If you are looking to start or expand a business in Wyoming, 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 the Wyoming Secretary of State's office

Find a list of fees, forms and frequently asked questions about starting your business in Wyoming.

I recommend: Download the forms you need from the Secretary of State's office.

Take advantage of free Small Business Development Center services

Wyoming's several SBDC offices help small business owners with counseling, training, financing advice and more.

I recommend: Contact a statewide SBDC office.

Seek expert advice from SCORE

Meeting with a local SCORE counselor is a great way to learn from an experienced individual about state-specific solutions.

I recommend: Contact a SCORE counselor.

Apply for state-supported funding

Wyoming offers many financial programs to assist small businesses with funding and training needs. Examples include the Challenge Loan, Workforce Training Funds, Community Development Block Grants and Industrial Development Revenue Bonds.

I recommend: View a guide of these and other programs at WyomingBusiness.org.

Visit the Small Business Administration for other financial assistance

Wyoming's SBA office in Casper can assist with SBA loan programs and other small business aid.

I recommend: Contact SBA counselors.

Expedite the permits and licenses process

The Business Permitting Assistance Office provides one-stop permitting and licensing information for existing and relocating Wyoming businesses.

I recommend: Visit the Wyoming Business Council for more information.

Access valuable online sources

The state has developed a database of free articles related to small business issues called Fast Resources for Enterprise Development (FRED). The articles cover topics from marketing needs to management tips to dealing with cash flow issues.

I recommend: Find the FRED articles appropriate for your needs.

Find research your business needs to succeed

The Wyoming Market Research Center offers detailed, up-to-date information for businesses, such as industry trends, demographic profiles and other related data.

I recommend: See what resources are available at the Wyoming Market Research Center.

Ask questions to state business experts

Wyoming Business Tips answers questions from Wyoming entrepreneurs. Search the archives by subject or submit your own question.

I recommend: Access tips at Wyoming Small Business Development Center's Business Tips archive.

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.