Session 9: Business Launch
9a. Regulations & Compliance 9b. Managing Business Risk 9c. Business Readiness Checklist 9d. Strategic Mapping Worksheet Summary
PURCHASE OPTIONAL
WORKBOOK


1. Self-Assessment
2. Business Idea
3. Market Analysis
4. Management Skills
5. Business Planning
6. Forecasting
7. Financing
8. Support Help
9. Venture Launch
10. Monitor Progress
Graduation Certificate

Module 9a: Regulations and Other Compliance Issues

Depending on the nature of your business, there may be various permits and licenses you need to obtain before you can "open for business." These are not normally difficult to obtain. However, if you neglect to apply for them in time, they can become a serious hold-up to your operation.

The place to start is the town or city hall for the area where your business will be located. They will inform you of local regulations. You can check with your regional planning commission for other area regulations and requirements. The trade association for your type of business can inform you of state and regional requirements for your particular industry. The local SBDC office will normally have a list of regulations for different types of business. Your lawyer can be a final resource once you have pursued the no-cost avenues. Investigate these resources early in the development process so you won't unknowingly create a problem for yourself.

Labor laws and regulations ranging from minimum wage, employing juveniles, hours, sexual harassment and other issues can represent serious problems if not properly addressed. The local Department of Labor office can provide much valuable advice. A payroll service can be a valuable resource to help with many of these issues as well. Work place safety is governed by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rules and regulations, and other safety issues by Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) rules and regulations. Much valuable advice is available through their web sites and from their local/regional offices.

The public sector programs are listed in BUZGate.org under the Free Help menu navigation term. Here you will find the listing for your local regional planning commission, various trade associations and local SBDC office. The Secretary of State office for your state or Department of Economic Development may have a list of state and local regulations as well.

Now - on to 9b: Managing Business Risk

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