Resources for Starting or Growing a Business in Central Iowa For many entrepreneurs, the road to small business ownership starts with an idea: a passion for executing what they do best, an innovative new product, or a hobby turned into more than simply a hobby. This spark turns into a flame, and the idea for starting a business becomes a reality. For many, the “starting a business” component creates stumbling blocks for many great ideas. The specifics of business and marketing plans, licensing and locating funding aren’t the most fun elements of becoming an entrepreneur! Thankfully, several central Iowa resources are available to entrepreneurs and small business owners to assist with the details of starting a small business, from business plans and sales strategies to accessing capital. Online Resources For business owners wanting to secure the details themselves and self-navigate through information about starting a business, IASourceLink.com is a great starting resource. IASourceLink, a collaboration between Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) and the University of Northern Iowa Center for Business Growth and Innovation, connects Iowa entrepreneurs to a network of 360+ nonprofit resource organizations that provide a wide range of business-related services, including marketing, financial planning, sales, loans and technical assistance product development. In addition to the comprehensive network of resource entrepreneurs can access 24/7 via the Resource Navigator, IASourceLink provides some direct services to Iowa small business owners. Through the popular Business Concierge service, the website provides Iowa-based companies with no-charge market research assistance and helpful referrals and the free business tax webinar series with the Iowa Department of Revenue can help Iowa entrepreneurs address their many business tax questions. Additionally, IASourceLink’s Business License Information Center, which assists start-ups and small businesses with identifying regulatory requirements, provides comprehensive information on the licenses, permits and occupational requirements needed to operate a business legally in the state of Iowa. The Greater Des Moines Partnership is another great central Iowa resource helping address the many questions related to starting a business. Through its recently launched initiative, “The Hub”, business owners and entrepreneurs can access online tools and resources on topics like how to start a business, finance, banking and capital, marketing, hiring and events for small businesses owners to attend. 2019 Small Business Summit For those wanting a full-day intensive and deep-dive into various topics related to small business ownership, plan to attend the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Small Business Summit November 8 at the FFA Enrichment Center at Des Moines Area Community College in Ankeny. The purpose is to inform, educate and inspire business owners in greater Des Moines. The Summit hosts keynote speakers, workshops and breakout sessions on a variety of timely topics that affect business owners and managers. Attendees will also have time to network and establish strategic partnerships. Direct Assistance Looking for face-to-face assistance? Plan to meet with an advisor from your local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) or a Des Moines SCORE mentor.
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