![]() |
| ||||||||
The answers to a few questions usually determines the best business entity for you.
Most businesses with a single owner, no employees and no outside investors form sole proprietorships. As the sole operator of the business, if there is ever a lawsuit, you will be personally sued, so setting up a corporation or
limited liability company won't protect your personal assets. For sole business operators with business risk, the best
way to protect yourself is through liability insurance.
If you have financial risk (loans), you will be asked to personally guarantee them, so setting up a corporation or LLC won't protect you from that debt. However, if you will have a lot of little vendors and your business fails, forming an corporation or LLC will shield you from those debts (at the expense of small businesses).
If you expect large profits (over $100,000), a downside of forming a sole proprietorship is that the owner does not take a salary, but all profits flow through to your personal income tax, where you have to pay social security self-employment tax (as well as income tax). If you form a corporation, some of this income could be shielded from social security tax. You can declare a reasonable salary and pay social security on that amount,. All other profits will only be taxed for income tax, not for social security. Before incorporating for this reason, you should talk with a tax advisor because you will have to convince the IRS that the extra profits did not come from your personal work, but were generated from your business' assets.
Can you change your mind? Yes, you can change your entity structure at any time. However, you must "close" the old company and file new paperwork with all the government agencies. You will probably have to get a new DUNS number and will have to start building your business credit from the beginning.
If you have
multiple owners involved in the business and no additional employees, forming a partnership is
possible, if you all understand that whatever action one person takes will affect everyone else - even if they were not
aware of it. So if one person orders a million popsicles, lets them melt, and then moves to the Bahamas, the remaining partners
are liable for the popsicle bill (and the bill to clean it all up). If this is not acceptable to any of the owners, you should form a corporation or LLC. An LLC has less paperwork than corporations do.
Corporations should be used if you want to offer incentive stock options to your employees.
If you expect large profits (over $100,000 per partner), another downside of forming a partnership is that owners do not have salaries. Instead, all profits flow through to the partners' personal income tax form and the partners have to pay social security self-employment tax (as well as income tax) on all of it. If you form a corporation, the owners can declare reasonable salaries and pay social security on that amount. Additional profits will only be taxed for income tax. Before you incorporate for this reason, talk with a tax advisor because you will have to convince the IRS that the extra profits did not come from your personal work, but were generated from your business' assets.
Can you change your mind? Yes, you can change your entity structure at any time. However, you must "close" the old company and file new paperwork with all the government agencies. You will probably have to get a new DUNS number and will have to start building your business credit from the beginning.
If you have employees but no outside
investors, a limited liability company is a good choice, because there is little ongoing
paperwork and your assets will be protected from actions that your employees may do. You will still be personally
liable for the actions that you take and for taxes. If you have large profits (over $100,000 per owner), there
is a downside to forming an LLC. LLC owners do not take a salary. Instead, all the profits pass through to the owners' personal income tax and they have to pay social security self-employment tax on the entire amount.
You can also form a corporation. The benefits are that it is easier to get outside funding (sell shares of stock) than with an LLC. Also, owners take "reasonable" salaries and pay the same taxes as an LLC. But there is a possibility that the corporation will earn additional profit. This profit will not be taxable for social security purposes(it will be taxable for income tax).
Forming a corporation is also a good choice if you want to offer your employees stock options.
The downside is that you will have to have annual meetings with written minutes.
BizFilings offers a free Formation Assistant to help you choose between a corporation and an LLC. Click here to use this assistant to confirm your decision. Can you change your mind? Yes, you can change your entity structure at any time. However, you must "close" the old company and file new paperwork with all the government agencies. You will probably have to get a new DUNS number and will have to start building your business credit from the beginning.
Your situation with employees and outside investors is ideal for a corporation. You can easily add more investors by selling more stock
and your personal assets are protected from actions by your employees. You can also offer
stock incentives to your employees. You are still personally liable for the actions that
you take and for taxes.
BizFilings offers a free Formation Assistant to help you choose between a corporation and an LLC. Click here to use this assistant to confirm your decision. Can you change your mind? Yes, you can change your entity structure at any time. However, you must "close" the old company and file new paperwork with all the government agencies. You will probably have to get a new DUNS number and will have to start building your business credit from the beginning.
There is a misclassification here. If you have
outside investors (meaning they own a part of the company), then there is more than one owner - is you and
your outside investors. So go back in this tool and choose multiple owners. If your investor is really just
loaning you money, they are not an investor, they are a lender. Go back in this tool and select no for investors.
Limited liability companies are
ideal for this situation. You are protected from the actions of your employees but are not burdened with the
annual meeting and minutes required for corporations. However, if you expect to have more than $100,000 in net earnings per owner, you may want to consider forming a corporation instead. With LLCs, owners do not take salaries. Instead, the LLC's net revenues are passed through on the owners' personal income tax. Owners must pay social security self-employment tax plus income tax on their share. With a (S) corporation, the active owners take "reasonable" salaries and any remaining revenues are passed through to the owners, where they pay income tax, but not social security self-employment tax. Please talk with a tax advisor before incorporating for this reason, because you will have to convince the IRS that the extra profits did not come from your personal work, but were generated from your business' assets.
Can you change your mind? Yes, you can change your entity structure at any time. However, you must "close" the old company and file new paperwork with all the government agencies. You will probably have to get a new DUNS number and will have to start building your business credit from the beginning.
Generally, a corporation is best when you have investors. It is easy for corporations to sell more stock to raise capital. Limited liability companies can also
be used, but changing or adding investors involves having all the owners agree to a new operating agreement.
Should you treat your spouse as an owner or an employee?
