10-STEP GUIDE
Start a Business in Iowa
Make sure you take the right steps to set up and establish your new business in Iowa.

STEP ONE
Evaluate My Business Idea
Starting a business is fun, exciting, and can feel overwhelming, keep these things in-mind to ensure a smooth start.

STEP TWO
Write My Business Plan
Evaluate customer segments and competition through developing a business plan.

STEP THREE
Register My Business Entity
Determine what business structure is best for you and how to register it.

STEP FOUR
Register for Tax Permits
Learn about and discover resources to help you collect and remit taxes.

STEP FIVE
Additional Licensing
In order to operate your business, you may need to fulfill various licensing obligations. Each business is different – find out what you’ll need.

STEP SIX
Get My Business Online
Is your business only online? Planning on selling on and offline? Learn about how laws and regulations may apply differently to your business.

STEP SEVEN
Choose a Business Location
Everything you need to consider when looking for a business location.

STEP EIGHT
Find Funding Opportunities
There are many options to find capital for your business. Explore the different options for funding your business.

STEP NINE
Find, Hire and Manage Employees
Employees will make your business scale and grow, keep up with all the things you’ll need to be a successful employer.

STEP TEN
Next Steps
Do it. Action leads to results. Connect with people that can support you once your business is started.