From Start to Finish

Guide to Starting Your New Business in Alton, IL

Alton Main Street and the City of Alton

An Alton-specific, step-by-step guide for getting your business up and running, from writing a business plan to obtaining licenses and permits.

Starting Your Business in Illinois Handbook

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

A comprehensive guide for starting and operating a business in Illinois.

Small Business Administration

Offers guides, funding programs, and online classes for small businesses, from the initial steps to day-to-day operations and expansion.

• • Business Guide

    Step-by-step guides for planning, launching, managing, and growing a small business.

  • Learning Center

    Free, online courses covering the full spectrum of small business ownership and operation.

Assistance for Businesses

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

A collection of resources and guides for business owners addressing a diverse range of business questions, from incentives and tax credits to low interest loans and more.

• • Programs and Services Guide

    Directory of programs and services catering to entrepreneurs and small businesses.

  • Publications and Guides

    A digital library of guides for starting and managing a business, including financial guidance, grant writing, and marketing.

The Small Business Start-Up Kit: A Step-by-Step Legal Guide

by Peri Pakroo (2020), 346.73 PAK

Includes resources and information for starting a small business, online and offline, including creating and using business and marketing plans and complying with tax rules.

Financial Guidance

IDOR Business Resources

Illinois Department of Revenue

Extensive, in-depth information and instructions related to business registration and taxes.

Small Business Assistance

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

Offers information, guidance, and assistance to start-ups and small businesses on a variety of issues, including financial topics:

• • Loans and Financing

  • Incentives and Tax Credits

  • Low Interest Loan Programs

Tax Savvy for Small Business

by Frederick W. Daily (2021), 343.7305 DAI

A guide for creating a business tax strategy. This edition includes updates that cover new tax rules under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) and how they affect small businesses.

Home Business Tax Deductions: Keep What You Earn

by Stephen Fishman (2020), 343.7305 FIS

A how-to guide for claiming all of the tax deductions you’re entitled to in your home business.

Grant Writing

by Beverly A. Browning (2022), 658.15224 BRO

Walks you through the grant writing process, including creating a strategic plan, using online databases, and applying for e-grants.