If you are looking to start or expand a business in Tennessee 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 Tennessee Small Business Development Centers

Tennessee Small Business Development Centers (TSBDCs) can help you establish and expand a business through management and technical assistance programs for the aspiring and existing small business owner.

I recommend: The TSBDC is a network of professional business consultants with 12 centers and two satellite offices in 14 cities throughout Tennessee. The TSBDC prides itself on providing expert business advice to all types of businesses whether you are a manufacturer, retailer, service provider or a professional. Your best plan is to explore the "How Can the TSBDC Help Me?" section and start discovering the many solutions available to your business.

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: These are SCORE Tennessee offices: Bristol - Bristol SCORE; Chattanooga - Chattanooga SCORE; Johnson City - NE Tennessee SCORE; Knoxville - Greater Knoxville SCORE; Memphis - Memphis SCORE; Nashville - Nashville SCORE.

Head for the state's

It's housed within the state Department of Economic and Community Development.

I recommend: The state's business information guide includes a one-stop business resource where you can obtain a business name and state tax ID number, and accomplish other key steps in starting your business.

Connect to a Tennessee 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 Tennessee can connect you with a wide range of people, tools and resources.

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.