• Read the State's guide to starting a business

Naming Your Business

• Learn about choosing a business name
• Conduct a search to determine availability and register your trade name with the county clerk's office
• Conduct a search of corporate, LLC, LP, LLP, etc. names to determine availability and avoid infringement
• Obtain the proper form and reserve a name for your corporation, LLC, LP, LLP, etc. (Register it when you file the documents creating your business structure.)

Business Structures

• Learn about business structures choices in your state
• Use SBA's Business Structure Wizard
• Obtain forms & information about fee schedules and registration

Licenses And Permits

State Licensing

• Read about required licenses and permits
• Learn about professional licenses that may be needed
• Determine which environmental permits you may need

Local Licensing

• Detroit
• Grand Rapids
• Warren
• Flint
• Other areas

Trademarks

• Learn about trademarks
• Obtain the form and learn how to register your trademark with the state