Start a Business in 10 Steps
Download our free step-by-step guide to get your Iowa business started and making money in no time!
Enter your information below to download our free 2025 Start a Business Guide! After you click the Request Now button, you’ll gain immediate access to the PDF and a copy will be sent to your email.
Since 2012, IASourceLink has assisted
How-to Guides
Starting a business in Iowa has never been easier. Check out our step-by-step guides below to learn the requirements to start your business, find funding opportunities, expand your business to Iowa, or even start your own food truck!
Startup Guide
2025 Start a Business Guide
Find the steps, tips and resources you need to start a business in Iowa.
Funding Guide
2023 Fund My Business Guide
Ready for funding? Find out how to get business loans, grants and equity funding.
Food Truck Guide
We proudly partner with 400 organizations like these to bring you accurate licensing information & free resources
Search for Business Licensing
Did you know that Iowa doesn’t have a general business license? Instead, the state regulates individual industries and businesses based on the types of products and services they offer. Confused? Don’t be! We wrote a helpful blog to help explain this a little more. You can also easily search for licensing on our website, or contact our team for personalized assistance!
Child Care Centers & Services
Required Licensing
When providing child care services in the state of Iowa there are many requirements, including licensing, to consider. Child care businesses are regulated by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.
Construction & Contractors
Required Licensing
Iowa law requires all individual “Construction Contractors” and businesses performing “construction” work to be registered with the Iowa Division of Labor if they earn at least $2,000 a year from construction.
Food Trucks & Restaurants
Required Licensing
The Department of Inspections and Appeals Food and Consumer Safety Bureau handles licensing for both Food Service and Mobile Food Establishments.
Vending Machines
Required Licensing
According to the Iowa Food Code, vending machines are defined as self-service food devices that dispense units of food in packages when a user inserts paper money, coins, tokens, cards, or keys.
Trivia Question
How long has IASourceLink been assisting Iowa entrepreneurs? Answer: Over 10 years! We pride ourselves in being the go-to spot for anyone wanting to begin their entrepreneurial journey in our wonderful state. Do you need help getting your business started? Make sure to send us a message or check out our more than 400 Resource Partners from across the state who can assist you for free!
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