2025
Start a Business in Iowa
A FREE 10-step guide to starting your very own business in Iowa!
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.
Tip!
Use our Start a Business Checklist as you go through this guide so you do not forget any steps for launching your business.
Enter your information below to download our free 2025 Start a Business Checklist! After you click the Request Now button, you’ll gain immediate access to the PDF and a copy will be sent to your email.
STEP ONE
Decide to Start a Business
Starting a business can be fun, exciting, and even scary. Keep these things in-mind to ensure a smooth start.
STEP TWO
Conduct Market Research
Who is your customer? Learn how to conduct market research to discover your target market, competitors, and industry trends. Then, you can make informed business decisions and increase your chances of success!
STEP THREE
Choose a Business Name
Choosing a name for your business is essential, but it is not necessarily a death sentence if the name does not seem like “the perfect fit” or “descriptive enough.” Use these tips to help make the process of picking your business name less overwhelming.
STEP FOUR
Write a Business Plan
What is a business plan? What do I write in it? How do I make writing one feel less scary? If you asked yourself any of these questions, we have the answers for you and a free business plan template to help you get started!
STEP FIVE
Register a Business
Registering your business in Iowa is an essential step to legally conduct business within the state. Learn about the various business structures and the steps to register each one.
STEP SIX
Pay Federal, State, and Local Taxes
Taxes. You may not like them, but you cannot avoid them. Learn about federal and state taxes and collecting and remitting them.
STEP SEVEN
Apply for Licensing and Permits
“What licenses do I need to operate my business in Iowa?” We hear that question almost every day, but the answer is different for everyone. Here are step-by-step directions to help you figure out the correct licenses for your specific Iowa business.
STEP EIGHT
Fund Your Business
How much money do you need to start your business? Learn how to calculate your start-up costs and strategies to start funding your business as soon as today!
STEP NINE
Pick Your Business Location
Picking the right business location is critical to your success. Explore various aspects and types to figure out what is best for your business.
STEP TEN
Understand Business Insurance
Business insurance is the first line of defense if your business experiences liabilities such as natural disasters or lawsuits. Learn about common types of business insurance and steps for buying them.
CONGRATULATIONS!
Next Steps
You are ready for your business to take off! We cannot wait to see your business succeed, and IASourceLink will be here no matter what your business needs are.