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Small Business Websites
Small Business Guide to Doing Business in Alabama (http://www.asbdc.org/books.htm)
Also called "Alabama's Answers," this document gives basic information to help you start your small business in Alabama. It was compiled by the Alabama Small Business Development Consortium (see above). The document is available in Word or Acrobat format.
The One Stop Center (http://www.YourOneStopCenter.com)
The One Stop Center was created by the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce to provide links and information on the business licenses, permits and taxes required by local, state and federal governments. Another useful section is The Startup Checklist, which covers the steps required to move from having a potential product or service to starting an actual business.
Business.gov (http://www.business.gov/)
This site is managed by the Small Business Administration, but represents information for small businesses from many federal government agencies. It offers numerous guides and tools for all phases of a small business' growth.
Small Business Administration's Free Online Courses (http://www.sba.gov/services/training/onlinecourses/index.html)
The Small Business Administration's Web site contains extensive resources to support every phase of small business activity. In this section you will find free online training courses.
National Federation of Independent Business (http://www.nfib.com)
Click on the "Tools and Tips" tab to find extensive information on owning and operating a small business. The NFIB is the "largest advocacy organization representing small and independent businesses in Washington, D.C. and all 50 state capitals."
SCORE: Counselors to America's Small Business (http://www.score.org)
The SCORE Association (Service Corps of Retired Executives) Web site provides numerous resources for small businesses at their Web site. In addition, small business owners are invited to request "email counselling" by submitting a question at the SCORE Web site. A SCORE volunteer will respond with suggestions and advice. The service is free and confidential.
AllBusiness (http://www.allbusiness.com)
This site offers extensive resources to support small businesses, with advice on issues like setting up vacation and sick leave policies or the best length for your business plan.