If you are looking to start or expand a business in Delaware or just need help solving a problem specific to this state or region, there's 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 mountain 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 local solutions often live in many different places.

Cover your bases by seeking solutions in these locations:

1. State government agencies, such as the commerce department, economic development office, secretary of state's office or other business-related state agencies.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. State and local offices of federal agency programs, such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) office in your area.

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

Get free help at the Delaware Small Business Development Center (DSBDC)

The DSBDC exists to strengthen Delaware's economic base by providing quality services, such as, management assistance, education programs and resources to Delaware small businesses and startup entrepreneurs.

I recommend: DSBDC offers a great lineup of free and low-cost assistance.

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: Visit SCORE's Delaware office in Wilmington for help.

Discover Delaware's the dedicated lineup of small business help

The Small Business Resource Partnership (SBRP) is a consortium of public and private agencies in Delaware offering small business programs and services.

I recommend: SBRP will plug you into the programs and resources you need, from permitting to site selection, taxes to business plans, and much more

Head to the Delaware Division of Corporations for info on how to incorporate

It's all here, from corporate forms and fees, to tax info, name reservations and more.

I recommend: Find what you need at the Division of Corporations Web site.

Connect to a Delaware small business resource portal

Discover hundreds of local programs offering free and low-cost help for starting and growing your business.

I recommend: The Business Utility Zone Gateway for Delaware can connect you with a wide range of people, tools and resources.

Get chummy with the Chamber

The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce offers a range of services, information, advocacy and money-saving benefits to small business owners.

I recommend: The DSCC site has a helpful lineup of business services.

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.