Small Business Resources

As your representative, Congressman Lipinski supports efforts to encourage the creation of new small businesses and growth for those already existing.  From eliminating unnecessary red tape to finding help obtaining credit, Congressman Lipinski wants to protect small businesses from the hurdles that complicate their progress and provide the tools they need to succeed. In today’s economic climate, it is important to make life easier for business owners to compete on our soil and on the international stage.

"Small businesses form the backbone of the Third District's economy, create nearly two-thirds of new jobs nationally, and remain key to our country's economic recovery," Congressman Lipinski said. "But with the economy still stalled and loans hard to come by even for those with good track records and solid credit, action is needed to remove the barriers to growth.”

 

Are you interested in starting a small business?

Do you have an idea and don’t know what the next step should be in considering starting your own business?  Are you an existing small business owner who would like to find out about more resources available to you?

The Small Business Administration (www.sba.gov) is available to help with the process, from counseling and training to providing a thorough review funding opportunities and much more.  There are many resources available to help existing and future small business owners succeed; however, many people often do not know where to turn.  Click here to learn more about how the SBA can help.

10 Steps to Starting a Business
(compiled by the Small Business Administration)

Starting a business involves planning, making key financial decisions and completing a series of legal activities. These 10 easy steps can help you plan, prepare and manage your business. Click on the links to learn more.
 

Step 1: Write a Business Plan
Use these tools and resources to create a business plan. This written guide will help you map out how you will start and run your business successfully.
 

Step 2: Get Business Assistance and Training
Take advantage of free training and counseling services, from preparing a business plan and securing financing, to expanding or relocating a business.
 

Step 3: Choose a Business Location
Get advice on how to select a customer-friendly location and comply with zoning laws.
 

Step 4: Finance Your Business
Find government backed loans, venture capital and research grants to help you get started.
 

Step 5: Determine the Legal Structure of Your Business
Decide which form of ownership is best for you: sole proprietorship, partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), corporation, S corporation, nonprofit or cooperative.
 

Step 6: Register a Business Name ("Doing Business As")
Register your business name with your state government.
 

Step 7: Get a Tax Identification Number
Learn which tax identification number you'll need to obtain from the IRS and your state revenue agency.
 

Step 8: Register for State and Local Taxes
Register with your state to obtain a tax identification number, workers' compensation, unemployment and disability insurance.
 

Step 9: Obtain Business Licenses and Permits
Get a list of federal, state and local licenses and permits required for your business.
 

Step 10: Understand Employer Responsibilities
Learn the legal steps you need to take to hire employees.

 

Provided below are additional valuable resources for small business owners and potential entrepreneurs. If you have further questions, feel free to call my office for further guidance.


General Small Business Resources

Chicago/District Resources:

Contracting: