Whether you are preparing to start a new small business or are working to grow your current venture, there are a number of places you can go for more information to help you craft unique solutions for your small business.

What is in a name?
Are you just getting started and looking to incorporate a new business? One of the first steps is choosing the right name. The Illinois Secretary of State website will be able to tell you if your prospective name is available.

Looking to start a small business and need some guidance?
The AllBusiness.com website not only provides concise information about starting a business but also has materials you can purchase/download that will help you with the planning process.

The website provides a selection of generic forms to help get you started with formalizing various aspects of your business.

Also available is information on creating a business plan. This is a must, not only for getting your thoughts together and organizing your small business, but for virtually any type of financing you will apply for. A solid well put together business plan can positively impact the credit decision.

Some basic sales and marketing strategies and tactics are also available.

The Federal Small Business Administration (SBA)
This website provides a large amount of free information and listings on regulations necessary when beginning a small business. Information about the SBA lending solutions is also available.

Small Business Groups
There are a couple of groups for small business owners to join that can help with legal and regulatory issues, the American Small Business Association (ASBA) and the National Small Business Association (NSBA).