Learn how to start and fund a small business in the U.S. using official SBA and USAGov guidance: planning steps, loans, and free local support.
How to Start a Business
If you’re launching a new business, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is one of the best official starting points. The SBA offers a structured 10-step guide to help you:
- Plan your business and validate your idea
- Choose your business structure
- Register your business and handle key paperwork
- Understand licenses, permits, and compliance
- Prepare for launch and operations
As your business grows, it becomes even more important to understand:
- Taxes and reporting requirements
- Hiring and managing employees
- Legal responsibilities and business protections
The SBA’s Business Guide can help you manage day-to-day operations and plan for long-term success.
Funding Your Small Business
Most businesses need money to start, expand, or recover after unexpected events. One important point to know upfront:
There are no federal grants for starting a business.
That said, small business owners can still raise capital through common funding paths, including:
- Personal funds and savings
- Investors and partners
- Loans and business financing
The SBA also supports certain groups through specialized programs and funding pathways, including:
- Women-owned businesses
- Minority-owned businesses
- Native American-owned businesses
- Veteran-owned businesses
- Military spouse-owned businesses
Extra Support for Rural Businesses
If you own a rural business, there are additional resources to help you start, expand, or maintain operations, including:
- SBA financing options for rural businesses
- Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans for farmers and ranchers
Find Free Local Business Support
Funding matters—but guidance can be just as valuable. The SBA provides free or low-cost counseling and training, helping small business owners:
- Build new skills through training programs
- Connect with mentors and other business owners
- Apply for disaster loans in declared disaster areas
- Learn about government contracting opportunities
How to Contact the SBA
- Call the SBA Answer Desk: 1-800-827-5722
- Email: answerdesk@sba.gov
- Search the SBA’s network of partners for free/low-cost help near you
Official Government Help (USAGov)
This information is also available through USAGov, the official guide to U.S. government information and services.
If you have a government-related question and want help finding the right resource, you can contact the USAGov Contact Center at:
1-844-USAGOV1 (1-844-872-4681)
Last updated: November 17, 2025
FAQ
Q1: Does the U.S. government offer grants to start a business?
No. There are no federal grants for starting a business, but you can explore financing through loans, investors, and other funding options.
Q2: What is the best official resource to start a business?
The Small Business Administration (SBA) provides a 10-step guide and practical tools to plan, launch, and manage a business.
Q3: Where can I find free local business counseling?
The SBA offers free or low-cost counseling and training, and you can search the SBA’s partner network for help in your area.
Q4: Are there special funding programs for certain business owners?
Yes. The SBA has programs that support groups such as women-owned, minority-owned, Native American-owned, veteran-owned, and military spouse-owned businesses.
Q5: What support is available for rural businesses?
Rural businesses may qualify for SBA financing options, and farmers/ranchers can look into Farm Service Agency loans.