The Heartland small business guide

Use this comprehensive guide to take your business ideas from conception to launch. We’ve packed it full of everything an entrepreneur needs to know to get from dreamer to small business owner.

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Get the knowledge you need to make your small business a success

Business planning

Have an idea? Explore different types of businesses that align with your passion and skills, develop a business model and get a business plan started.

Business structure

S Corp, C Corporation, “doing business as” (DBA) sole proprietorship or Limited Liability Company? Learn the pros and cons of each small business structure.

Business taxes

Learn about how to get an employer identification number with the IRS, estimated quarterly payment basics and federal tax rules for small businesses that you need to know.

Business insurance

Protecting your business should be a priority, but where do you start? Learn the basics of general liability insurance, errors and omissions, and more.

Business credit

Business credit can be just as confusing as personal credit. You can get ahead by learning how to establish, build, check and maintain your business credit.

HR and talent

Human resource needs aren’t just for big businesses. Small businesses need guidance on handling HR issues, performance evaluations, hiring and recruiting.

Marketing

Whether you’re launching an ecommerce company, service business or even a home-based business, driving new customers is critical. Learn the basics of marketing for a successful business.

Payments and payroll

Learn how to open a business checking account or credit card, process customer payments with a merchant account, and set up payroll for you and your employees.

Business building basics

Create and launch your business with the free Start-Up Path course