If your spouse is an owner, officially you should form a partnership. However, many businesses with husband/wife owners stay a sole proprietorship. The IRS doesn't care unless your business' profits are greater than $108,200. If that is the case, you need to form a partnership so that enough social security self-employment tax is paid. If you are purchasing health insurance, there is a tax benefit if you treat your spouse as an employee, because your business can deduct health insurance premiums for employees and their families (IRS section 105 deduction). However, this tax deduction requires that you also provide coverage to your other employees. Also, if your spouse is an employee, you will have to do payroll paperwork for your spouse's earnings. else (spouse is no)
Should you treat your spouse as an owner or an employee?
If your spouse is an owner, officially you should form a partnership. However, many businesses with husband/wife owners stay a sole proprietorship. The IRS doesn't care unless your business' profits are greater than $108,200. If that is the case, you need to form a partnership so that enough social security self-employment tax is paid. If you are purchasing health insurance, there is a tax benefit if you treat your spouse as an employee, because your business can deduct health insurance premiums for employees and their families (IRS section 105 deduction). However, this tax deduction requires that you also provide coverage to your other employees.
Should you treat your spouse as an owner or an employee?
If your spouse is an owner, officially you should form a partnership. However, many businesses with husband/wife owners stay a sole proprietorship. The IRS doesn't care unless your business' profits are greater than $108,200. If that is the case, you need to form a partnership so that enough social security self-employment tax is paid. Also, if your spouse is an employee, you will have to do payroll paperwork for your spouse's earnings.
Should you treat your spouse as an owner or an employee?
If your spouse is actively participating in the business, (s)he can be an owner or an employee. If you are purchasing health insurance, there is a tax benefit if you treat your spouse as an employee, because your business can deduct health insurance premiums for employees and their families (IRS section 105 deduction). However, this tax deduction requires that you also provide coverage to your other employees. Also, if your spouse is an employee, you will have to do payroll paperwork for your spouse's earnings.
Should you treat your spouse as an owner or an employee?
If your spouse is an owner, officially you should form a partnership. However, many businesses with husband/wife owners stay a sole proprietorship. The IRS doesn't care unless your business' profits are greater than $108,200. If that is the case, you need to form a partnership so that enough social security self-employment tax is paid.
Should you treat your spouse as an owner or an employee?
If your spouse is actively participating in the business, (s)he can be an owner or an employee. If you are purchasing health insurance, there is a tax benefit if you treat your spouse as an employee, because your business can deduct health insurance premiums for employees and their families (IRS section 105 deduction). However, this tax deduction requires that you also provide coverage to your other employees. |
![]() |
|
![]() Your goal is to keep your funnel full and move people towards the purchase, loyalty point. Only a FEW of your leads will move towards purchase; MOST of them will drop out. If 1 in 20 prospects purchase, then you need to have 20 times your targeted number of customers as leads. When you have 1 sale, you need 20 more leads to add to your funnel. Here is a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) xls worksheet to help you manage the sales process. (source: www.vertex42.com) ![]()
BUSINESS NETWORKING
National Association of Women Business Owners - Indianapolis Chapter
Rainmakers: Meet.Learn.Grow
Shortcodes: Text Pizza to 45137
Network using Meetup.com
GET FOUND ONLINE
Encourage customers to use Google Review and Yelp
Connect with your Community
Calling out-bound? Register to prevent "spam" caller label
Get your Business on Google
Get found on GPS devices by getting a DUNS number
Get found by Google Search
Create an .xml sitemap for free
Get found by Apple maps
Add your business to Apple Maps
Get Captcha website security
Add your business listing to Google Places
Set up your business listing on BING
Make sure your business is on GPS systems
Make sure your business can be liked
SOCIAL MEDIA
Social Media made Easy with Sketch.io
Web Social Networking
Social Media when You're Pressed for Time
Social media webinars and resources from SCORE
Twitter Business Tips: Building Your Brand Online
Get your business on Facebook
How to use Hashtags to help your business
How to use YouTube
Use Pinterest for market research
7 Ways to Use LinkedIn to Grow Your Small Business
Setting up a blog
Add a Share button
Monitor your business and industry
MARKETING
Located in downtown Delphi? Promote your business through Delphi Main Street Association
Your Guide to the Marketplace - a simple guide to creating a marketing plan
Mystery Shopper Program from Indiana SBDC
Use market research to understand customers and identify untapped markets
Once Upon a Time
Adopting the Attitude of You
Product Pricing: Can Spell the Difference between Success and Failure
Developing a Marketing Plan
Simple Guide to your Small Business Marketing Plan
Marketing webinars and resources from SCORE
SizeUp - check out your customers and competitors
Are you fluent in AIDA?
Holiday Success Guide - How to plan to improve holiday sales
QR Codes to increase sales
Build an Online Word-of-Mouth Marketing Plan
SCORE Marketing Cookbook
USPS: Every Door Direct Mail - tool to calculate the cost of mailing to specific carrier routes in your town
Business reply envelopes (or postcards)
Email marketing tips
Building the Perfect Website for your Small Business - a video tutorial from SCORE
Indiana Market Maker: Linking Agricultural Markets
HELP IF YOU HAVE A STOREFRONT
Need to attract foot traffic? Effective Signage
SELLING
True Cost: Why it Matters and Calculator
Sell VALUE, not features
You are <> Your Customer
Ways to close a deal
Find business leads with Reference USA
Selling to large companies
Applying Technology to Jumpstart your Sales - a video tutorial from SCORE
Banks seeking minority, women, and disable-owned suppliers
SELLING ON THE INTERNET
Amazon Brand Registry
How to Sell to Amazon (video)
VIDEOS
Employee Recruitment and Retention
Employee management: Setting Goals
Bring your A Game to Work
Work safely in your Office
Bring your A-Game to Work - soft skills
Proper Worker Classification from the IRS
Discipline & Termination for Supervisors
Stopping Employee Theft
Sexual Harassment Training
Sexual Harassment Training video (30 minutes)
Summary of Sexual Harassment 2-minute video
Addressing unconscious bias in the workplace
Security Awareness & Training
Soft Skills
|
![]() |
|
IMPROVE PRODUCTIVITY
Unconscious Bias e-Lesson
COVID-19 Economic Impact Tracker
Work-Life Balance
Motivate Today's Workers
Participation..Engagement..Loyalty through Gamification
Warning to Inventors!
