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

Visit development centers for expert advice

The Texas Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) assist both new businesses and those looking to expand. On-site counselors offer free advice and insight about financing opportunities, marketing plans, tax planning and other vital business needs. The centers also host low-cost and no-cost seminars and workshops designed to improve your management skills.

I recommend: SBDC networks are spread across different geographic regions. Locate the nearest center from the North Texas SBDC, Northwest Texas SBDC, Small Business Development Center Network or the Texas State SBDC.

Learn business start-up basics

The Texas Department of Economic Development and Tourism publishes a four-step online guide to starting a small business in Texas. It covers must-know topics like how to file a business name, tax responsibilities, finding required licenses and permits, and federal and state employer requirements.

I recommend: View the guide at the Governor's Office page on economic development and tourism.

Seek out assistance from the Small Business Administration

Texas' seven SBA offices can answer your questions about business plans, marketing and available SBA loans. They also host valuable one-day seminars and workshops on topics such as buying an existing business and how to manage your money.

I recommend: Contact an SBA office for more information.

File your permits and licenses on-line

At Texas Online you can easily locate the right licenses and permits for your business and then pay and register with the state in a few minutes.

I recommend: Access the directory of permits and licenses at Texasonline.com.

Apply for alternative funding

Small businesses that don't qualify for conventional loans may benefit from the state's Capital Access Program. Loans can be used for working capital, construction costs, or building and equipment leases. Accion Texas, a non-profit, provides small business loans up to $50,000.

I recommend: Contact participating Capital Access Program lenders. Apply for Accion Texas loans.

Find affordable health insurance

Don't think your small business can afford health or accident insurance? Many Texas health insurance companies offer plans specifically for small business with two to 50 employees.

I recommend: Review the list of insurance companies.

Expedite your hiring process

Find qualified workers quickly by posting your openings with the Texas Workforce Development System. You can also view resumes of job-seekers and recruit future workers.

I recommend: Post your job for free and search for employees at Texas Workforce.

Access valuable business data

With Texas' Business and Industry Data Center you can find almost any state business-related statistic. You can review past and current statewide economic data, labor statistics, office vacancy rates and listings of Texas' top companies and industries.

I recommend: View the list of topics at the Business and Industry Data Center.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Small businesses located in state enterprise zones and start-ups may be eligible for loans through the state's Linked Deposit Program. For more information, call (512) 936-0100.
• •  Businesses looking to expand or relocate should request information from Domestic Expansion and Recruitment, which provides information about incentive programs and answers questions about the Texas business climate. Call (512) 936-0101.
• •  Hispanic business owners can increase their exposure by joining the Texas Hispanic Business Directory published by the Texas Association of Mexican-American Chamber of Commerce. To list your company, call the TAMACC at (512) 444-5727.
• •  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.