Step By Step Guide
This guide will inform you of various legal requirements and direct you to additional resources. If you have any questions contact the Business Information Center at 800-252-2923 or TDD: 800-785-6055 and a staff member will assist you.
1. Where Do I Start?
2. What ownership structure choices do I have?
3. Where do I register a business?
4. What are my responsibilities as an employer?
5. How do I protect my invention, product or idea?
6. Where can I go for help?
6. Where can I go for help?
The Illinois Small Business Development Center Network is made up of Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTAC), SBDC - International Trade Centers, Small Business Environmental Assistance Program (SBEAP) and the Business Information Center. Training courses and free one-on-one business advising are offered through the network.
To find a center near you click on Center Locator
Small Business Administration (SBA)
The SBA offers educational, financial and training programs, advisory services, and publications free or at a nominal fee. The agency also offers specialized programs for women business owners, minorities, veterans, international trade and rural development. For more information contact the SBA at:
SCORE - Counselors To America's Small Businesses
SCORE and the SBA conduct seminars throughout Illinois on starting and running a business, as well as provide individual counseling.
Business and Industry Data Centers (BIDC)
BIDC affiliates use census information and other economic and demographic data to help small business owners plan, manage and expand their businesses. Demographic information that is available includes the population, including age, race, and sex, income and the labor force in a given area. Accessible economic information includes the number and kinds of businesses, employment, payroll and sales information.
- For more information call 217-785-6117.
Illinois Small Business Environmental Assistance Program
The Illinois Small Business Environmental Assistance Program provides companies with assistance in determining permit requirements under the Illinois Environmental Protection and Clean Air Acts. This service is non-regulatory and confidential.
Small Business Tax Workshops
The Small Business Tax Workshops are conducted by the Internal Revenue Service, Illinois Department of Revenue, Illinois Department of Employment Security, Social Security Administration and the Small Business Administration. These workshops provide federal and state tax information for new and existing small business owners. For more information contact the local Small Business Coordinator at:
For any questions or concerns regarding your business or the contents of this web page, please contact the Business Information Center at 1-800-252-2923
TDD: 800-785-6055