How to Plan for Change
Uncertainty: Over the Top!
No PO Zone
150 Laughter Yoga Exercises
Workplace Events Calendar
9 Brilliant (and Hilarious) Customer Service Examples
LOL to improve your Business!
11 Shocking Employee Happiness Statistics
Resisting Change
Your Business and your Local Community
Time management resources
Building your Team: Know Thy Self
Team Effectiveness Survey
Burned Out!
Lower your Distractions and Stress at Work
MANAGE INVENTORY
Dig Deeper: Supply Chain Management
Keeping Track of your Stuff
USE TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready training
Is your website accessible?
Business Technology Training from SCORE
Share calendars using Microsoft Outlook
VCards: Collecting business card info electronically
Computer backup options
Create your own app
USE TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE SELLING
Professional selling online tools: CRM
Secrets to selling online
USE TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE CASH FLOW
Online invoicing
Get paid online or with a smartphone
USE TECHNOLOGY TO COMMUNICATE WITH CUSTOMERS
Collaborate with Microsoft Teams
Using features in Microsoft Outlook
Vanity telephone number lookup tool
Share Computer Screens
Post and edit videos on YouTube or your website
Online chat
Create PDF Documents
Take pictures and videos with your SmartPhone and upload to Facebook and your website
Powerpoint and other presentation tools
EVALUATE WHERE YOU STAND
Time to Change your Tax/Legal Entity?
Are you a second stage business?
SizeUp - check out your customers and competitors
Audit Checklist from the SBA for a Growing Business
Financial Scorecard
B Corporations
IMPROVE QUALITY
Moving toward excellence: Videos
Indiana TechPoint: Helping technology companies grow, connect and succeed
Can you improve sales by forming a coop?
Do you qualify for Indiana Companies to Watch?
Improve your business operations: Six Sigma for Small Business
ISO9000 Quality management system
Key Performance Indicators
Baldrige National Quality Program
KPI Examples by Department and Industry
Creating memorable experiences
Best practices assessment in lean manufacturing
Best practices assessment in human resources
LEADERSHIP TRAINING
Teampedia - Tools for Teams
The Challenge of Being Excellent: Completing the Puzzle
Team Dynamics Assessment
Leadership training activities
Leadership online training module
Leadership vs. Management
Competent Leaders - what effective leaders do well
VIDEOS
|
![]()
|
![]() |
GET READY TO FUND YOUR BUSINESS
Managing your Cash Flow - a guide to financial control
Financial management for small businesses
Your funding toolkit
Financial webinars and resources from SCORE
Curated Coaching for Entrepreneurs from Chase
Find the Right Accounting Software
Learn Quickbooks - Free Tutorials
Online invoicing and credit card processing tools
Estimating Breakeven Sales for your Small Business
Understanding Financial Statements
Steps to Take in Getting through a Financial Crisis
Participate in trade reporting
How you can use BitCoin in your business
Negogiate credit card interest
1 loan; 3 cards; 5 vendors
SOURCES OF BUSINESS CAPITAL
Access to Capital - how businesses are funded
COLLECTIONS
Debt collection rules
FUNDING PROGRAMS
Native American? BIA 80% Loan Guaranty Program
Native American? Business loans from Native American Bank
Venturize - find funding resources
Loan Documentation - an Introduction for Small Businesses
SBA Lender List
Manufacturer needing $3 million or less? Indiana Small Bond Program
Diverting waste from the waste-stream? Recycling Marketing Development Loans and Grants
Small business loans from Accion Opportunity Fund
Government grant scams
Find local SBA approved lenders
USDA Value-Added Loans
Buying a franchise?
Opportunity Finance Lenders
SBA cap program: short-term working capital
USDA Rural Development Loans
Comparison between USDA and SBA guaranteed loan
Farm Storage Facility Loan Program
SBA's 504 loan program for industrial or commercial buildings
Loans from Business Development Corp.
Loans from Cambridge Capital
SBA Small Business Innovation Research
Current or former military? SBA Patriot Express Loans
REQUIRED COLLATERAL
Before you use your home equity or savings
Personal guarantees
Don't have a home?
