Home Community How Do I ... ? Find loans or grants Start a home-based business Register a business name Search or register a corporation Obtain a business license Get info on employment laws Bid on government contracts Get more answers Join Us on ... Twitter Facebook LinkedIn YouTube | This Week's Highlight | SBA Small Business Loans Explained–Availability, Eligibility and the Application Process SBA Small Business Loans Explained–Availability, Eligibility and the Application Process With 2009 behind us, it's pleasing to see some indicators that the government-backed small business loan market may be trending in the right direction. If you have struggled to get financing in the past, or are thinking of venturing into small business loan territory for the first time, here are some pointers. Read more... Share Your Energy Saving Tips Businesses that conserve energy not only help the environment, but also save money. This month's Idea Exchange asks community members to share your energy saving tips to help other businesses go green. Read more... Recent Articles in the Community Small Business Matters The State of the Union for Small Business – Pointers for Renewing the Entrepreneurial Imperative President Obama’s first State of the Union address stressed the importance of collective responsibility - a message that was not lost on the small business community. Calling for a renewed entrepreneurial imperative, many small business experts stress the importance of taking ownership of your business future now. Here is a snapshot of some of the existing government programs, resources and tools that you can put to work for your business today! Read more... Business Law Advisor Expanding your Overseas Business in the USA Most foreign-owned businesses expand their operations into the U.S. by establishing a branch office or an online presence. Both processes are very similar to starting a new business as any American citizen would, except for a few extra steps during registration and some special tax regulations. Learn more about visa laws, import regulations, and other government services for foreign businesses expanding operations into the U.S. Read more... The Industry Word 5 Things to Talk to Your Accountant About It’s probably a good idea for most business owners to focus on the core of their business, such as selling fishing lures or designing websites, and use experts to help them in financial matters. According to the IRS, more than 80% of small businesses use accountants to prepare their returns, something you may be acutely aware of during tax season. But tax return preparation isn’t the only reason to use an accountant. Here are five areas to discuss with your accountant. Read more... First Thing to Do Is Lay the Foundation Have you ever thought about the framework of the economy and how it effects the way you do business? Most of us haven't because we're too busy actually doing business to worry about that. But it's worth thinking about, especially if you're a microbusiness. Read more... In The Loop “What’s Everyone Talking About?” Update Health care, transportation services, and financial benefits for going green are this month's hot topics on the Business.gov Community. Take a look inside the Community's most-discussed threads. Read more... | For More Topics, Visit the Discussion Boards: | |