If you are looking to start or expand a business in Alaska, or just need help solving a problem specific to this state or region, there are a wide range of resources — both government and private — available to help.

While many nationally focused resources offer helpful solutions, some issues are better addressed at the state or local level. Answers to licensing, zoning, sales tax, incorporation, economic development issues and a wide range of other matters often reside at the state level. Ironically, however, finding the right resources closer to home can often be even more difficult, as solutions live in many different places.

Cover your bases by seeking solutions in these places:

1. State government agencies, such as the commerce department, economic development office, secretary of state's office or other business-related state agencies.
2. State and local offices of federal agency programs, such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) office in your area.
3. Small business assistance programs offered through local universities and community colleges that are backed by state and federal resources. These include Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and SCORE offices.
4. Private, non-profit and special-interest industry and business organizations that provide a range of services, networking opportunities and even funding options for small businesses.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Learn the business basics

Alaska's Department of Commerce offers an online guide to starting a small business in the state.

I recommend: View the guide, which covers important aspects such as evaluating your idea and how to create a marketing analysis and business plan for lenders.

Seek valuable business advice

The Alaska Small Business Development Center offers free one-on-one counseling with experts to answer all questions related to launching a small business. They also host many training seminars in areas like marketing and record keeping.

I recommend: Locate the six centers and view their seminar schedule.

File the right licenses quickly and efficiently

Alaska has a new online site where you can easily buy and file the appropriate business and professional licenses.

I recommend: View the licenses.

Find local finance programs

Alaska has numerous loan programs designed specifically for small businesses. Evergreen Community Development offers SBA 504 loans and financing for businesses in low-income communities. The Loan Guarantee Program from the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority helps entrepreneurs who have trouble getting commercial financing.

I recommend: Apply for a SBA 504 loan. Download a Loan Guarantee Program application. View other state lenders.

Get support for rural start-ups

Alaska's Office of Economic Development specializes in assisting rural companies in areas like tourism, fisheries and mineral development.

I recommend: Visit their programs and resources.

Buy locally and save money

Don't spend extra money on importing goods and services. The 'Buy Alaska' program helps small businesses purchase supplies, equipment and other needs from other Alaskan companies. Register your business in their online directory and access their database to find state and local suppliers.

I recommend: Access the free database at Buyalaska.com, and add your business to the directory.

Promote your business online

Small businesses shouldn't underestimate the power and affordability of Web sites. Optimal Results offers inexpensive Web design and hosting specifically for Alaska small businesses.

I recommend: Review samples at Alaskasmallbusiness.com.

SCORE more free help for your biz

SCORE, 'Counselors to America's small business' is a terrific national organization that provides free mentoring for small business owners.

I recommend: SCORE's Alaska office: Anchorage - Anchorage SCORE.

Snag state-level help from the SBA

District, state and regional offices of the U.S. Small Business Administration can put a more focused face on federal programs and resources, and plug you into local training and assistance solutions.

I recommend: Just plug in a Zip Code, select a specific city from the pull-down menu or check your state on the U.S. map in the middle of the SBA home page.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many types of businesses require state, city or county licenses and permits. State offices listed above will spell out any specific requirements for your industry.
• •  Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are an often-overlooked but terrific place to obtain free or low-cost advice and information, including training seminars and technology resources that are nearby.
• •  Locally-based SBDC consultants can advise you individually on how to write a business plan, market your products and services, find financial resources and other valuable information.
• •  The regional SBA office can plug you into loan and assistance programs, seminars and other initiatives to aid small businesses.
• •  Linking up with a local SCORE counselor is a great way to learn from an experienced individual about state-specific solutions.