CROWDFUNDING
Kiva Northwest Indiana loan
Indiana crowdfunding rules
Crowdfunding
KickStarter Handbook
EQUITY INVESTORS
High tech R&D? Funding and mentorship through Elevate Ventures
Biocrossroads life science investors
Life sciences: Indiana Seed Fund for working capital
Angel Investors
Indiana largest venture capital firms
The Entrepreneur's Path: Handbook for High-Growth Companies
1 Million Cups
Getting ready to raise capital
VIDEOS
Cash Flow Management
Preparing a Cash Budget
Funding Sources
Financial Ratio Management explained in 3 minutes
Introduction to Crowdfunding
Introduction to Accounting
Business Fundability Quiz
Securing Capital for your Small Business
Simplifying Small Business Funding
Preparing a Balance Sheet
Quickbooks Online 2020 Full Tutorial
Information video about SBIR grants
|
![]() |
|
CREATE A GREEN BUSINESS
Asbestos and Small Business Ombudsman
Environmental Best Practices for Small Business
Hoosier Environmental Council Green Business
Environmental Professionals Guide to Lean and Six Sigma
Make a difference: Partner with the National Forest Foundation
10 Biggest Cost Savings from green business practices
Smart Steps to Sustainability
Making environmental claims? Follow these Guides
Voluntary Environmental Management System ISO 14001
Sustainable business standards for industries and services developed by Green Seal
15 Things you Should Never Buy Again
PROTECT THE AIR
SAVE WATER
WaterSmart Guidebook for Businesses
Water Efficiency Manual for Commercial, Industrial, and Institutional Facilities
Lean and Water Toolkit from the EPA
10 step approach for water conservation for businesses
REDUCE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Managing Your Hazardous Waste: A Guide for Small Businesses
Lean and Chemicals Toolkit from the EPA
P2 Pollution Prevention
Pollution Prevention Plan Online Tool
REDUCE WASTE
PROTECT PEOPLES HEALTH
Material Safety Data Sheet
CONSERVE ENERGY
WISER Indiana - BioTown USA Initiative
Indiana Incentives for Energy Efficiency
Lighting
Food industry
Manufacturers: Indiana Energy Efficiency Assessment Program
Indiana Environmental Stewardship Program
Recycle Indiana
30% Down the Drain
Energy Star Products and Programs
Lean, Energy and Climate Toolkit from the EPA
Industrial best practices for energy
USDA REAP Guarantee Loan for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects
Want specific energy recommendations for your industry? Commercial Energy Systems Library
|
![]() |
|
![]() |
![]() |
Employer requirements are in Hiring. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Federal Income Tax Payments: 1040ES | Thu 6/15/2023 |
FICA and Federal Income Tax Payment Coupon | Thu 6/15/2023 |
ES-40 Quarterly Estimated Tax | Thu 6/15/2023 |
Paying State Taxes with WH-1 | Fri 6/30/2023 |
FICA and Federal Income Tax Payment Coupon | Mon 7/17/2023 |
8109: FUTA Tax Payments | Mon 7/31/2023 |
Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return | Mon 7/31/2023 |
Quarterly Withholding and Unemployment Insurance Reports | Mon 7/31/2023 |
Paying State Taxes with WH-1 | Mon 7/31/2023 |
FICA and Federal Income Tax Payment Coupon | Tue 8/15/2023 |
Paying State Taxes with WH-1 | Fri 8/25/2023 |
- Plan on paying 40% of your net revenue in taxes! 15.3% social security/medicare; 20% fed and 5% state.
- If your business closes, file closing documents or else government agencies will fine you. Usually, they will not accept closing documents until all prior taxes and paperwork has been filed. We've seen fines over $100,000!
TAXES AND REQUIRED FORMS
Secretary of State Scam
Indiana New and Small Business Education Center
Tax planning and reporting for small business
Tax webinars and resources from SCORE
What a Deal! Section 179 Tax Deduction
W-9 Request for Taxpayer ID
Virtual Small Business Tax Workshop for Small Business and the Self-Employed
IRS Taxpayer Advocate
OTHER GOVERNMENT REQUIREMENTS
Sales Tax for Online Transactions has Changed
Permit Wizard for Land, water and air permits
Indiana Health Insurance Exchange
States with sales tax on services
States charging sales tax on online purchases delivered to their state
Overtime Exemption Rules
Environmental help: IDEM Compliance and Technical Assistance Program
Rent rooms? County Innkeeper's Tax
National Compliance Assistance Centers
Health insurance options for small businesses (50 or fewer employees)
VIDEOS
![]() |
|
PRIVACY
Small Business Cybersecurity Workbook
Protect your Workplace - 5 cybersecurity posters
Cyberwhere for Small Business
Top 5 Cybersecurity Tips for Small Businesses
Top 5 ways to Prevent a Cyber Attack
Cyber Security Planning Guide
What to do AFTER a data breach
Protect yourself from business identity theft
Do not call registry
Protecting your Networks from Ransomware
Protect your Workplace from Cyber-Attack Campaign
CyberPlanner from the FCC
Protecting Personal Information: A guide for business
PROTECT PEOPLE
Workplace Violence: Awareness and Prevention for Employers and Employees
Developing a Violence Prevention Program
What to do if there is an Active Shooter: 1 hour Training from FEMA
Active shooter Guide for Businesses from the FBI
Workplace Violence - what to look for; what to do
PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY
Fire in the Workplace
Set up a Business Watch
Homeland Security: Tools for Small Business
Crime prevention ideas
Preventing Fraud
Small Business Scam research results from the BBB
Find scams in your area: BBB Scam Tracker
Report a Scam
5 Most Common Scams against Small Business
Patents, Copyrights and Trademarks
Protecting your intellectual property rights outside the US
Intellectual Property Awareness Assessment
RETIRING, SELLING OR CLOSING YOUR BUSINESS
Retirement options
Buying & Selling a Small Business
Business Succession? Consider your Employees
An Owner's Guide to Business Succession
DISASTER PLANNING
Outsmart Disaster: Resilient Business Challenge
Charge higher prices during or after a disaster?
Prepare your Business for a Severe Weather Emergency
Emergency Financial First Aid Kit from FEMA
Fire Safety at the Workplace
Does My Business Need Flood Insurance?
