PORTLAND
Small Business Checklist |
THE BASICS
Create a business plan
A comprehensive business plan is vital to a successful Portland business. Create a plan on your own or refer to local business advisory companies like the Portland Business Alliance with questions and guidance.
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Choose your business name
This is an important early step: your business name and branding should be consistent throughout your advertising efforts and business growth.
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FUNDING
Determine your financing
You can supplement your own investment with government or small business loans, investment capital and bank credit to get started. The Portland SBA has a variety of funding options available to new Portland businesses.
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LEGALITIES
Get an Employer Identification Number
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is required if you're going to incorporate your business in Portland or start a bank account and credit line for your business. You will need to fill out EIN forms for Oregon to get your EIN.
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Define your business structure in Portland
Choose your ownership form from several options: sole propietorship, partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), corporation, S corporation, nonprofit, or cooperative.
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BANKING
Start a business bank account in Portland
Open a business bank account and credit line that's independent of your pesronal banking for your company expenditures. Local banks like Rivermark Credit Union can help you get started.
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ACCOUNTING & TAXES
Choose an accounting method
You can hire a Portland accountant or use software to manage invoicing, salaries and business accounting tasks on your own.
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Register for state and local taxes
Register with Oregon's Department of Revenue to attain a tax ID number and employee insurance to cover your business.
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LICENSE & INSURANCE
Establish your Portland location
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Obtain licenses, permits and insurance |
If you're a home-based business, you need to verify zoning requirements in Portland for your business. If you're leasing office space, find an experience commercial realtor like North Rim Partners.
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Depending on your industry and business location, you might need specific business licenses and zoning permits. Both your business and any commerical real estate you purchase will also need insurance coverage. Nick Watson Insurance in Portland can provide a quote for new business insurance plans.
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MARKETING
Promote your business with a great website
Your marketing begins with a website for your business. With Weebly, you can create a website on your own in just a few steps. Generate new business, build your brand and sell your products or services directly from your new site. Best of all, you can start it for free!
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