The business hasn't taken its first breath yet; it's just an idea in the first of seven stages of life.

Small Business Resource Magazine is the most complete guide to starting and expanding your business. You'll find information on Local Regulations, Government Loans, Training and Assistance, and Business Advocacy.

Before you even think about starting a business, do your homework.  Validate the need for your product or service.  If you are starting a business in or around Kingsport, Tenn., be sure to take into consideration the City of Kingsport Demographics, Statistics, Traffic Counts & More.  If you are starting a business elsewhere contact your City's Development Services Department. 

Need industry-specific market research data?  Choose from a variety of reports available about your industry and your market area—down to the zip code, from BizMiner Industry Market Research.  Don't want to pay for market research?  We may be able to find what you are looking for using our exclusive access to the ReferenceUSAGov Database of 14 million businesses.

Be smart and write a Business Plan BEFORE you open.  Sometimes the business plan actually helps you decide whether or not you should go any further with your idea.

You should also pull your FREE credit report before you attempt to apply for a business loan.  If you're not bankable, you won't be able to get a loan if you need one.  You can have the greatest idea, the best plan, the right experience, education, skills and talent, and the passion of a million lovers, but the truth is money makes the world go round.

Need to select an accountant, banker, insurance agent, or lawyer?  Drop by your local Chamber of Commerce and pick up a membership directory or visit their web site for an Online Membership Directory. 

When you are ready to do so, you can get your EIN# for FREE, so don't be tricked into paying for this freebie.  In fact, the Tennessee One-Stop Business Resource offers a single access point to government services and information to help businesses with their operations.  You can also manually print and complete the appropriate State of Tennessee Filing Forms and submit them with the required fees. 

 

 

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Didn't find what you were looking for?  We still want to help.

Choose from two easy options:

1.) Schedule a FREE and completely confidential in-person business counseling session in a private setting with an experienced and qualified TSBDC-certified counselor by calling (423) 392.8825 or e-mail info@kosbe.org. 

2.) Obtain answers to your questions online, by phone or via e-mail.  Just signup for Online Counseling right here.