Start a Business Guide

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.

woman standing facing camera with stop hand signal
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.

person writing out business ideas on sticky notes that they have placed on a window
STEP TWO

Write My Business Plan

Evaluate customer segments and competition through developing a business plan.

woman sitting at desk with pen and paper
STEP THREE

Register My Business Entity

Determine what business structure is best for you and how to register it.

man and woman sitting at table looking at printed receipts
STEP FOUR

Register for Tax Permits

Learn about and discover resources to help you collect and remit taxes.

man in suite holding a paper card with word licensing written on it
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.

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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.

empty warehouse that is really well lit
STEP SEVEN

Choose a Business Location

Everything you need to consider when looking for a business location.

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STEP EIGHT

Find Funding Opportunities

There are many options to find capital for your business. Explore the different options for funding your business.

man conducting an interview for a potential new employee
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.

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STEP TEN

Next Steps

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