Small businesses and entrepreneurs are vital to the economic prosperity of this country.  The federal government has set up various departments, initiatives, and services to assist them. 

CommerceConnect is a U.S. Department of Commerce initiative aimed at making businesses more competitive and creating jobs by bringing all of the Department’s services together under one roof.  CommerceConnect can assist businesses in Alabama with a diverse range of needs by linking them to the Department’s agencies including:

• Economic Development Agency: www.eda.gov
• International Trade Administration: www.trade.gov
• U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: www.uspto.gov
• Minority Business Enterprise Centers: www.mbda.gov

For more information, visit www.commerceconnect.gov

The U.S. Small Business Administration offers a variety of services, including financial assistance, counseling, and online training to help Americans start, build, and grow businesses.  The Administration’s Business.gov website provides information on starting, registering, and running a business, as well as on loans, grants, and business-related laws. Alabamians can contact the U.S. Small Business Administration at www.sba.gov or

SBA Alabama District Office
801 Tom Martin Drive, Suite 201
Birmingham, AL 35211
Phone:  (205) 290-7101
Fax:  (205) 290-7404

The U.S. Department of Labor also offers employers information and services to help small businesses navigate applicable laws and regulations.  Wage earners, job seekers, and retirees can also find valuable information regarding work-related benefits and rights.  Contact the U.S. Department of Labor at www.dol.gov. More information on services and resources from the U.S. government, visit the official web portal, www.USA.gov.

For more information on services and resources from the U.S. government, visit the official web portal, www.USA.gov.