Pre-Venture

There are several services available to assist new entrepreneurs in starting a business and all are available at no cost. The following are the usual steps taken in starting a business with the SBDC’s help.

STEPS:

1. Contact the 1st Stop Business Connection for information on licensing and permits
Web: www.odod.state.oh.us/edd/1ststop
2. Attend Basis of a Successful Start Class, or go through our Online training modules
Assessment of client readiness, both personal and financial
3. Begin 1-on-1 consulting relationship with SBDC Certified Business Advisor
Development of business plan
Identification of funding sources
Proposal presentation to potential funding sources
Funding secured
4. Getting the doors open

Useful Links

1st Stop Business Connection
A business information kit of state-level information and resources for Ohio’s emerging businesses from the Ohio Department of Development

Start-Up Guide
A comprehensive resources of things you need to consider, know and do to get a business started from the U.S. Small Business Administration

Entreworld.org
A world of advice, information and resources for entrepreneurs from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

The Capital Connection
A well-respected site full of information on where and how to mount a search for angel and venture capital, with good books on the subject too.

U.S. Bureau of the Census
Volumes of searchable information from the latest census to help inform your business.

MoneyHunt Business Plan Template
The Haas School of Business at the University of California-Berkeley considers this one of the best basic templates for writing a business plan.

Secretary of State Business Services
Search for a business in Ohio by name or other parameters or find the necessary corporate filing forms for your business.
Search Business Name Availability

Small Business Development Center Logo

Voinovich School, Building 20, The Ridges, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio 45701 · 740–593-1797

The Small Business Development Center of Ohio (SBDC) program is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. The SBDC program is also funded in part by the Ohio Department of Development. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact (name, address, and phone number of person who will make the arrangements).