Small Business Resources

About.Com Small Business Information:
http://www.sbinformation.about.com/cs/bizplansamples/

About.Com Small Business Information offers a wide range of free business plan samples.

American Express Small Business Network:
http://home3.americanexpress.com/smallbusiness/tool/biz_plan/index.asp

The American Express Small Business Network offers a full spectrum of tips and "how-tos" on running a small business.

Bplans.Com:
www.bplans.com

Bplans.com contains the largest single collection of free sample business plans online. It also has helpful tools and know-how for managing your business.

CCH Business Owner's Toolkit:
http://www.toolkit.cch.com/

CCH Business Owner's Toolkit will educate you on small business in addition to providing a comprehensive list of business tools-including links to all major government and tax forms a small business owner would need.

Center for Business Planning and Development:
http://www.bdag.org/index.html

The Center for Business Planning and Development is located in Falls Church and is a partnership among the Northern Virginia Workforce Investment Board, Business Development Assistance Group, and Fairfax County Department of Family Services. The mission of the center is to provide resources and technical assistance to emerging entrepreneurs and existing businesses throughout Northern Virginia. The center offers a state-of-the-art conference room equipped with video projection services and a computer lab with five high-speed computers, all of which are available for use at no charge.

The center also offers extensive labor market information, business print publications, reference materials and other resources in a variety of languages. Workshops are conducted in a wide range of topics, including: How to Start a Business; Writing a Business Plan; Introduction to Entrepreneurship; and Cash Flow Analysis and Financial Planning. One-on-one counseling services to assist prospective entrepreneurs in identifying the steps that are needed to start a business are also available, and provide technical assistance in essential operational and legal procedures.

The Department of Virginia Business Assistance:
http://www.dba.state.va.us/

The Mission of the Department of Business Assistance is to promote economic growth by helping Virginia businesses prosper. The agency carries out its mission through its programs and services, which include: access to capital, small business counseling, workforce training, and pro-active business problem-solving.

The Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship:
http://www.rhsmith.umd.edu/dingman/

The Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship at the Robert H. Smith School of Business, University of Maryland offers consulting services and networks to capital and management to entrepreneurs. Services include Business Plan Review, Market and Technology Assessment and Mentoring. They manage the Capital Access Network that connects entrepreneurs with angel investors. They also conduct events such as the Venture Capital Forum connecting various elements of the entrepreneurial community.

Entreworld.org:
www.entreworld.org

The Kauffman Foundation's online resource for entrepreneurs provides more than 1,000 articles, audio clips, tools, databases and even town-to-town small business event listings.

Inc.Com:
http://www.inc.com/guides/start_biz/

Inc.Com's guide to "How-To/Starting a Business," which lists links that will help an entrepreneur get started with various aspects of their business.

The Library of Congress' Business Reference Services:
http://www.loc.gov/rr/business/assists/exim.html

The Library of Congress' Business Reference Services assists information seekers with "BRS Assists," which are short bibliographies compiled by the staff of the Business Reference Section to assist users in quickly locating basic information on topics for which the Section receives frequent questions.

MIT Enterprise Forum:
http://www.mitef.org

The MIT Enterprise Forum of Washington-Baltimore is a non-profit, volunteer organization established to support and promote high-tech entrepreneurship in the greater Washington D.C. and Baltimore area. The Forum emphasizes high-tech start-ups and maturing businesses, and issues relevant to the local area. This Forum is one of 25 chapters throughout the world. MIT's StartupLab is aimed at emerging start-ups (< $500K revenue; written business plan) and is 90-minute session focused around the company's business plan. The company, expert panelists, and a knowledgeable audience all participate in the StartLab by discussing the companies plan.

SCORE:
www.score.org

SCORE, "Counselors to America's Small Business," is a non-profit association dedicated to providing entrepreneurs with free, confidential face-to-face and email business counseling. Business counseling and workshops are offered at 389 chapter offices across the country.

Small Business Development Centers (SBDC):

For Virginia SBDCs: http://www.sba.gov/va/vasbdc.html

For Washington DC and Maryland SBDCs: http://www.sba.gov/dc/dcsbdc.html

Small Business Development Centers provide business assistance, counseling and training to growing companies and aspiring entrepreneurs. One-on-one counseling and business courses are available in the areas of start-up, sources of capital, accounting, management, marketing and business planning.

The United States Small Business Administration:
www.sbaonline.sba.gov

The SBA maintains and strengthens the nation's economy by aiding, counseling, assisting and protecting, the interests of small businesses.

AllBusiness.Com:
http://www.allbusiness.com/legal/2976217-1.html

Through the AllBusiness Web site, entrepreneurs, businesses, consultants, and business professionals are able to access a comprehensive set of information, tools, and services to start and grow a business, solve business problems, raise capital, enhance sales and marketing, obtain strategic advice, and leverage the business community.

American Express Small Business Network:
https://home.americanexpress.com/home/open.shtml?pers_home=sbstab

The American Express Small Business Network offers a full spectrum of tips and "how-tos" on running a small business.

BusinessLaw.Gov:
http://www.businesslaw.gov

BusinessLaw.gov is an online resource guide designed to provide legal and regulatory information to America's small businesses. Entrepreneurs can use BusinessLaw.gov to scan checklists to quickly define their problems and find solutions on topics ranging from federal advertising laws to local zoning codes. In addition to self-help articles, interactive guides, and the ability to complete transactions on line such as applying for a Federal EIN, the site also connects users with sources of in-person help from government officials, attorneys and business counselors in their local area.

Center for Business Planning and Development:
http://www.bdag.org/index.html
center_for_businessplanning.asp

The Center for Business Planning and Development is located in Falls Church and is a partnership among the Northern Virginia Workforce Investment Board, Business Development Assistance Group, and Fairfax County Department of Family Services. The mission of the center is to provide resources and technical assistance to emerging entrepreneurs and existing businesses throughout Northern Virginia. The center offers a state-of-the-art conference room equipped with video projection services and a computer lab with five high-speed computers, all of which are available for use at no charge.

The center also offers extensive labor market information, business print publications, reference materials and other resources in a variety of languages. Workshops are conducted in a wide range of topics, including: How to Start a Business; Writing a Business Plan; Introduction to Entrepreneurship; and Cash Flow Analysis and Financial Planning. One-on-one counseling services to assist prospective entrepreneurs in identifying the steps that are needed to start a business are also available, and provide technical assistance in essential operational and legal procedures.

Entreworld.org:
http://www.entrepreneurship.org/ResourcesCenter/

The Kauffman Foundation's online resource for entrepreneurs provides more than 1,000 articles, audio clips, tools, databases and even town-to-town small business event listings.

Human Resources Law Index:
http://www.hrlawindex.com/

Put simply the Human Resource Law Index is "legal information you need in language you can understand."

The Jacob Burns Community Legal Clinics:
http://www.law.gwu.edu/Academics/EL/clinics/Pages/Overview.aspx

The Clinics have the goal to provide members of the community with critically needed legal services while giving motivated law students the opportunity to experience the practical application of law and to develop skills as negotiators, advocates, and litigators within an exciting and supportive educational environment.

The 'Lectric Law Library:
http://www.lectlaw.com

The "Lectric Law Library gives access to free tips and articles on regulations and taxes; pros and cons and laws governing different business structures like corporations, partnerships and LLCs; Hiring and Firing; Financial matters and more.

My Own Business, Inc:
http://http://www.myownbusiness.org/business_taxes.html/

All you need to know about Small Business taxes. A collection of valuable resources which includes links to the appropriate IRS sections and forms.

MoreBusiness.com:
http://www.morebusiness.com/

MoreBusiness.com offers comprehensive small business resources, educational articles and free downloadable forms for the small business owner.

NOLO: Law For All:
http://www.nolo.com/lawcenter/index.cfm

NOLO offers Small Business legal information for starting a business, choosing a business structure, writing a business plan and more.

Northern Virginia Economic Development Authorities:

Economic Development Authorities exist to help entrepreneurial firms in their regions with the complicated process of starting a new company, including finding affordable real estate for offices, obtaining county permits and benefiting from tax incentive etc.

Alexandria City:
http://www.alexecon.org/

Arlington County:
http://www.co.arlington.va.us/departments/AED/AEDMain.aspx?tab=Business

The City of Fairfax:
http://www.fairfaxva.gov/Business/Business.asp

Fairfax County:
http://www.fairfaxcountyeda.org

City of Falls Church:
http://www.fallschurchva.gov

The Town of Leesburg:
http://www.leesburgva.com

Loudoun County:
http://www.loudoun.gov/business/

The City of Manassas:
http://www.manassascity.org/

Prince William County:
http://www.pwcecondev.org/

The Small Business Administration's (SBA) Business Advisor:
http://www.business.gov/

Over 60 different federal organizations exist to assist or regulate business. With this many sources of information, finding what you want can be complicated and time-consuming. In keeping with the Administration's eGovernment vision of using Information Technology to enable better customer service, federal agencies worked together to build the U.S. Business Advisor - a one-stop electronic link to the information and services government provides for the business community. The U.S. Business Advisor was created by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and an interagency task force.

TANNEDFEET.Com:
http://www.tannedfeet.com

"The Entrepreneurs' Help Page" This Web site distributes basic information on legal, financial, and management issues that commonly affect people who are just starting up their businesses.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce-Small Business:
http://www.uschamber.com/sb

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce offers tips, advice and resources for small businesses.

The U.S. Copyright Office:
http://www.copyright.gov

The U.S. Copyright Office Web site connects you to the office's key publications, including informational circulars; application forms for copyright registration; links to the copyright law and to the homepages of other copyright-related organizations; news of what the Office is doing, including business-process reengineering plans, Congressional testimony and press releases; their latest regulations; a link to their online copyright records cataloged since 1978; and more.

The U.S. Department of Labor:
http://www.dol.gov/

Find labor standards, information and contact information for your local labor department.

Virginia Government:
http://www.virginia.gov/cmsportal/employment_850/
starting_981/index.html

The Virginia Government offers numerous resources for the entrepreneur to get started in the state of Virginia.

The Virginia Small Business Assistance Program for Environmental Compliance Assistance:
http://www.deq.state.va.us/osba/

The Virginia Small Business Assistance Program for Environmental Compliance is a "non-regulatory," voluntary program within the Department of Environmental Quality. They offer small businesses free technical assistance on air quality and related environmental requirements. Their mission is to help small businesses comply with the Clean Air Act and Virginia's air regulations, not to enforce their compliance. The Virginia Small Business Assistance Program is also a free and confidential service.

WikiPatents
http://www.wikipatents.com

WikiPatents has a database of millions of patents and patent applications, allows PDF downloading of patents, provides file histories, and other helpful information. It is an excellent free resource for researchers, entrepreneurs, inventors and students.

Women-21.gov:
http://www.women-21.gov

Women-21.gov is a one-stop federal resource for targeted information, registration for online programs, and networking opportunities to help women entrepreneurs navigate the ever-changing business world and do what they do best: innovate, create jobs, and make a vital contribution to the strength of America.

Accountants World:
http://www.accountantsworld.com/

Accountants World provides helpful small business accounting information and tips.

AllBusiness.Com:
http://www.allbusiness.com/accounting/2984839-1.html

Through the AllBusiness Web site, entrepreneurs, businesses, consultants, and business professionals are able to access a comprehensive set of information, tools, and services to start and grow a business, solve business problems, raise capital, enhance sales and marketing, obtain strategic advice, and leverage the business community.

American Express Small Business Network:
http://home3.americanexpress.com/smallbusiness/
Landing/tax_center_main.asp

The American Express Small Business Network offers a full spectrum of tips and "how-tos" on running a small business.

Center for Business Planning and Development:
http://www.bdag.org/index.htmlp

The Center for Business Planning and Development is located in Falls Church and is a partnership among the Northern Virginia Workforce Investment Board, Business Development Assistance Group, and Fairfax County Department of Family Services. The mission of the center is to provide resources and technical assistance to emerging entrepreneurs and existing businesses throughout Northern Virginia. The center offers a state-of-the-art conference room equipped with video projection services and a computer lab with five high-speed computers, all of which are available for use at no charge.

