Resource Links

Listed below is a generic guideline of what you may need to do to start your own small business and resources that are available in the State of Maryland.

1. Trade Name Application

• Filled out before you start your business
• Used to register your business in the State of Maryland
• Visit www.dat.state.md.us/sdatweb/sdatforms.html or 410-767-1340

2. EIN Number

• Filed by sole proprietors, Limited Liability Companies (LLC) and Corporations
• Contact the IRS at www.irs.gov

3. Licenses and Permits

• Needed for most businesses
• www.blis.state.md.us

4. Legal Requirements

• Be informed about the different legal structures and their benefits.
• www.business.gov

5. Small Business Administration

• Provides information to all start up business owners and offers funding assistance to entrepreneurs in Maryland.
• www.sba.gov.

6. Employment laws

• www.dol.gov/elaws

7. Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

•Offers free one on one counseling, training and assistance in all aspects of small business management.

• www.mdsbdc.umd.edu.

8. SCORE

•Offers free and confidential advice to small business owners through face to face counseling and online counseling.
• www.score.org.

9. Demographic Information

• Detailed state, county, micropolitan and metropolitan statistical data for companies seeking new business locations.
• www.developmentalliance.com

10. Credit Agencies

• Provides credit history details. Should be pulled if looking to start a business and seeking a small business loan. Each individual gets ONE FREE credit report per year, which usually does not include your credit score.
• www.transunion.com
• www.experian.com
• www.equifax.com
• www.annualcreditreport.com

11. Chamber of Commerce

• Local chambers are a great networking too!
• If you are located in Wicomico, Somerset, Worcester and Dorchester counties, please visit their websites at:

1. Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce
2. The Greater Ocean City Chamber
3. Pocomoke City Chamber of Commerce
4. Dorchester Chamber of Commerce