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

Start your research journey here

While there is no single comprehensive Web site listing every possible state and private agency serving small businesses in Minnesota, this clearinghouse site has a fairly complete set of links to Web sites established and maintained by the state agencies and other offices dealing with topics of importance to small business owners and would-be entrepreneurs, including incorporation, labor laws, licenses, permits, inspections, taxes and unemployment insurance.

I recommend: Take a shortcut and go to Bizlinks.org.

Get a guide

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is dedicated to generating and retaining jobs in the state through business growth, expansion and retention.

I recommend: Learn how to start your business in Minnesota at DEED, where you can order a free printed or CD copy of "A Guide to Starting a Business in Minnesota."

Get help with your taxes

AccountAbility Minnesota is a volunteer-operated program for sole proprietorships and the self-employed offering tax preparation assistance and business tax workshops. The program, located in St. Paul, is limited to business owners with income of $47,000 or less.

I recommend: Find the tax help you need at AccountAbility.

Take advantage of Minnesota's free consulting services

Minnesota Small Business Development Centers offer counseling and advising services to small business operators throughout the state. They provide free one-on-one business consulting, workshops, publications, networking opportunities and educational programs.

I recommend: Seek advice from a free business consultant and get other referrals at Minnesota's Small Business Development Center. The site is operated by DEED and offers links to experts in various industries, marketing specialists and business service specialists.

Get site-specific advice from Minnesota's many chambers of commerce

If you're thinking about relocating your small business in Minnesota, talk to people who live, work and play in your potential area by contacting the local chamber of commerce.

I recommend: Consult the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce.

Let Minnesota's Small Business Assistance Office assist you

This office, also part of the state's Department of Employment and Economic Development, works with individuals and companies with questions about starting and expanding businesses in Minnesota.

I recommend: Get some critical assistance at Mnsbao.com.

Get some answers to your questions

Answers, not more information, says the Business Utility Zone Gateway, is what you'll find at their Web site, which offers detailed lists of resources helpful to the small business owner or anyone considering opening a small business in the state.

I recommend: See what's available at Buzgate.

Consult with Uncle Sam about running a small business in Minnesota

The U.S. Small Business Administration has a full range of services available in Minnesota, both online and at its district office in Minneapolis.

I recommend: Consult the state's SBA site for a list of services in Minnesota.

Get advice from seasoned executives

SCORE, the non-profit association of retired business executives, is active in Minnesota and offers both face-to-face and email business counseling.

I recommend: Consult SCORE for executives willing to advise you on your small business.

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.