Guide to Starting and Operating a Small Business

Starting a small business can feel tough, but you don’t have to do it alone! The Michigan SBDC is here to connect you with insight and resources to help your small business succeed.

This guide is designed for anyone looking to start a small or grow their small business in Michigan. We’ll cover:

  1. Ten Steps to Starting a Business
  2. Business Plan Outline
  3. Business Legal Issues
  4. Financial Management
  5. Marketing Your Business
  6. Hiring Your First Employee

The Guide is also available in Spanish, Chinese, and Arabic.

US Small Business Administration Logo Michigan Economic Development Corporation Logo America

The Michigan Small Business Development Center is a statewide network funded in part through cooperative agreements with the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Regional Hosts. The statewide host of the network is Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University. The Michigan SBDC is nationally accredited by the Association of SBDCs.