The center also offers extensive labor market information, business print publications, reference materials and other resources in a variety of languages. Workshops are conducted in a wide range of topics, including: How to Start a Business; Writing a Business Plan; Introduction to Entrepreneurship; and Cash Flow Analysis and Financial Planning. One-on-one counseling services to assist prospective entrepreneurs in identifying the steps that are needed to start a business are also available, and provide technical assistance in essential operational and legal procedures.

Entreworld.org:
http://www.entrepreneurship.org/Resources/Resources.aspx?TID=Finance+%26+Accounting

The Kauffman Foundation's online resource for entrepreneurs provides more than 1,000 articles, audio clips, tools, databases and even town-to-town small business event listings.

Inc.Com:
http://www.inc.com/guides/finance/

Inc.Com's guide to "How-To/Starting a Business," which lists links that will help an entrepreneur get started with various aspects of their business.

IRS.Gov:
http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/

IRS online offers a plethora of tax information for the small business owner-take an online workshop, find needed forms and learn about new laws and regulations.

The Library of Congress' Business Reference Services:
http://www.loc.gov/rr/business/assists/exim.html

The Library of Congress' Business Reference Services assists information seekers with "BRS Assists," which are short bibliographies compiled by the staff of the Business Reference Section to assist users in quickly locating basic information on topics for which the Section receives frequent questions.

The Small Business Administration's (SBA) Business Advisor:
http://www.business.gov/

Over 60 different federal organizations exist to assist or regulate business. With this many sources of information, finding what you want can be complicated and time-consuming. In keeping with the Administration's eGovernment vision of using Information Technology to enable better customer service, federal agencies worked together to build the U.S. Business Advisor - a one-stop electronic link to the information and services government provides for the business community. The U.S. Business Advisor was created by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and an interagency task force.

SmartBiz.Com:
http://www.smartbiz.com

SmartBiz.Com offers advice for the small business owner on management, marketing and PR, sales, finance, and Human Resources.

SmartPros Accounting:
http://www.pro2net.com/

SmartPros Ltd. offers over 2,000 hours of online and offline continuing education content for professionals.

Tax & Accounting Sites Directory:
http://www.taxsites.com/

Tax and Accounting Sites Directory is a comprehensive index of web-based tax and accounting resources. The directory is designed to be a starting point for people who are searching for tax and accounting information, products, and services.

VentureLine:
http://www.ventureline.com/glossary.asp

VentureLine's glossary page lists all of the accounting terminology one needs to know.

Women Entrepreneurs inc. (WE inc):
http://www.we-inc.org

WE inc. is a non-profit business association that works to improve and enhance the economic climate for women entrepreneurship. By advocating for policy solutions that encourage business ownership by women, and providing information and resources to entrepreneurs at all stages of their business development, WE inc. aims to increase economic opportunity and financial security for those seeking the risky but rewarding path of entrepreneurship.

Women-21.gov:
http://www.women-21.gov

Women-21.gov is a one-stop federal resource for targeted information, registration for online programs, and networking opportunities to help women entrepreneurs navigate the ever-changing business world and do what they do best: innovate, create jobs, and make a vital contribution to the strength of America.

Visit the The Entrepreneur Center @ NVTC Funding Resources page.

AllBusiness.Com:
http://www.allbusiness.com/accounting/2984839-1.html

Through the AllBusiness Web site, entrepreneurs, businesses, consultants, and business professionals are able to access a comprehensive set of information, tools, and services to start and grow a business, solve business problems, raise capital, enhance sales and marketing, obtain strategic advice, and leverage the business community.

American Express Small Business Network:
https://home.americanexpress.com/home/open.shtml?pers_home=sbstab

The American Express Small Business Network offers a full spectrum of tips and "how-tos" on running a small business.

The Department of Virginia Business Assistance:
http://www.dba.state.va.us/

The Mission of the Department of Business Assistance is to promote economic growth by helping Virginia businesses prosper. The agency carries out its mission through its programs and services, which include: access to capital, small business counseling, workforce training, and pro-active business problem-solving.

The Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship:
http://www.rhsmith.umd.edu/dingman/

The Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship at the Robert H. Smith School of Business, University of Maryland offers consulting services and networks to capital and management to entrepreneurs. Services include Business Plan Review, Market and Technology Assessment and Mentoring. They manage the Capital Access Network that connects entrepreneurs with angel investors. They also conduct events such as the Venture Capital Forum connecting various elements of the entrepreneurial community.

Entreworld.org:
http://www.entrepreneurship.org/Resources/Resources.aspx?TID=Finance+%26+Accounting

The Kauffman Foundation's online resource for entrepreneurs provides more than 1,000 articles, audio clips, tools, databases and even town-to-town small business event listings.

FundingPost.Com:
http://www.fundingpost.com

FundingPost.Com offers educational and funding events and a place for entrepreneurs and VCs to find one another.

Inc.Com:
http://www.inc.com/guides/finance/

Inc.Com's guide to "How-To/Starting a Business," which lists links that will help an entrepreneur get started with various aspects of their business.

The Library of Congress' Business Reference Services:
http://www.loc.gov/rr/business/assists/exim.html

The Library of Congress' Business Reference Services assists information seekers with "BRS Assists," which are short bibliographies compiled by the staff of the Business Reference Section to assist users in quickly locating basic information on topics for which the Section receives frequent questions.

MIT Enterprise Forum:
http://www.mitef.org

The MIT Enterprise Forum of Washington-Baltimore is a non-profit, volunteer organization established to support and promote high-tech entrepreneurship in the greater Washington D.C. and Baltimore area. The Forum emphasizes high-tech start-ups and maturing businesses, and issues relevant to the local area. This Forum is one of 25 chapters throughout the world. The MIT Enterprise Forum hosts an educational diagnostic salon for seed stage ventures. This event features a roundtable discussion format, where a select few seed stage startups are given seven minutes to briefly describe their seed stage venture and ask a critical question whose answer will help to further develop their business. Each question will be fielded by a panel of experienced executives/angels.

Stanford University's Center for Entrepreneurial Studies (CES):
http://www.gsb.stanford.edu/ces/resources/venture_capital.html

The Center for Entrepreneurial Studies (CES) was founded in 1996 to build understanding of the issues faced by entrepreneurial companies and individuals. To complete this mission their site offers various resources, including a long list of questions one needs to answer when looking for venture funding.

