| A | B |
|---|
| Small Business Administration (SBA) | promotes small business development, helps businesses secure government contracts, and provides assistance and advice on how small businesses can increase revenues and profits. |
| Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) | A volunteer organization in which retired business executives share their business experience with small business owners. |
| Small Business Institute (SBI) | Free counseling services provided by student teams at many colleges. |
| United States Department of Commerce | provides social and economic statistics for businesses as well as research and support for scientific, engineering, and technological development. It also issues patents and trademarks, provides assistance to promote economic development, and encourages minority-run businesses. |
| Federal Trade Commission (FTC) | ensures that business practices in the United States are fair. It constantly monitors all aspects of business including pricing, competition, credit, and export trade. It makes and enforces rules that regulate trade and protect consumers. |
| Internal Revenue Service (IRS): | issues federal taxpayer identification numbers to businesses, distributes publications that explain tax laws, and assists with tax-related questions. |
| Small Business Development Center (SBDC) | is funded by the federal government and state governments. Usually located in colleges and universities, these centers provide counseling and management assistance to small businesses. |
| Department of Development (DOD) | This agency administers federal community development programs. The DOD provides assistance to small and developing businesses through a Small Business Division and Minority Business Development Division. |
| Workers’ Compensation Board | All business owners who employ workers are required to provide insurance that gives employees or their survivors benefits in the event of work-related injuries or deaths. This board works with employers to provide this insurance at reasonable costs. |
| The State Department of Agriculture and Consumer Protection Division | This agency issues permits for businesses involved in the processing, handling, storage, or distribution of food products. It also issues permits for public-interest businesses such as day care centers, schools, financial institutions, and employment agencies. |
