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

For new and expanding businesses, follow Virginia's easy step-by-step guide

An online guide will take you through the process of starting, expanding or relocating a business in Virginia, including checklists, helpful tips and licensing procedures.

I recommend: Make your first stop the Virginia Department of Business Assistance's Business Launch Pad.

Use free business resources

The Virginia Department of Small Business offers programs and services designed to aid new and expanding ventures. Examples include access to capital, small business counseling, and workforce training.

I recommend: Learn more at Virginia's Department of Business Assistance (DBA).

Cover the business basics

Virginia offers helpful information on financing, filing licenses and permits, and hiring qualified workers. You can also search a database for answers to business-related questions or chat with a counselor online.

I recommend: Get your questions answered at the Virginia Business Information Center.

Learn from the experts

The Virginia Small Business Development Center recruits professional experts to provide free counsel for entrepreneurs. They can offer advice on your start-up strategy, review business plans, and help with matters related to marketing, financing, and more.

I recommend: There are 29 centers in the state. Find one near you.

Get expert help for exporting

Virginia also has an array of programs to promote companies exporting their products.

I recommend: The Division of International Trade, part of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership can help.

Find alternative funding

Finance possibilities include the Loan Guaranty Program, which guarantees a portion of a loan or line of credit extended by a commercial bank, and the Economic Development Loan Fund.

I recommend: The Virginia Small Business Financing Authority sponsors several funding programs.

Save precious startup funds by using a business incubator

Small business incubators provide shared facilities and help for startups.

I recommend: Find a Virginia incubator near you.

Check out the SBA in Virginia

The Web site for Virginia's regional SBA office in Richmond offers links and other information about state and city governments and business resources, including local chambers of commerce and women business centers.

I recommend: Visit the SBA regional site.

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.