CommercialReady - helping you protect your commercial property
Plan for no electricity
Protecting Building Environments from Bioterrorism
Plan to Stay in Business: Four steps
Red Cross Ready Rating Assessment for businesses
Using a Fire Extinguisher - Video
Business Interruption Insurance
Business Continuity Template
Prevent Business Disruption with a Business Continuity Plan
What to include in a Workplace Disaster Supplies Kit
Open for Business: a Business Continuity Plan
Pocket First Aid & CPR
Hands-only CPR
ReUnite App for iphones
First Aid by American Red Cross
National Weather Service
National Hurricane Center
American Red Cross: Shelter View for iphones
Earthquake and Hurricane apps from the American Red Cross
FEMA Disaster Kit App
OSHA Evacuation Plans and Procedures e-Tool
Emergency Management Guide for Business and Industry from FEMA
DISASTER RECOVERY
Tips for Survivors: What to Expect
OSHA Guidelines for preparing workplaces for COVID-19
COVID-19 Employer Tax Credits
PrepareMyBusiness.org
Selling to Disaster-stricken areas
Red Cross Procurement
Settling claims after a disaster
Filing a business disaster claim
Sample Worksheet to Calculate Loss for Business Interruption Insurance
Safety and Health Disaster: Who to Contact
SBA Declared Disasters and links to assistance
OSHA Worker Safety for Recovery of Tornadoes, Floods, and Hurricanes
Get copies of your tax returns
Disaster Unemployment Insurance for employees or self-employed
Recovering from a Disaster: Employee Pay Issues
How to avoid and report scam artists
Watch out for these disaster scams
IRS Disaster and Emergency Relief - Online Videos
Getting Back to Business, a Pamphlet from the Institute of Business and Home Safety
Tips for supervisors to help staff involved in disasters
SBA Disaster Loans
Lose pay after a disaster?
After the Flood: Safety Tips for Business Owners
IRS Business, Casualty, Disaster and Theft Loss Workbook
VIDEOS
|
|
![]() |
|
TRAINING RESOURCES
Think global: the good news and the bad news
Export Business Planner from the SBA
Top Markets for Exporting
Are you export-ready? A short self-assessment
Export-U.com
TradePort; Free Import and Export Trade Tutorial
Basic Guide to Exporting
Successfully doing business around the world
Global business webinars from the National Export Initiative
International trade logistics - an online course
BUSINESS ASSISTANCE
Indiana overseas offices
International Trade Show Assistance
World Trade Club of Indiana
Want to export to China? China Business Information Center
Gold Key Matching Service from the US Commercial Service
Want to import? Global Sourcing Essentials
Indiana State Trade and Export Promotion (In-Step)
Global assistance
Export-Import Bank: Assistance for minority and women-owned businesses
Export Centers of Excellence for industry
Want to market to China? Access America Directory
Consulting, contracting & exporting opportunities with UN Development Business
Exporting Help: US Commercial Service
Leads, Events, Research & More! www.Export.gov
Industry newsletters and reports from the US Commercial Service
Custom market research services from Export.Gov
FINANCIAL RESOURCES
SBA International Trade Loan Program 7a to improve competitiveness
Payment methods when doing International Trade
Handling money overseas
Export-Import Bank Environmental Exports Program
Loans and Export Credit Insurance
Trade Finance Guide: A Quick Reference for Exporters
REGULATORY INFORMATION
Certificate of Origin form
How to complete a NAFTA Certificate of Origin form
Want to sell to Europe? CE mark
INCENTIVE PROGRAMS
Foreign trade zones
VIDEOS
|
![]() |
|
BUSINESS RESOURCES
Help from federal laboratories: Test and research labs for renewable energy
Commercialization Assistance Program from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Industry Growth Forum sponsored by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Models and tools used by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory
FUNDING AND TAX CREDITS
Greentech technology available for licensing from Purdue University
Environmental Export Financing from Export-Import Bank
Angel investor funding for clean-tech companies
|
![]() |
|
MANAGING ENERGY COSTS
Free Data Center Profiler Software Tool Suite from US Department of Energy
Calculate your power usage effectiveness with this tool
Data Center Efficiency Savings Calculator from 42U.com
NFPA 70E: Electrical Safety in the Workplace 3-day Seminar
SAFETY TRAINING
Arc flash safety information
Electrical Safety
Electrical safety hazards from overloaded cable trays
DISASTER RECOVERY
Contingency planning document for federal data centers
IT Disaster recovery template from SearchDisasterRecovery.com
|
![]() |
|
QUALITY CONTROL AND BUSINESS PRACTICES
Forms and checklists for medical practices
Lean Six Sigma in HealthCare
Managing energy costs in health care and hospitals
SAFETY
OSHA COVID-19 guidance for the health care industry
Quick Start: OSHA information for the Health Care Industry
Workplace Violence Prevention Training for Nurses
Workplace Violence Prevention Program for Healthcare and Social Service
Model Plan: OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens
Ergonomic Injury Prevention in Healthcare Service
OSHA resources for health care workers
Nursing Home OSHA e-tool
Patient safety toolkit
ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS
EPA Regulatory Information for Health Care
Healthcare Environmental Resource Center
GOVERNMENT MEDICAL PROGRAMS
Information for Medicare providers (go to bottom to browse by provider type)
TriCare: If you are providing services to current military, veterans or their families
PATIENT PRIVACY
HIPAA privacy requirements
Medical Identity Theft - information from the FTC
HIPAA Security Risk Assessment Tool
|
![]() |
|
TRAINING AND BUSINESS ASSISTANCE
How to approach Life Science funding
European Best Practices for the BioTech Industry
Lab Safety Online Training
Entrepreneur's Guide to a Biotech Startup
Laboratory Quality Management System (LQMS) training toolkit
Starting a Biotech Company: Stanford Entrepreneurship Lecture
National Center for Biotechnology Information
Guide to Biotechnology Finance
International patenting: Patent tutorials from Cambria (Australia)
Biotech Project Management Specialized Online Certificate Program
Interactive e-learning tools for biotechnology
BioDesign - the process of developing medical technologies - book and online information
Biostatistics online training
SAFETY RESOURCES
General biosafety online training from Lawrence Berkeley National Lab
BioSafety manual from Lawrence Berkeley National Lab
VIDEOS
Lab Safety Lesson 5: Safe Chemical Handling
Lab Safety Lesson 6: Other Hazards
Lab How-to Videos from NC BioNetwork
BioDesign: Innovating Medical Technologies
Lab Safety Lesson 1: Proper Dress and Protective Equipment
Lab Safety Lesson 2: Safety Equipment
Lab Safety Lesson 3: Behavior
Lab Safety Lesson 4: Chemical Hazards
|
![]() |
|
|
![]() |
|
BUSINESS ASSISTANCE
Indiana Veteran Business Program
Small Business Development Center counseling
Nominate Employer or Supervisor for supporting Vets
Vets Fast Launch Program from SCORE
Disabled? Veteran Self-Employment Tract
Need more help? SBA Veteran Business Development officers
Veteran Business Resources on Facebook
Veteran Entrepreneur Portal
National Veteran Owned Business Association
FUNDING
Loans for Veterans
Veteran Small Business Awards from StreetShares
Veteran Business Loan Program from AccionUSA
TRAINING
Veteran free Online MBA program
Training funds for service-disabled veterans interested in self-employment
Vwise - entrepreneurship training for women veterans
SELL TO GOVERNMENT
Veteran Institute for Procurement
US DOT Veteran and Service Disabled Owned Small Business Program
SBA Veterans Guide: How to Win Federal Contracts free online course
Verification Assistance Program
FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES
Veteran Franchise Opportunities
Find a vet-owned franchise
|
![]() |
|
DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS
MBE, MBWE, DBE...what do they all mean?
