I’m starting a business, but where do I start?

January 5, 2022

Starting a business venture can be both exciting and intimidating. The division is here to help you with the registration process, but we realize that you may need some help before you’re ready to see us. Both the State of Utah and the U.S. federal government have reliable resources available to help you.

State of Utah: Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity – Go Utah

This agency exists to support businesses and entrepreneurs with a goal of increasing economic opportunity in the state. Go Utah has compiled a helpful list of resources for those who are starting a new business, including:

  • Planning your business;
  • Getting business assistance and training;
  • Choosing a location;
  • Financing;
  • Legal structure/business type;
  • Naming and registering your business;
  • Networking;
  • Marketing;
  • Funding, incentives and contract assistance;
  • Training and staffing;
  • Business consultants;
  • Innovation, research and commercialization;
  • Business resources for women;
  • Advocacy/legislation/Utah Code;
  • Exporting; and
  • An economic development map.

Also, don’t miss out on Go Utah’s other business support resources located here. Whether you are a prospective business owner here in Utah or an existing business looking to grow, you should connect with the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (Go Utah).

Federal Government: U.S. Small Business Administration

Another source of support for businesses is the U.S. Small Business Administration, a federal agency with a District Office in Salt Lake City. Even if you are not in the Salt Lake City area, you can benefit greatly from SBA’s online resources:

  • If you like having a game plan, the SBA’s 10 steps to start your business guide may be for you.
  • The SBA’s Learning Platform provides courses on numerous business-related topics, and is a great for both new businesses and businesses looking to expand
  • “Insights and updates from SBA’s small business experts” are available on the SBA Blog
  • Understand the pros and cons of different business structures using the SBA’s Choose a business structure page