Hi. This is my first blog post ever. Simple Kat Inc is a new web design and art business that specializes in websites for creative people and organizations. Photography and various other art forms are and or will be part of this business. This blog will discuss what I have learned from starting a business, various website topics, and various art topics. My first topic covers things that I have learned from starting a new business. Enjoy.


Starting a business is a journey. There are many gray areas in determining what is needed to start and maintain a business. During the journey there are many places to find information but few give you clear steps to follow. I am continuing to learn every day about business and the business of web design. Here are some things to know and do to start a business.


1. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC). They provide counseling and help in starting and maintaining a business. Counseling is free. Some classes cost a nominal fee, some are free. There are SBDC offices associated with many colleges. To find out more and find one near you go to the main website, http://www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/sbdc/index.html.


2. SCORE also provides mentoring. The SCORE website, http://www.score.org/index.html, provides a lot of online classes, as well as access to mentors around the country with similar business experience.


3. Create a business plan. The counselors at the SBDC can help you with this. Also the Small Business Administration (SBA) website, http://www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/sbdc/index.html, has instructions and examples on creating a business plan. It is a very useful tool. I refer back to mine regularly to help keep me on track.


4. Find a good business accountant. The accountant can help you determine what business structure you need, file any paperwork needed to form the business, and keep you straight with the state and federal taxing authorities.


5. Find a good lawyer. Interview several. It is good to have one you feel comfortable with and you can call if you need to. You may want to consult an attorney on contract creation and any legal issues specific to your business. However, many contracts can be found online at website such as. http://www.legalzoom.com/. The SBDC counselor can help you determine if you really need an attorney for anything during the startup process.


6. Identify your state and local government websites and search for corporation information and documentation, licensing, and tax information. You may need to collect and file sales tax. You may need a local occupational license. In Florida where I am located these websites are http://www.sunbiz.org/ - Florida Department of State for corporate information, http://www.myflorida.com/ - State of Florida. My local website for the city of Clearwater is http://www.myclearwater.com/. This could be a county office and website if your business is outside city limits. This is where you need to go to determine if a potential business location is zoned properly and obtain any local licenses. For a home office you need to understand the zoning laws for your area.