

The Small Business Administration

Created in 1953, the SBA is an independent agency of the federal government established to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns. Through a network of field offices and private and public partnerships, the SBA serves to help Americans start, build and grow businesses.

SBA Home Page

Start a Business

Plan a Business

Manage a Business

SBA Services

SBA Programs

SBA Tools

Small Business Counseling and Assistance

Small Business Online Training

Disaster Assistance

Local SBA Resources

Looking to start or expand a small business? Visit your local district office web site to find information on lending programs, counseling, training and business development.

Small Business Trade Associations

National Federation for Independent Businesses

National Association for the Self Employed

National Small Business Association

National Association of Manufacturers' Shop Floor Blog

Additional Small Business Resources

Small Business Guide to Government Grants and Loans

Government Contracting

Information for Minority-Owned Businesses

Information for Self Employed Individuals

Information for Veteran-Owned Businesses

Information for Women-Owned Businesses

Veterans in Business VA Site

Business Licenses and Permits

Information on Franchise and Business Opportunities

Information on Importing and Exporting

Patent and Trademark Information

Complying with Employment and Labor Laws

Employee Benefits

Tax Information for Small Businesses

IRS Tax Information for Businesses

Assistance with Tax Problems

Federal Government Forms