If you are looking to start or expand a business in Utah, 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 with business basics

Utah's official Web site lists state licenses and registration requirements for small businesses.

I recommend: Review and download the forms. Find out if you are eligible for Utah's One-Stop Online Business Registration.

Get free expert advice

The Utah Small Business Development Centers is a network of business consultants and trainers that operate out of Utah's state colleges and universities. Get free advice and insight about pre-start ups or your existing business.

I recommend: Find a center near you.

Create a winning business plan

The Salt Lake City Chamber of Commerce shows Utah small businesses the details needed to draft a business plan, such as business description, marketing strategy, product or service market, and how funds will be distributed.

I recommend: View a sample business plan outline.

Calculate your start-up money

Take the guesswork out of financing. Utah's Small Business Administration (SBA) offers easy-to-use checklists that evaluate your start-up costs and whether you qualify for a SBA loan.

I recommend: Fill out the checklists and see if you qualify.

Find local funding assistance

The Utah Microenterprise Loan Fund helps small businesses with five or fewer employees that are too small to qualify for commercial bank loans. The Utah Certified Development Company works with the SBA and private lenders to assist with up to 90 percent financing of long-term fixed assets, such as land, building, and equipment.

I recommend: See how your business may benefit at UMLF.com and UtahCDC.com

Take advantage of a rural business setting

Small businesses in rural areas can receive additional support through the Utah Office of Rural Development. The office provides technical support, tax benefits and networking opportunities for business in small towns and isolated areas.

I recommend: Learn more about the programs from the Rural Development office.

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: SCORE's Utah office: Salt Lake City - Salt Lake SCORE.

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.