SBA size standards for small businesses
BUSINESS ASSISTANCE
SBA Ascent Learning Platform for Women Entrepreneurs
Central Indiana Women's Business Center
Indiana Hispanic Business Council
Native Edge Online Business Ecosystem
Gener8tor Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
DreamBuilder: the Womens Business Center
FINANCING
Kiva Business Loans from DreamxAmerica
The Mansa Fund for Black and Latinx businesses
Business loans for minority, women and disabled
Woman-owned business? Loans from Accion USA
PRIVATE BUSINESSES
Top 50 organizations for Diversity
|
![]() |
|
BUSINESS PLAN AND ASSISTANCE
Farmers Legal Action Group
Safe Produce Indiana
AgPlan - Business Plan: free software for rural businesses
AgBiz Masters
Guide to Developing a Business Plan for Farms and Rural Businesses
Sample business plans and other resources for farms and ranches
Strategic Business Planning for Commercial Producers from Purdue University
Indiana Infield Advantage
Value-added agriculture: Free and low cost publications from Purdue Extension
AgrAbility: Cultivating Accessible Agriculture for people with disabilities
FUNDING
Ag Loans from Farm Credit
Interactive financial analysis for farmers
Energy Efficiency Loans and Grants for Businesses or Agricultural Producers
The Farmer's Guide to Agricultural Credit
Strategies for dealing with agricultural lenders
Small farm funding resources
USDA Loans for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers
Farming? USDA Farm Service Agency Farm Loan Programs
Agricultural Bond Program
Interpreting financial statements - online video training to improve your farm business
MANAGEMENT
Agriculture Resource Library
Farm Legal Series - information on legal documents used in agriculture
Managing agricultural financial, production and price risks, including information on offsetting risks in the futures markets
Post-Harvest Handling Decision Tool for vegetables
Ag in Uncertain Times
Organic or conventional? Crop conversion calculator
Internet strategies to improve farm management: free e-learning course
Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) voluntary audit verification program from the USDA
BioMass Crop Assistance Program
AgHelp Wanted: Guidelines for Managing Agricultural Labor
Farm first aid kit
RightRisk: Simulation software to evaluate agriculture and ranching risk
Getting on Track: Basic agricultural records
Learning Spanish: Farm vocabulary
Labor Management in Agriculture: Cultivating Personnel Productivity
On-Farm Efficiency Audit Program from Purdue University
FARM SAFETY
OSHA e-tool for Youth in Agriculture
Safe Return to Work from National Farm Medicine Center
SaferFarm.org: Safety toolkit for agriculture
Safety training for Farm and Packing Shed Managers
Safety video clips for agriculture
OSHA Safety and Health Topics for Agriculture
Safer Farm
TAXES AND REGULATIONS
Small Farm Tax Guide from Rural Tax Education
Taxes for Agriculture
IRS Agricultural Tax Center
Regulatory Information for the Agriculture Sector
US Fair Labor Standards for Agricultural Workers
MARKETING
Best Management Practices in agri-tourism
Integrating safety into agri-tourism: worksheets, training & more
Organic marketing resources
Indiana Agritourism and Farmers' Market Online Directory
Marketing 101: Introduction to basic marketing for producers
Marketing to Independent Retailers
Direct Farm Marketing and Tourism Handbook from University of Arizona
Agricultural marketing
EXPORTING
Affected by Retaliatory Tariffs? USDA Market Facilitation Program
Register your business: USDA Local Food Directory Registration
Getting Started with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service
Agricultural Exporters: USDA Export Credit Guarantee Program
International trade shows and marketing events
Export certificates for food
GREEN PRACTICES
Agricultural Waste Management
Environmental Management System for agriculture
National Agricultural Center sponsored by the EPA
Organic Transition Course for agriculture
Agricultural Management Assistance for farms implementing conservation practices
Fieldprint Calculator: How your operation impacts environmental sustainability
National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service
DISASTER
FarmMapper: a disaster tool for farmers and emergency responders
Free online courses in risk management for agriculture
RiskNavigator: Strategic Risk Management for Agriculture
FarmAid: Disaster assistance
USDA Drought Programs
Resources for Agriculture in Drought
Managing Drought Risk on the Ranch
Agricultural Disaster Assistance Programs
OTHER
AgTransitions: online tool to build a plan to transition to the next generation
|
![]() |
|
THE BUSINESS OF ART
Marketing for Artists
Artists, artisans and food specialists: Indiana Artisan Program can help you market
How to Access Health Care in Washington - a guide for artists
Tax and deduction information, checklists and worksheets for artists
SEA: Self Employment in the Arts
Artist in a shelter or homeless? ArtLifting.com
Business webinars for artists from the Arts&Business Council of Greater Boston
Creative Pathfinder - online course for artists
Fine Art Views: Marketing e-newsletter for artists
The Abundant Artist: Courses for selling art online
Creative Capital: financial and advisory support to develop a sustainable career for artists
On-demand webinars for artists from the Arts Council of New Orleans
Call for Entry - a website sponsored by Western States Art Federation
Helping Artisans Reach Global Markets: free e-learning course
Studio Protector: an artists guide to emergency
Emergency financial support and relief for artists from CERF+
ArtsReady - Create a business continuity plan
Grant opportunities with the National Endowment for the Arts
