You are not alone in your journey toward running a small business.  Countless people have gone before you in similar efforts.  It is important that you find people who can properly guide you on the road to a business start up.

Here are a few people you should talk with before getting started.  This is not an exhaustive list--the nature and location of your business could have additional requirements.  These people should be able to guide you to others that you need to talk with.

• Chamber of Commerce Representatives.   Your local chamber can give you insight into business trends and possible opportunites in you area.  The chamber may sponsor regular meetings of local business people where you can meet and network with business professionals in your area.  The chamber may also be able to give you the names of people on local economic development councils--who might have information about advantageous business start-up programs in your area.
   
• Local Entrepreneurs.  To gain real insight into the entrepreneurial opportunities and challenges in your area, go talk with people who are already out there doing it.  While there probably won't be many of your future direct competitors eager to spill their hearts to you about the secrets of succeeding in their industries, there will be plenty of others eager and willing to give advice and teach you the ropes.
   
• Trade Representatives.  Almost every industry has a trade association.  Members of trade associations have access to information about the latest trends and opportunities in the market.  Trade associations also typically have information about market trends and market research.
   
• Small Business Development Centers.   The United States government uses tax money to support development and resource centers across the country for small business owners.  Local SBDC offices have counselors who can help you perform market research, write business plans, and explore funding options.  These services are typically free--they are taxpayer supported.   SBDC counselors will also be able to tell you of special programs that the government sponsors to encourage business development and ownership by certain people, in certain industries, and in certain areas of the country.  They might also be able to tell you about nearby small business incubators that can provide you with low-rent office space to help you get your venture off the ground.
   
• Attorney.  When considering a business idea, it is imperative that you get sound legal advice early in the process.  There may be certain legal requirements in your proposed industry and there may be contracts that have to be entered into to begin the business.  Leases will probably also be required for store/office space.  Attorneys can also provide assistance with employment and daily business issues that must be attended to in order to avoid big headaches down the road.  Attorneys can also provide guidance on the legal form that is best for your business (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, etc.).  
   
• Accountant.  In addition to a good attorney, it is wise to find a good accountant.  An accountant can give you guidance on record keeping and how to best use your money to manage your tax burdens.   Accountants know the tax laws and can help you get the most out of your earnings.
   
• Banker. Local bankers will be able to provide you with the ins and outs of opening business banking accounts and the requirements for business loans.
   
• Commercial Realtor. A good realtor will be able to help you find the perfect location for your venture.  Local realtors will know zoning laws and be able to determine the proper zoning requirements for your operation.  They will have knowledge of going lease and property rates and be able to help you find the right location for your needs.
    
• County Clerk's Office.  The county clerk's office should be able to tell you whether a business license or permit is needed for your venture.  They should also know about the requirements and fees associated with receiving an assumed name permit (i.e., a dba or "doing business as" permit) and could provide contact information for other local permit offices--health, fire, etc.
     
• State Tax Collection (Comptroller) Office.  You must check with your state tax office to discover if and how you need to collect sales tax on your business sales.