Open A
New Business
We’re here to help with resources for aspiring entrepreneurs and existing business owners. This guide will walk you through resources available to help you plan, operate, and grow a business in Worcester County while working smart and living happy.
Resources to get you started...
TEDCO– Early stage technology and life science company resources
MARBIDCO– Maryland Agricultural & Resource Based Industry Development Corporation
SCORE- Mid-Shore is your local resource for starting a new business, business advice, help with your business plan, business education, and more
Maryland Entrepreneur Hub– From funding to talent sources and everything in between, explore over 2,000 resources to build your business in Maryland
SBDC- Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers FREE individualized consulting, from start up to established businesses
MD Department Of Commerce- The state’s primary economic development agency, we stimulate private investment and create jobs by attracting new businesses, encouraging the expansion and retention of existing companies, and providing workforce training and financial assistance to Maryland companies. Commerce also promotes the state’s many commercial advantages and its outstanding quality of life to spur economic development, international investment, trade and tourism
Maryland Women’s Business Center- Encouraging women to start, sustain and grow their business
Maryland Capital Enterprises- Micro Loans for business owners in Maryland
Worcester County Development Review & Licensing- The Department is responsible for implementing and enforcing a wide variety of regulations and programs, primarily pertaining to land use activities. These include permits, building construction, site plans and subdivisions. Geographic Information Services (GIS), long range planning and pre-and post-disaster planning are also a function of the Department. Various licenses are also administered and issued by the Department, including liquor licenses and renewals, roadside stand licenses and vending licenses
Follow this check list for success:
Planning Your Business
Business Development
- Create your business planning binder
- Write your mission statement
- Choose a name for your business
- Estimate start-up costs
- Research your target market
- Research the competition
- Choose what products to sell
- Choose your legal structure
- Register your business name
- Apply for necessary permits/licenses
- Apply for EIN # / Tax Exempt ID
- Open a business checking account
- Create a stripe/PayPal account
- Register domain for your website
- Create social media accounts
- Set up business email
- Set up accounting software
- Create a system to manage orders
Brand Development
Product Development
- Design logo/hire graphic designer
- Create and order business cards
- Launch website/hire web designer
- Post to social media channels
- Organize work area/office space
- Order necessary supplies
- Make sample products
- Photograph products
- Write detailed product descriptions
- Create packaging for your product
- Determine pricing & profit margin
Marketing
- Create marketing plan
- Notify friends/family etc.
- Join networking groups
- Create and build email mailing list
- Determine blog posting schedule