Information about the business of Art from www.gyst-ink.com
Professional Artist Magazine
ZAPP Apply online to art shows
|
![]() |
|
MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING
Project Management for Construction
Construction Best Practices
Online courses for the construction industry from AGC of America
SAFETY TRAINING
OSHA COVID-19 guidance for the Construction Industry
Safety Culture & Safety Climate for Small Contractors
OSHA Compliance Assistance QuickStart for the construction industry
Construction safety training from Texas Dept of Insurance
Hazard alerts for the Construction Industry
Prevention Videos for the Construction Industry
Construction Training Materials: Preventing Head Injuries
Safety resources for the construction industry from OSHA
Vehicle safety program for the construction industry
Construction health and safety information from NIOSH
Ergonomics Training Programs
Training for Construction: Radiofrequency Radiation
Toolbox talks
Construction Job Safety evaluation for new employees
Steel erection, fall protection, and the 4 hazards free training materials
Roadway Safety Training for construction by roadsides
ELCOSH: Library of Construction Occupational Safety and Health
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND GREEN BUSINESS
Green contractor certification
EPA Regulatory Information for Construction
Construction Industry Environmental Compliance Assistance Center
|
![]() |
|
FOOD PRODUCTS AND PROCESSING
Dos and Donts for Food Processors
Food processing publications
Export Essentials - Online training for the food industry
Small Scale Food Entrepreneurship: A Technical Guide for Food Ventures
Information on starting and operating specialty food business
Thinking about becoming a Food Entrepreneur? Here's help
Find a shared part-time commercial kitchen near you
How do I know if my product is regulated by FDA?
Small Business Nutritional Labeling Exemption
MARKETING
Marketing Food Specialty Products Online
Recipe for Success: Selling Food Products
BUSINESS LOANS TO LOCAL PRODUCERS
Food producer? Whole Foods Local Producer Loan Program
ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY
Pollution prevention tool for food processors
Food Processing Environmental Assistance Center
Compliance help and training for small food manufacturers and processors
HACCP plans and tools for the meat industry
Quick Overview of the Food Safety Modernization Act
Online classes in food traceability and food safety
|
![]() |
|
RESOURCES FOR THE LOGISTICS INDUSTRY
Pre-Employment Screening Program from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
Summary of Hours-of-Service (HOS) Regulations
Hours of Service LogBook
Business registration requirements with the Department of Transportation
Wide-load and weight restrictions for US states
Heavy Highway Vehicle Federal Use Tax
Independent contractor or employee?
IRS red flags for the trucking industry
MeasureUp: Compensation information on the logistics
Logistics and Supply Chain Management - information from Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Small entity compliance guide for brokers
SAFETY AND EMPLOYEE TRAINING
What Employees Need to Know about DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing
OSHA safety information for the trucking industry
OSHA loading and unloading requirements
Trucking Injury Reduction Emphasis: TIRES
Sleep apnea and commercial drivers
Ergonomics for Truck Drivers
Online and distance learning courses in logistics from TIA/ILM
USING FORKLIFTS
Using forklifts safely
TRANSPORTING HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Training for the Safe Transportation of Hazardous Materials
HAZMAT Transportation - Overview of Regulations
|
![]() |
|
BUSINESS ASSISTANCE
Supplier Scouting for Difficult to Source Needs
Cybersecurity Resources for Manufacturers
Manufacturing Technical Assistance - MATTR
Reshoring Initiative - bringing manufacturing back home
Industrial Assessment Center at Purdue
Purdue University Manufacturing Extension Partnership Offices
LEAN MANUFACTURING AND BEST PRACTICES
Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing training from Ivy Tech
Introduction to Lean Six Sigma video series
Summary of certifications and business improvement methods
Best practices assessment in manufacturing systems
Manufacturing and Production Best Practices
Self-assessment workbook for small manufacturers: Best practices
GREEN BUSINESS PRACTICES
Advanced Manufacturing Energy Resource Center
US EPA Lean and Environment Toolkit for Manufacturers
Identifying Energy Savings in Manufacturing Plants
Industrial energy savings software from the US Department of Energy
SAFETY
Safety Begins with ME! Free industrial safety program (4 hour of videos)
Preventing employee exposure to unguarded or inadequately guarded machines
REGULATIONS
Regulatory information for manufacturers
Manufacturing a consumer product? Find out about Regulations Here
GLOBAL BUSINESS
Export information for manufacturers
TRAINING AND ONLINE CLASSES
Advanced Manufacturing Institute offered through IvyTech
Online training in inventory and supply chain management from APICS
ToolingU Online job-specific training for industry
|
![]() |
|
GOVERNMENT REQUIREMENTS
IRS Restaurant Tax Center
How to Comply with the Americans with Disability Act: A Guide for Restaurants
Federal menu labeling requirements for chain restaurants (20+ locations)
FOCUS ON RESTAURANTS
For your employees: Tested Techniques to Increase Tips
Restaurant start-up profile
Eight-Step Approach to Controlling Food Cost: a training program for managers and employees
Restaurant Loss Prevention Program from Farmers Insurance
How-to Series from the American Restaurant Association
Reducing Waste and Discharges
