So, you want to start a business. It is the American Dream, after all. Do it right from the start using our help.  Starting a business is a challenging and rewarding undertaking. There are several steps that you must take before starting your business to ensure its success.  Click here to get started! It is the best way to find out what you need to do to officially start your business  It is called the "SMART START ASSESSMENT".

This assessment can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, so that we can give you relevant and detailed guidance, suggestions, and resources. It only takes a few minutes.

Another option If you are just starting out, is our "6 Steps for Starting a Small Business".

It will give you an overview of all the things you need to do. Once you have completed some initial steps, you can then go to the Maryland Small Business Development Website (click here) and take the Smart Start Assessment. This will help you see where you still may need help. Once your score is over 200, you may request help from a SBDC Counselor. If you are stuck and cannot get to 200, call or contact us through this site and we can get you the help you need.

If your score on the assessment is over 200 you are well on your way to opening your business. If you need help in any area regarding your business, you can contact us to request additional help, or go to our RESOURCE page to finish up any area you need help with.

If your score shows you have a lot of work to do,  check out our FREE virtual classroom where you can take a class on any area you need help with. Then you can retake the SMART START ASSESSMENTagain until you get your score of 200.