If you are looking to start or expand a business in Washington, D.C., 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 D.C. Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

The District of Columbia SBDC Network promotes the growth and expansion of small businesses in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.

I recommend: The DC SBDC Network provides free counseling and low-cost training. The Web site has specialty areas for startup help, existing businesses, counseling requests, success stories and market research listings.

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: Visit SCORE's Washington, D.C., chapter site for help.

Dig into D.C. government assistance programs for small business

D.C.'s Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) can help you get a business started in D.C. or provide assistance for growing an existing business.

I recommend: DSLBD has a helpful Business Center along with a variety of other 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.