TANNEDFEET.Com:
http://www.tannedfeet.com

"The Entrepreneurs' Help Page" This Web site distributes basic information on legal, financial, and management issues that commonly affect people who are just starting up their businesses.

Telecommunications Development Fund (TDF):
http://http://www.tdfund.com/

The Telecommunications Development Fund (TDF) offers free online classes that are designed to provide entrepreneurs with the information on how to start and run a business. In addition they offer comprehensive lists of various resources in your chosen region.

The United States Small Business Administration:
http://www.sbaonline.sba.gov

The SBA maintains and strengthens the nation's economy by aiding, counseling, assisting and protecting, the interests of small businesses.

VCLocator:
http://www.vclocator.com

VC Locator is an on-line provider of screening tools for creating targeted, quality reports which detail Venture Capital Firms and Private Equity parties that invest in a specific sector, geography, stage of development, and more. They also offer downloadable and ready to edit investor fund raising documents, which have been used by successful companies to raise capital and build their businesses. These documents encompass a variety of categories, such as Term Sheets, Shareholder Agreements, Investor PowerPoint Presentations, Buy/Sell Agreements, Employment Agreements, Operating Agreements and Financial Models.

Women-21.gov:
http://www.women-21.gov

Women-21.gov is a one-stop federal resource for targeted information, registration for online programs, and networking opportunities to help women entrepreneurs navigate the ever-changing business world and do what they do best: innovate, create jobs, and make a vital contribution to the strength of America.

CIO:
http://www.cio.com

CIO offers the latest news and trends for the IT professional.

Entreworld.org:
http://www.entrepreneurship.org/Resources/Resources.aspx?TID=The+Entrepreneur

The Kauffman Foundation's online resource for entrepreneurs provides more than 1,000 articles, audio clips, tools, databases and even town-to-town small business event listings.

Inc.Com:
http://www.inc.com/guides/it/

Inc.Com's guide to "How-To/Starting a Business," which lists links that will help an entrepreneur get started with various aspects of their business.

The Information Technology Professional's Resource Center (ITPRC):
http://www.itprc.com/

The Information Technology Professional's Resource Center (ITPRC) provides links to a vast collection of networking related information available on the net. In addition they provide routes to career management information and forums for IT professionals to interact and they offer a growing catalog of on-site information and data covering the whole field.

itmWEB:
http://www.itmweb.com

The itmWEB Site, founded in 1996, is a vast independent collection of tools, news, features, and resources built for Information Technology professionals. These range from systems development and programming content, to methodology and project management papers, to high quality news sources and technology links. The site is also home to the highly regarded monthly eZine known as the itmWEB Information Technology Report.

whatis.com:
http://whatis.techtarget.com/

whatis.com is a knowledge exploration and self-education tool about Information Technology, especially about the Internet and computers. It contains over 4,500 individual encyclopedic definition/topics, a number of "Fast Reference" pages and learning tools. The topics contain about 12,000 hyperlinked cross-references between definition-topics and to other sites for further information.

Resources for Office Space and Facilities can also be found on the The Entrepreneur Center @ NVTC Incubators page.

Cityfeet.Com:
http://www.cityfeet.com/

Cityfeet an online commercial real estate network, connecting tenants and investors with property owners, agents, and other real estate professionals. Cityfeet specializes in office space, retail space, executive suites, and industrial property. Cityfeet offers free access to thousands of highly accurate office, retail, and industrial listings with photos, floorplans, and contact details, as well as business opportunities available in local markets.

Greater Washington Initiative:
http://http://www.greaterwashington.org/services/directories/incubator.htm

An online publication highlighting incubators around the region dedicated to supporting and encouraging business growth among entrepreneurial, young, international and new technology companies.

HowStuffWorks.Com:
http://money.howstuffworks.com/office-space.htm

Find articles with tips about finding office space for the new entrepreneur at HowStuffWorks.Com.

Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA):
www.nv.cc.va.us/develop/services.htm

NOVA offers room rentals, computer laboratory rentals, consulting services, audio conferencing, satellite downlinks, and teleconferencing.

Northern Virginia Economic Development Authorities:

Economic Development Authorities exist to help entrepreneurial firms in their regions with the complicated process of starting a new company, including finding affordable real estate for offices, obtaining county permits and benefiting from tax incentive etc.

Alexandria City:
http://www.alexecon.org/

Arlington County:
http://www.arlingtonva.us/departments/AED/AEDMain.aspx

The City of Fairfax:
http://www.fairfaxva.gov/Business/Business.asp

Fairfax County:
http://www.fairfaxcountyeda.org

City of Falls Church:
http://www.fallschurchva.gov/Content/BusinessServices/default.aspx?cnlid=1

The Town of Leesburg:
http://www.leesburgva.com

Loudoun County:
http://www.loudoun.gov/business/

The City of Manassas:
http://www.manassascity.org/

Prince William County:
http://www.pwcecondev.org/

OfficeFinder.Com:
http://www.officefinder.com

OfficeFinder.Com's mission is simple it is to help you find the right space at the best price. Use their online wizard to help you find the right space for you.

Offices.net:
http://www.offices.net/

Offices.net offers comprehensive listings of executive, short-term, shared and flexible office space for lease throughout the United States. With Offices.net you can find everything from Class-A buildings offering executive suites to shared workspace to fully set-up turn-key office rentals.

AllBusiness.Com:
http://www.allbusiness.com/labor-employment/4973356-1.html

Through the AllBusiness Web site, entrepreneurs, businesses, consultants, and business professionals are able to access a comprehensive set of information, tools, and services to start and grow a business, solve business problems, raise capital, enhance sales and marketing, obtain strategic advice, and leverage the business community.

American Express Small Business Network:
https://home.americanexpress.com/home/open.shtml?pers_home=sbstab

The American Express Small Business Network offers a full spectrum of tips and "how-tos" on running a small business.

Center for Business Planning and Development:
http://www.bdag.org/index.html

The Center for Business Planning and Development is located in Falls Church and is a partnership among the Northern Virginia Workforce Investment Board, Business Development Assistance Group, and Fairfax County Department of Family Services. The mission of the center is to provide resources and technical assistance to emerging entrepreneurs and existing businesses throughout Northern Virginia. The center offers a state-of-the-art conference room equipped with video projection services and a computer lab with five high-speed computers, all of which are available for use at no charge.

