Starting Your Business In Illinois Handbook

              INTRODUCTION
Starting a new business can be both exciting and frightening. There are many practical things to
consider -- location, size, employees, quality control, etc. And then there are the anxieties and
concerns: "Will I make it?" "Am I in over my head?" "Where do I start?"
Start by having confidence! Acquaint yourself with the basic procedures for opening a business in
Illinois through this handbook and by utilizing the programs available through the Department of
Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). This publication is designed to answer some of the
questions about starting a business. The information is applicable to all business startups, with an
emphasis toward small companies, which comprise over 98 percent of all businesses in Illinois.
To help ensure your business' success, it is of the utmost importance that you are aware of all the
regulations, requirements and aspects of operating a business before beginning your endeavor. Ensure
that you have all necessary licenses, permits or registrations applied for and approved before you open
your door. Although this publication offers a great deal of information, it should not be used as the
sole reference when starting a business. Legal rules and regulations are constantly changing; updates
can be obtained through the many state agencies that are listed within this handbook. Finally,
remember that it is important to check with both your city and county clerk before undertaking any
business venture.
The Illinois Entrepreneurship Network was established throughout the state to provide business
management, counseling and training, assistance in entering international markets, information on
competing for state and federal contracts, developing technology related products and providing a
supportive environment for new, startup businesses. This network consists of Small Business
Development Centers, Procurement Technical Assistance Centers, International Trade/NAFTA
Centers, Small Business Incubators and of course Entrepreneurship Centers. Assistance is provided in
the areas of preparing business and marketing plans, securing capital, improving business skills,
accessing international trade opportunities and addressing other business management needs. DCEO
also has programs targeted to assist minority and women-owned business concerns. The Illinois
Entrepreneurship Network is a collaborative arrangement among DCEO, the US Small Business
Administration, the US Department of Defense, colleges and universities and private business
organizations. Pursuant to the Business Assistance and Regulatory Reform Act, the Illinois
Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) created the IEN Business Information
Center of Illinois (the Center). The goal of the Center is to enhance the state's business climate by
making it easier for businesses to comply with government requirements and gain access to the
information they need to be competitive. Whether a startup or existing business, this handbook will
inform you of various legal requirements and guide you to additional resources. If you have any
questions after reading the handbook, contact the Center or your local Small Business Development
Center and a staff member will further assist you. For business information, contact the IEN Help Line
at 1-800/252-2923, (TDD 1-800/785-6055). All of the Center's products also are available through the
World Wide Web at www.ienconnect.com.