Best practices for cleaning and disinfecting stainless steel commercial food equipment
Employee handbook template and standard operating procedure for restaurants
Restaurant Table-Mix Optimizer: a tool from Cornell University
Restaurant loss control toolkit from Farmers Insurance
How to Start a Restaurant guide from allfoodbusiness.com
Sample employee evaluation form for food service employees
Managing your wine cellar: a tool from Cornell University
Sample emergency action plan for retail food operations
FOCUS ON HOTELS
Online courses from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute
How much is your business worth? Hospitality Valuation Software from Cornell University
Setting hotel room pricing for Priceline: a tool from Cornell University
Forecast your hotel revenue: a tool from Cornell University
Staff turnover cost evaluator: a tool from Cornell University
Workforce staffing optimizer tool from Cornell University
HR Products from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute
PROMOTION AND MARKETING
Calculate the Financial Benefits of Green Lodging
Green Lodging resources
Clean the World: Recycle hotel soap
National Restaurant Assoc. Serving up Sustainability
Best Practices Toolkit from Food Waste Reduction Alliance
Involved in tourism? Ways to promote your business
Tourism Business Development Toolbox
Indiana Department of Tourism
Attracting Tourists to Local Businesses
Business assistance to attract foreign customers from US ITA Office of Travel & Tourism Industries
SAFETY
COVID-19 CDC Considerations for Restaurants/Bars
A Menu for Protecting the Health & Safety of Restaurant Workers
Free restaurant safety training program
Choking poster for restaurants
Retail Food Protection: Employee Health & Personal Hygiene Handbook
Teen Worker Safety in Restaurants
Ergonomics for restaurants, hotel room attendants, landscapers
Ergonomics poster for small restaurants
Develop a HACCP program for your food service operation
EMPLOYEE TRAINING
Training for the hospitality and food industry at IvyTech
Hospitality Workplace
Safety Training
Spa and Hospitality Operations - online course
Training for the Hospitality Industry to Recognize Human Trafficking
Online tourism courses from eLearning U
GREENING YOUR BUSINESS
Conserve Sustainability Education Program
H2Otel Water Challenge
Top 10 Green practices for hotels
Seafood Watch: Encouraging restaurants and retailers to sell sustainable fish
Restaurants: Top 10 Green Practices
Energy Star for the Hospitality Industry
|
![]() |
|
FREE AND LOW-COST HELP WITH GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING
Selling to the government requires special credit card processing
Avoiding the bidding process
Promote your Indiana business on the Crane Intranet Yellow Pages
Indiana Subcontractors Association
SBA All Small Mentor-Protege Program
Free and low-cost assistance for selling to the government
Native American? American Indian Procurement Assistance Center
Agencies reaching out to small businesses
INDOT Prequalification
SELLING TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
Selling to Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center
How to Market to the Government - videos from the GSA
Selling to the federal government
SAM (System for Award Management)- to sell the federal government
Federal opportunities for $25,000 and more
Find businesses that sell to the federal government
Certified payroll
Is your product environmentally friendly? Federal government's Bio-Preferred Program
SMALL AND MINORITY CERTIFICATION
Minority and Women Owned Business Contracting Opportunities in Indiana
Indiana MSDC: Minority Business Enterprise Certification
Indiana DOT Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program
Indiana INDOT also certifies disadvantaged business enterprises
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Bonding Assistance Program
Indian Incentive Program when selling to the Department of Defense
Women-owned Small Business Contracting
Certified payroll
SBA 8(a) Protege Program
SELL TO THE STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
Bid Express
Bid on state contracts
Indiana bid opportunities
Sell to the state of Indiana
Sub-contracting opportunities for DOT projects
Sell to cities? Prevailing and livable wage
|
![]() |
|
FUNDING AND FINANCES
Typical commercial lease terms
Retail Lease Primer for Gift Shop Owners
Store benchmark ratios from members of the Retail Owners Institute
Accurate demand planning and forecasting
40 Ways To Improve
Retail Profit Margins from POWER Retailing, Inc
Formulas to calculate key retail ratios
Key financial benchmarks for retail segments
MARKETING
15 strategies for dealing with showrooming
Electronic Retailing
Showrooming: Its What they Do
OmniChannel Selling - using multiple channels to sell
Attracting customers with effective merchandising
Attracting Tourists to Local Businesses
8 Ways to Improve Customer Loyalty
RETAIL MANAGEMENT
Post COVID-19 Strategies for Retailers
OSHA COVID-19 guidance for the Retail Industry
Reducing Shoplifting Losses
Do you have a Clear Zone?
A Practical Guide to Retailing
Safety Training for General Merchandise Stores
Ergonomic Solutions for Retailers
Retail Essentials: How to Open and Run a Successful Retail Store
Key Performance Indicators for Retail Businesses
23 Customer Care Best Practices from Retail Leaders
No Tobacco under 18: WeCard training
Top 6 Most Effective but Least Used Retail Best Practices
Retail Insight Center
Retail Security Awareness: Understanding the Hidden Hazards
Shoplifting Manual developed by Eugene Police Dept.
Shoplifting information for retailers
Workplace Violence Prevention for Late-Night Retailers
FREE AND LOW-COST CLASSES
Retail Fundamentals online class
Low cost retail training
|