The center also offers extensive labor market information, business print publications, reference materials and other resources in a variety of languages. Workshops are conducted in a wide range of topics, including: How to Start a Business; Writing a Business Plan; Introduction to Entrepreneurship; and Cash Flow Analysis and Financial Planning. One-on-one counseling services to assist prospective entrepreneurs in identifying the steps that are needed to start a business are also available, and provide technical assistance in essential operational and legal procedures.

The Department of Virginia Business Assistance:
http://www.dba.state.va.us/

The Mission of the Department of Business Assistance is to promote economic growth by helping Virginia businesses prosper. The agency carries out its mission through its programs and services, which include: access to capital, small business counseling, workforce training, and pro-active business problem-solving.

HR Certificate Institute (HRCI):
http://www.hrci.org
HR Certificate Institute (HRCI), an affiliate of The Society for Human Resource Management, oversees the certification of Human Resource managers.

HR-Guide.Com:
http://www.hr-guide.com
The HR-Guide.Com is a comprehensive resource Web site for Human Resources information, which offers information on hiring, the legal implications of firing, training methods, benefits information and more.

Human Resources Law Index:
http://www.hrlawindex.com/
Put simply the Human Resource Law Index is "legal information you need in language you can understand."

Inc.Com:
http://www.inc.com/guides/hr/
Inc.Com's guide to "How-To/Starting a Business" provides links to assist an entrepreneur get started with various aspects of their business.

MoreBusiness.com:
http://www.morebusiness.com/
MoreBusiness.com offers comprehensive small business resources, educational articles and free downloadable forms for the small business owner.

Salary.Com:
http://www.salary.com

Salary.com's enterprise software helps companies manage their compensation expenditures with real-time, decision-ready data and analytical tools. Other Salary.com products include the widely syndicated Salary Wizard, which offers packages of data and analysis geared toward individuals, managers, and growing businesses.

The Small Business Administration's (SBA) Business Advisor:
http://www.business.gov/

Over 60 different federal organizations exist to assist or regulate business. With this many sources of information, finding what you want can be complicated and time-consuming. In keeping with the Administration's eGovernment vision of using Information Technology to enable better customer service, federal agencies worked together to build the U.S. Business Advisor - a one-stop electronic link to the information and services government provides for the business community. The U.S. Business Advisor was created by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and an interagency task force.

SmartBiz.Com:
http://www.smartbiz.com

SmartBiz.Com offers advice for the small business owner on management, marketing and PR, sales, finance, and Human Resources.

Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM):
http://www.shrm.org

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is the world's largest association devoted to human resource management. Representing more than 180,000 individual members, the Society's mission is to serve the needs of HR professionals by providing the most essential and comprehensive resources available.

TANNEDFEET.Com:
http://www.tannedfeet.com

"The Entrepreneurs' Help Page" This Web site distributes basic information on legal, financial, and management issues that commonly affect people who are just starting up their businesses.

The U.S. Department of Labor:
http://www.dol.gov/

Find labor standards, information and contact information for your local labor department.

Women Entrepreneurs inc. (WE inc):
http://www.we-inc.org

WE inc. is a non-profit business association that works to improve and enhance the economic climate for women entrepreneurship. By advocating for policy solutions that encourage business ownership by women, and providing information and resources to entrepreneurs at all stages of their business development, WE inc. aims to increase economic opportunity and financial security for those seeking the risky but rewarding path of entrepreneurship.

Women-21.gov:
http://www.women-21.gov

Women-21.gov is a one-stop federal resource for targeted information, registration for online programs, and networking opportunities to help women entrepreneurs navigate the ever-changing business world and do what they do best: innovate, create jobs, and make a vital contribution to the strength of America.

Workforce Management:
http://www.workforce.com/

Workforce Management is an online magazine that offers insight and articles on a wide range of topic areas including compensation, legal insight, recruiting and more.

Workindex.Com:
http://www.workindex.com

Workindex.com is a comprehensive index of workplace-related Web sites, HR tools and information. Workindex.com offers news and editorial with three sub-sites devoted to staffing, training and benefits. Tools include a salary calculator, software tester, legal clinic and events calendar. Visitors can search and post jobs, participate or read results from a monthly poll and download free business forms.

AllBusiness.Com:
http://www.allbusiness.com/4968459-1.html

Through the AllBusiness Web site, entrepreneurs, businesses, consultants, and business professionals are able to access a comprehensive set of information, tools, and services to start and grow a business, solve business problems, raise capital, enhance sales and marketing, obtain strategic advice, and leverage the business community.

American Express Small Business Network:
https://home.americanexpress.com/home/open.shtml?pers_home=sbstab

The American Express Small Business Network offers a full spectrum of tips and "how-tos" on running a small business.

BusinessTown.Com:
http://www.businesstown.com

BusinessTown.Com offers articles and tips on a wide range of business topics.

The Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship:
http://www.rhsmith.umd.edu/dingman/

The Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship at the Robert H. Smith School of Business, University of Maryland offers consulting services and networks to capital and management to entrepreneurs. Services include Business Plan Review, Market and Technology Assessment and Mentoring. They manage the Capital Access Network that connects entrepreneurs with angel investors. They also conduct events such as the Venture Capital Forum connecting various elements of the entrepreneurial community.

Entrepreneur.Com:
http://www.entrepreneur.com/marketing/index.html

At Entrepreneur.Com you can read articles and get tips on how to increase your sales and better your marketing plans.

Entreworld.org:
http://www.entrepreneurship.org/Resources/Resources.aspx?TID=Sales+%26+Marketing

The Kauffman Foundation's online resource for entrepreneurs provides more than 1,000 articles, audio clips, tools, databases and even town-to-town small business event listings.

Inc.Com:
http://www.inc.com/guides/marketing/

Inc.Com's guide to "How-To/Starting a Business," which lists links that will help an entrepreneur get started with various aspects of their business.

KnowThis.Com:
http://www.knowthis.com

KnowThis.com is a resource and reference site for those involved in marketing, market research, advertising, selling, promotion, and other marketing-related areas. The chief goal of KnowThis.com is to offer a web resource that is committed to providing unbiased, objective information that will offer valuable tools for business professionals, academics and students of marketing and related fields.

