This Resource Guide is designed to provide access to information needed to start or grow a business in Freeport and Stephenson County. It includes many links to documents and websites that will assist in answering questions for someone to open their business. The Starting a Business Resource Guide is designed to provide you with access to information and resources to make your entrepreneurial journey more successful!

Table of Contents to Guide

Introduction

1. So You want to Start A Business
2. About the Greater Freeport Partnership
   1. Contact information
3. The Business Resource Guide
4. The Business Start-Up Process (graphic)

Evaluate Your Idea

1. Where Do I Start?
   1. 30 Questions
   2. Are you ready to start your own business?

Business Plan

1. Components of a Business Plan
2. Small Business Development Center
3. SBA Business Plan
4. SCORE Business Plan

Build Your Business

1. Business Ownership
   1. Business Ownership Options
2. Registering Your Business in Illinois
   1. State of Illinois Registration
   2. Illinois Department of Professional Regulations
   3. Stephenson County
   4. City of Freeport and other municipalities
3. Federal Tax Identification Number
4. State of Illinois Tax Number
5. Sales Tax
6. Developing a Startup Support Team
7. Financing Your Business
   1. Your personal credit
   2. Possible Business Financing Resources
   3. Local Business Financing Resources
   4. Possible Site-Specific Financing Resources
8. Business Insurance
9. Lawyers
10. Accountants
11. Real Estate and Leasing
    1. Utility Contact Information

Grow Your Business

1. Assembling Your Team
2. Hiring Employees
   1. Writing a Job Description
   2. Writing an Employee Manual
   3. State of Illinois Unemployment
   4. Workers Compensation
   5. Insurance
   6. Minimum Wage Laws
3. Sales and Marketing
4. Plan for Growth

Appendices and Attachments

Appendix A: Resources

Appendix B: Employment Posters

Appendix C: Feasibility Checklist