(Photo courtesy of SocialMonsters)
There are over 261,156 non-employer establishments in Oregon and 348,154 different business firms, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The state opens its arms to small businesses looking to make an impact in the community. Entrepreneurs may love the number of self-employed and small businesses the state has to offer. But they also love what Oregon doesn’t offer. That includes no general sales and use tax, no inventory tax, no direct levies on intangible properties like stocks and bonds and plenty more.
You may already be sold on doing business in Oregon or trying to establish yourself as an entrepreneur, but that doesn’t mean getting started or knowing how to grow your company is a simple task. Here are four online resources for small business owners looking to launch and make an impact.
Get All of the Training You Can
Many entrepreneurs think the Small Business Association (SBA) is just an organization that secures loans for business owners. It’s true the SBA can help secure guaranteed loans to develop your business, but they also offer a wealth of other tools. Oregon’s SBA office offers news, tips and resource guides for small businesses. Learn more about their services available like free training from area business experts in areas like development and marketing. The SBA also offers financial assistance and loans, a women’s business center and entrepreneurship training.
Understanding Insurance Options
It’s easy to dismiss insurance as something you’ll deal with later after your business is up and running and you have time to think about next steps. But proper insurance could restore your business after a natural disaster or help with day-to-day issues like non-paying clients. Figure out what type of insurance your business could benefit from by doing some research online or consulting with an agent.
For example, flood insurance can protect your company against the thousands of dollars in damage caused from flooding, storm surges and natural disasters. Insurance can also help your cash flow and bottom line. Business credit insurance, or trade insurance, can help provide the policyholder with some or all of the invoice amount.
Network With Fellow Business Owners
The Main Street Alliance of Oregon works to lobby for small business rights and level the playing field. In 2009, the organization worked to pass healthcare reform in Congress by writing letters, making phone calls and educating small business owners. The alliance has also created a statewide leadership circle of over 50 business owners and performed press work and events with Oregon Congress persons. While the organization works to raise awareness about small business issues and pass legislation, they also offer workshops on topics like fundamentals of negotiations, pitch clinics and general business consultations.
Learn What Issues Affect Your Future
The National Federation of Independent Business’s (NFIB) mission is to protect the future of small business. Their annual NFIB Small Business Playbook can help figure out managing taxes, brush up on labor law regulations, healthcare news and other issues affecting business owners. Look for local events from the Oregon chapter, news affecting your state and how to get involved. Online resources are free to use, but there’s also a paid membership option with plenty of perks. Members save on services like FedEx, credit card processing fees, hotel discounts and even $500 on select vehicles.
