If you are looking to start or expand a business in Maine, 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

Begin with the Secretary of State's office

The Maine Secretary of State's Web site serves as a gateway for information on business registration, licensing, regulations and other matters.

I recommend: You can access the proper forms for filing a business at the Maine Secretary of State's Division of Corporations.

Tap the Small Business Development Center for free services

The state of Maine's SBDC network pairs experienced business analysts with small business owners to assist with counseling, training and advice on all facets of running a successful company.

I recommend: Access Maine's SBDC Web site to find offices throughout the state.

Consult with the Small Business Administration for financial assistance

Maine has a SBA district office in Augusta. The site offers information on loan and assistance programs, outreach efforts and initiatives to aid small businesses.

I recommend: The Maine's SBA site provides a list of financial and other SBA services.

Check out chambers of commerce for local support

If you've chosen a business site, or need more background on an area, the local chamber of commerce can provide firsthand insight into the state's business climate.

I recommend: Access the Maine Chamber of Commerce's services at Mainechamber.org. Find a local chamber of commerce or other business advocacy organization throughout Maine and elsewhere at Chamberofcommerce.com.

Take advantage of Maine's economic development incentives

Business owners in Maine benefit from the state's high quality of life, abundant recreational opportunities and relatively low cost of living. The state provides financial assistance, technical assistance and employee training programs as incentives to expanding companies.

I recommend: Go to Mainebiz.org to investigate the state's assistance programs. Download the Maine Pocket Guide to Business Resources. Get details on the state's tax structure from Maine Revenue Services.

Research Maine's economic conditions

Get the fine-print details needed to help your business succeed by searching out information on Maine's population, economy and other factors that influence the cost of doing business in the state.

I recommend: Explore the economic and demographic information at the Business Climate Web page located on the state's Maine.gov Web portal.

Discover online what small businesses need to know

Maine's newspapers, magazines and other online publications monitor business activities throughout the state.

I recommend: Tune into the SBA's work in the state with the agency's free Maine News newsletter (scroll down after linking). Access Maine newspapers' Web sites using the links at the Internet Public Library. Also check out the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development Maine Connections newsletter.

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.