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

Confer with the business experts

The Missouri Small Business Development Centers offer various training seminars. Topics include franchising, marketing and financial analysis. The centers also host counseling services with state business experts and access to technology resources like product design and manufacturing studies.

I recommend: For more information, visit Missouri Small Business Development Centers. You can sign up for services online at Missouri Business Network.

Tap into the state's various business programs

The Missouri Business Development Programs sponsor multiple business assistance resources. Entrepreneurs can learn about financial opportunities, business licenses, tax information and a host of other related programs.

I recommend: Review what's available at Missouribusiness.net.

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

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

I recommend: Consult Missouri's Chamber of Commerce.

Access the state's business information library

Missouri's Business Information Source (MO-BIS) is an online library of references and links that provide access to reliable and timely business information. The site is organized into seven primary categories, 33 subcategories and links to more than 860 Web sites.

I recommend: Visit the Missouri Business Resource Library.

Find qualified workers

The process of hiring experienced employees can be daunting. Streamline the process and use the Missouri Workforce Resource, a state-run Web site that accesses the state's largest hiring pool.

I recommend: Sign up for the free service at Greathires.org.

Download valuable business information

The Missouri Small Business Start-Up Kit is a CD-ROM formatted for Mac and Windows that contains hundreds of pages on how to launch a business. Special sections include how to write a business plan and advice on starting and managing a home-based operation.

I recommend: Order the start-up kit for $25.

Research Missouri's business climate

How does Missouri's economy match up with other states? The Missouri Economic Research and Information Center's online database compares Missouri with U.S. and state averages in multiple categories like median income, cost of living, taxes and infrastructure.

I recommend: Access the center's database.

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.