How to Start a Business in Pennsylvania

Start a small business in Pennsylvania.

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania holds many opportunities for small business owners. In fact, small businesses employ about half of Pennsylvania's workforce. Industries such as agriculture, sports, food, beverage, music and wineries tend to thrive in Pennsylvania. Conduct a personal assessment to determine the type of business you might like to start in Pennsylvania. Begin implementing your ideas by using some of the small business resources available in the state.

Instructions

1. Decide what type of business you want to start that would work well in Pennsylvania. Find a business that meets your passion to help it grow well in the state. Many state programs assist small business owners in Pennsylvania, and they may provide tools specific to your choice of business.

2. Choose a business name suitable for your business in its location in Pennsylvania. Select a name that your customers can easily relate to and remember.

3. Complete the Online Business Registration Interview (OBRI) provided by the State of Pennsylvania. Let it guide you through the business registration process and filing fees. Provide appropriate information about taxes.

4. Make a business plan that will help navigate you towards your goals in the state of Pennsylvania. A plan that forecasts your sales and marketing strategies, as well as your estimated cash flow needs can position your business for success.

5. Pennsylvania has resources that could provide financing for you business. Determine your needs for financial capital in the first stages. Most businesses fail due to under-capitalization.

6. Find the ideal location for your enterprise in Pennsylvania. Your product sales could be directly impacted based on the location of your business and proximity of other related businesses. Determine if your location will allow you to compete with other merchants.

7. Advertise your business. Sales from products and services add revenue to your business. Promote the benefits of buying your products using direct mail, radio and newspaper advertising in the region of Pennsylvania where you have set up shop.

Tips & Warnings

• Maintain a relationship with an accountant and tax adviser.

References

• Pennsylvania Open For Business: Online Business Registration Format Suggestion
• Pennsylvania State of Innovation: Funding And Program Finder
• Pennsylvania State of Innovation: Before You Begin