MarketingProfs.Com:
http://www.marketingprofs.com

Founded in June 2000, MarketingProfs.com is an online publishing company that specializes in providing both strategic and tactical post-MBA marketing know-how to Internet and offline marketing professionals in medium and large corporations, through a combination of provocative articles and commentary. Drawing on both the cutting edge marketing know-how of a broad array of analysts, marketing professionals, and professors who create marketing know-how and can bridge the gap between cutting-edge theory and business practice, they cut through the marketing hype and puffery that has become so prevalent in the Internet age.

MarketingTerms.Com:
http://www.marketingterms.com/

MarketingTerms.Com is an online dictionary of need to know terms for marketing and advertising success.

MoreBusiness.com:
http://www.morebusiness.com/

MoreBusiness.com offers comprehensive small business resources, educational articles and free downloadable forms for the small business owner.

PR Newswire:
http://www.prnewswire.com

PR Newswire gives advice on how to write a note worthy press release and can help you distribute your press release all over the globe.

Sales & Marketing Management:
http://www.salesandmarketing.com/

Sales & Marketing Management is a leading authority for executives in the sales and marketing field. In every issue of the magazine, and on their Web site, readers have easy access to the most relevant trends, strategies, exclusive research, expert voices, and cutting-edge case studies designed to help them sell more, manage better, and market smarter.

SmartBiz.Com:
http://www.smartbiz.com

SmartBiz.Com offers advice for the small business owner on management, marketing and PR, sales, finance, and Human Resources.

TANNEDFEET.Com:
http://www.tannedfeet.com

"The Entrepreneurs' Help Page" This Web site distributes basic information on legal, financial, and management issues that commonly affect people who are just starting up their businesses.

Web Marketing Today:
http://www.wilsonweb.com/

Web Marketing Today offers key information about doing business on the Net through hundreds of articles, thousands of links to resources on eCommerce and Web marketing.

allPM.Com-The Project Management Homepage:
http://www.allpm.com/

allPM.Com offers the latest information and tips for Project Management.

The Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship:
http://www.rhsmith.umd.edu/dingman/

The Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship at the Robert H. Smith School of Business, University of Maryland offers consulting services and networks to capital and management to entrepreneurs. Services include Business Plan Review, Market and Technology Assessment and Mentoring. They manage the Capital Access Network that connects entrepreneurs with angel investors. They also conduct events such as the Venture Capital Forum connecting various elements of the entrepreneurial community.

Entreworld.org:
http://www.entrepreneurship.org/Resources/Resources.aspx?TID=Operations

The Kauffman Foundation's online resource for entrepreneurs provides more than 1,000 articles, audio clips, tools, databases and even town-to-town small business event listings.

The Mason Enterprise Center of George Mason University:
http://www.masonenterprisecenter.org/

The Mason Enterprise Center offers a wide range of business assistance for growing companies in addition to aspiring entrepreneurs.

ProjectManagement.Com:
http://www.projectmanagement.com

Projectmanagement.com is a site offering project managers access to a broad variety of resources to help them do their jobs more effectively. Part of the gantthead network of project management resources, projectmanagement.com is a joint venture between gantthead.com and Technology Associates International.

The Small Business Administration's (SBA) Business Advisor:
http://www.business.gov/

Over 60 different federal organizations exist to assist or regulate business. With this many sources of information, finding what you want can be complicated and time-consuming. In keeping with the Administration's eGovernment vision of using Information Technology to enable better customer service, federal agencies worked together to build the U.S. Business Advisor - a one-stop electronic link to the information and services government provides for the business community. The U.S. Business Advisor was created by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and an interagency task force.

Virginia's Center for Innovative Technology (CIT):
http://www.cit.org/

CIT's nationally recognized regional operations outreach program serves Virginia's technology businesses with 500 or fewer employees. CIT's regional teams provide a full range of confidential, specialized services for technology application, process and product development, and commercialization.

Women-21.gov:
http://www.women-21.gov

Women-21.gov is a one-stop federal resource for targeted information, registration for online programs, and networking opportunities to help women entrepreneurs navigate the ever-changing business world and do what they do best: innovate, create jobs, and make a vital contribution to the strength of America.

About.Com-Management:
http://management.about.com/

About.Com's Management section offers tips and articles on how to be the best manager.

ArticleInsider.Com:
http://www.articleinsider.com/

ArticleInsider is a global community forum where real-life specialists share their knowledge about a wide variety of popular topics. Others can compare what multiple insiders are saying about a given subject.

Business Management Skill:
http://www.business-management-skills.com/

Business Management Skills offers training in key business management skills including: negotiating, time management, presentations and public speaking, job searching, interviews, business meetings, project management and business analysis.

Entrepreneur.Com:
http://www.entrepreneur.com

Entrepreneur.Com offers articles and tips on all areas of small business.

Entreworld.org:
http://www.entrepreneurship.org/Resources/Resources.aspx?TID=The+Entrepreneur

The Kauffman Foundation's online resource for entrepreneurs provides more than 1,000 articles, audio clips, tools, databases and even town-to-town small business event listings.

Free Management Library:
http://www.managementhelp.org/

The Free Management Library is a complete, highly integrated library of 675 topics for non-profits and for-profits

Inc.Com:
http://www.inc.com/guides/hr/

Inc.Com's guide to "How-To/Starting a Business," which lists links that will help an entrepreneur get started with various aspects of their business.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce-Small Business:
http://www.uschamber.com/sb

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce offers tips, advice and resources for small businesses.

The United States Small Business Administration:
http://www.sbaonline.sba.gov

The SBA maintains and strengthens the nation's economy by aiding, counseling, assisting and protecting, the interests of small businesses.

American Express Small Business Network:
http://home3.americanexpress.com/smallbusiness/Landing/
ExportImportcenter.asp?Entry1=0&Entry2=440

The American Express Small Business Network offers a full spectrum of tips and "how-tos" on running a small business.

Export911:
http://www.export911.com

EXPORT911TM is a business and educational Web site focusing on international business. The site provides information on export-import marketing, management, letters of credit, export cargo insurance, shipping, logistics, manufacturing, purchasing, bar codes, and more.

Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank):
http://www.exim.gov/

The Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank) is the official export credit agency of the United States. Ex-Im Bank's mission is to assist in financing the export of U.S. goods and services to international markets. Ex-Im Bank does not compete with private sector lenders but provides export financing products that fill gaps in trade financing. They assume credit and country risks that the private sector is unable or unwilling to accept. They also help to level the playing field for U.S. exporters by matching the financing that other governments provide to their exporters. Ex-Im Bank provides working capital guarantees (pre-export financing); export credit insurance (post-export financing); and loan guarantees and direct loans (buyer financing). No transaction is too large or too small. On average, 85% of transactions directly benefit U.S. small businesses.

The Library of Congress' Business Reference Services:
http://www.loc.gov/rr/business/assists/exim.html

The Library of Congress' Business Reference Services assists information seekers with "BRS Assists," which are short bibliographies compiled by the staff of the Business Reference Section to assist users in quickly locating basic information on topics for which the Section receives frequent questions.

The Division of International Trade:
http://www.exportvirginia.org/

This is part of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), a state authority created to promote economic expansion within the Commonwealth of Virginia. They help Virginia companies export their products and services overseas. The Division of International Trade also helps both new exporters and experienced exporters enter new markets. They offer many services and programs such as Export Counseling Services, Trade missions, Global Network, Valet Program and Accessing International Markets (AIM) Program.

The Mason Enterprise Center of George Mason University:
http://www.masonenterprisecenter.org/

The Mason Enterprise Center offers a wide range of business assistance for growing companies in addition to aspiring entrepreneurs.

The Small Business Administration's (SBA) Business Advisor:
http://www.business.gov/

Over 60 different federal organizations exist to assist or regulate business. With this many sources of information, finding what you want can be complicated and time-consuming. In keeping with the Administration's eGovernment vision of using Information Technology to enable better customer service, federal agencies worked together to build the U.S. Business Advisor - a one-stop electronic link to the information and services government provides for the business community. The U.S. Business Advisor was created by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and an interagency task force.

TANNEDFEET.Com:
http://www.tannedfeet.com

"The Entrepreneurs' Help Page" This Web site distributes basic information on legal, financial, and management issues that commonly affect people who are just starting up their businesses.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce-Small Business:
http://www.uschamber.com/sb

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce offers tips, advice and resources for small businesses.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection:
http://www.customs.gov

Since 9/11 it has become increasingly important to protect the U.S. borders without inhibiting trade. The Customs and Border Protection site will keep you updated on the latest rules and regulations that will affect trade at our borders.

The U.S. Department of Commerce Trade Information Center:
http://web.ita.doc.gov/ticwebsite/tic.nsf/

The U.S. Department of Commerce Trade Information Center (TIC) is a comprehensive resource for information on all U.S. Federal Government export assistance programs.

The U.S. Department of Labor-Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
http://www.bls.gov/

The Bureau of Labor Statistics produces international data in two main areas-Import and Export Prices and Foreign Labor Statistics. The International Price Program measures changes in the prices of imported and exported goods and some services traded between the United States and the rest of the world. And the Foreign Labor Statistics program publishes comparative data on labor, compensation, productivity, consumer prices, and union membership in other countries.

The United States International Trade Commission:
http://www.customs.gov

The USITC Interactive Tariff and Trade DataWeb provides international trade statistics and U.S. tariff data to the public full-time and free of charge. U.S. import statistics, U.S. export statistics, U.S. tariffs, U.S. future tariffs and U.S. tariff preference information are available on a self-service, interactive basis. The USITC DataWeb responds to user-defined queries integrating international trade statistics with complex tariff and customs treatment, and allows both expert and non-expert users to create and save customized country and product lists for future re-use from anywhere in the world. International trade data are available for years 1989- present on a monthly, quarterly, annual, or year-to-date basis and can be retrieved in a number of classification systems, including the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Standard International Trade Classification (SITC), or the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). Pre-defined reports on international trade statistics are also available by geographic region and partner country. Current U.S. tariffs, which are maintained and published by the USITC as a statutory responsibility, can be accessed via the USITC DataWeb, and retrieved with relevant international trade data.

Women Entrepreneurs inc. (WE inc):
http://www.we-inc.org

WE inc. is a non-profit business association that works to improve and enhance the economic climate for women entrepreneurship. By advocating for policy solutions that encourage business ownership by women, and providing information and resources to entrepreneurs at all stages of their business development, WE inc. aims to increase economic opportunity and financial security for those seeking the risky but rewarding path of entrepreneurship.

Women-21.gov:
http://www.women-21.gov

Women-21.gov is a one-stop federal resource for targeted information, registration for online programs, and networking opportunities to help women entrepreneurs navigate the ever-changing business world and do what they do best: innovate, create jobs, and make a vital contribution to the strength of America.

AllBusiness.Com:
http://www.allbusiness.com/

Through the AllBusiness Web site, entrepreneurs, businesses, consultants, and business professionals are able to access a comprehensive set of information, tools, and services to start and grow a business, solve business problems, raise capital, enhance sales and marketing, obtain strategic advice, and leverage the business community.

American Capital:
http://www.americancapital.com

American Capital is an equity partner in management and employee buyouts; provides mezzanine and senior debt financing for buyouts led by private equity firms; and provides capital directly to private and small public companies. Use their Web site's glossary to learn key terms about IPOs and selling one's company.

CCH Business Owner's Toolkit:
http://www.toolkit.cch.com/

CCH Business Owner's Toolkit will educate you on small business in addition to providing a comprehensive list of business tools-including links to all major government and tax forms a small business owner would need.

Entrepreneur.Com:
http://www.entrepreneur.com

Entrepreneur.Com offers tips and articles on IPOs, DPOs and Reverse Mergers.

Inc.Com:
http://www.inc.com

Inc.Com offers tips and articles on the subject of "Going Public"

NOLO: Law For All:
http://www.nolo.com/lawcenter/index.cfm

NOLO offers Small Business legal information for starting a business, choosing a business structure, writing a business plan and more.

