Getting Started

A successful business doesn't grow itself. It takes time, energy, patience and a great deal of pre-planning. The links below are good. general reference-points for entrepreneurs interested in starting a business in Rhode Island's East Bay - Warren, Barrington and Bristol. 

Rhode Island Department of state: Starting a Business in Rhode Island: 
​http://sos.ri.gov/divisions/business-portal/business-basics  

Excerpt: Starting a BUsiness

Tips & advice for entrepreneurs from business planning expert Tim Berry. 
This chapter is an excerpt from Tim Berry’s classic business planning manual, Hurdle: The Book on Business Planning. Hurdle focuses on developing a business plan for a specific business event, such as starting up a new business, or seeking outside funding. Learn more >>

SBA Webinar: Creating a BUsiness Plan

In this webinar for the U.S. Small Business Administration, business planning expert Tim Berry helps entrepreneurs and small businesses better understand how to create a business plan. Watch Video >>

Sample Business Plans

What is a business plan and how does it guide you to success? Browse more than 500 business plan examples at BPlans.com. Learn more >>   

Cost of doing business

Figure out the dollars and cents of getting your business off the ground with this start-up costs estimator. Learn more >>

The Ultimate start-up checklist

The My Own Business Institute at Santa Clara University has compiled an extensive check-list for would-be-business owners. Get started >>

Business terms glossary

Did you know that harvesting - in business terms - referrs to selling a business or product line, as when a company sells a product line or division or a family sells a business? BPlans.com has all the definitions you need to know to navigate business jargon. A suggestion, bookmark the page. Learn more >> 

Franchises

Owning a franchise may prove more beneficial than starting a business from scratch. Read about the ups and downs of operating a franchise, and whether it's a good investment for you. Learn more >>

SBDC: The Right Foot - Setting Up Your Business

​The Right Foot
Session One; Setting Up Your Business There are three parts to this session that include; steps in organizing your business, registering your business with the Secretary of State’s Office, and different legal forms of business that are best for your business. 
Part One:
Steps In Organizing Your Business – video 
Steps In Organizing Your Business – powerpoint slides
Part Two:
Registering Your Business With The Secretary of State’s Office – video
Registering Your Business With The Secretary of State’s Office – powerpoint slides
Part Three:
Legal Forms of Business That Are Best For Your Business – video
Legal Forms of Business That Are Best For Your Business – powerpoint slidesFunded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBDCs are a program supported by SBA and extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. SBA cannot endorse any products, opinions, or services of any external parties or activities. By contacting our office and requesting at least two weeks in advance, every attempt will be made to reasonably accommodate persons with disabilities and those who need translation services. Please contact Susan Davis in our lead center at 401-874-7232 to make such arrangements.