American Institute of Philanthropy (AIP):
http://www.charitywatch.org/

The American Institute of Philanthropy (AIP) is a nationally prominent charity watchdog service whose purpose is to help donors make informed giving decisions. This Web site will provide you with information about the charities they rate, and the method of grading charities.

Calvert Ventures:
http://www.calvertventures.com

Calvert Ventures makes direct investments in companies run by visionary entrepreneurs who have identified profitable ways of addressing society's needs.

CharityChannel:
http://www.charitychannel.com/

The CharityChannel is a place where non-profit professionals can connect, learn from each other, share information and work together to advance the cause of philanthropy. The CharityChannel community is comprised of non-profit sector professionals from around the world who volunteer their time, advice, information, tips and articles for the benefit of the community.

The Chronicle of Philanthropy:
http://philanthropy.com

The Chronicle of Philanthropy is the leading newspaper for non-profits. It is a prime news source, in print and online, for charity leaders, fund raisers, grant makers, and other people involved in the philanthropic enterprise.

The Foundation Center:
http://fdncenter.org

Founded in 1956, the Foundation Center is the nation's leading authority on philanthropy and is dedicated to serving grantseekers, grantmakers, researchers, policymakers, the media, and the general public. They do this by collecting, organizing, and communicating information on U.S. philanthropy; conducting and facilitating research on trends in the field; providing education and training on the grantseeking process; and ensuring public access to information and services through their Web site, print and electronic publications, and five library/learning centers.

Free Management Library:
http://www.managementhelp.org/

The Free Management Library is a complete, highly integrated library of 675 topics for non-profits and for-profits

Nonprofit Good Practice Guide:
http://www.nonprofitbasics.org

The Nonprofit Good Practice Guide is a one-stop shop for widely-accepted and innovative non-profit practices offering Preferred Practices and Pitfalls, Glossaries, Resources, Trends and Web site Profiles within ten topic areas.

onPhilanthropy.Com:
http://www.onphilanthropy.com

onPhilanthropy.com is a global resource for non-profit and philanthropy professionals. It is free of charge and features several industry-leading e-mail newsletters. onPhilanthropy.com is published by Changing Our World, Inc. a U.S. fundraising and philanthropic services company.

Philanthropy World Magazine:
http://www.philanthropyintexas.com

Philanthropy World Magazine celebrates the philanthropic spirit in the United States and around the globe. Every other month, they recognize extraordinary people who are dedicated to charitable causes. In addition, each issue focuses on an area of philanthropic giving as well as the key non-profit agencies and contributors. They also publish information that helps readers keep up-to-date on the latest important philanthropic happenings around the country and the world.

PNNOnline:
http://pnnonline.org

PNNOnline delivers news, information, and resources to all segments of the non-profit world in order to help them better achieve their goals.

Venture Philanthropy Partners:
http://www.venturephilanthropypartners.org/

Venture Philanthropy Partners (VPP), a philanthropic investment organization, is working to improve the lives of children from low-income communities by pursuing two interrelated goals. First, they help strengthen non-profit organizations, offering not just major funding but also significant management expertise and other non-financial resources that are too rarely available to non-profits. Second, they are joining with others in the field to inspire philanthropists, corporate and non-profit leaders, and public policymakers to help increase the effectiveness and the flow of capital, talent, and other resources to non-profit organizations meeting the core needs of children.

Entrepreneur SOLUTIONS:
http://http://70.168.111.39/solutions/index.htm

Entrepreneur SOLUTIONS is designed to give entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to connect with seasoned veterans of the Greater Washington technology sector -- from a wide array of fields -- and is tailored to provide the support that you need at every phase of your early-stage business. Entrepreneur SOLUTIONS offers three separate types of advising to complement your company's needs and requirements -- Mentoring, Coaching and Advisory Sessions.

Fairfax Innovation Center
http://www.fairfaxinnovationcenter.org/

Fairfax Innovation Center is a business accelerator program designed to help start-up businesses in Fairfax County, VA grow and achieve maximum success.

The Center is home to Mason's International Business Accelerator -- which is one of only three such facilities in the country. They also offer access to business advisors, networking opportunities and all of the quality educational programs offered at the Mason Enterprise Center.

The Greater Washington Board of Trade:
http://www.bot.org

The Greater Washington Board of Trade developed an initiative designed to promote the development of small businesses and encourage stronger business linkages with Board of Trade member firms. The Small Business Partnership, or SBP, provides time-based training and business development opportunities for small companies. The SBP offers two distinct components: The Academy and The Alliance. The Academy serves small companies that have been in operation between one and five years. The Academy has a two prong strategy - class room training and team exchange.The Alliance program targets more mature companies which have been in business for at least five years and have annual sales of $500,000 - $1 million. The Alliance strategy teams each small company with at least one larger Board of Trade company, focusing on sales.

MIT Enterprise Forum:
http://www.mitef.org

The MIT Enterprise Forum of Washington-Baltimore is a non-profit, volunteer organization established to support and promote high-tech entrepreneurship in the greater Washington D.C. and Baltimore area. The Forum emphasizes high-tech start-ups and maturing businesses, and issues relevant to the local area. This Forum is one of 25 chapters throughout the world. The MIT Enterprise Forum's EnterpriseLab is aimed at ongoing companies (revenues greater than $500,000) and is 90-minute session focused around a specific challenge the company has faced. The challenge may be about market strategy, distribution channels, financing, building the management team, or any other challenge of interest to other entrepreneurs.

Robert H. Smith School of Business-U. Md. MBA Consulting Program:
http://www.rhsmith.umd.edu/

As part of the course work, MBA 2nd year students will act as consultants for a particular assigned project for your company.

SCORE:
http://www.score.org

SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business" is a non-profit association that provides entrepreneurs with free, confidential face-to-face and email business counseling. Counseling and workshops are offered at 389 chapter offices nationwide by volunteers who are experienced entrepreneurs or corporate managers/executives.

Small Business Development Centers (SBDC):
For Virginia SBDCs: http://www.sba.gov/va/vasbdc.html

For Washington DC and Maryland SBDCs: http://www.sba.gov/dc/dcsbdc.html

Small Business Development Centers provide business assistance, counseling and training to growing companies and aspiring entrepreneurs. One-on-one counseling and business courses are available in the areas of start-up, sources of capital, accounting, management, marketing and business planning.