Learn how to assess your business idea, prepare a written business plan, and develop a structure for your business. The Custom Resource Guide also includes information on government business requirements, counseling, training, and other entrepreneurial resources.
Thinking of starting a business but don't know where to begin? Use the links below to find the tools necessary to get your business up and running.
Gain valuable insight with the most comprehensive business start up guide in the nation, and tap into Colorado’s Small Business Development Centers, dedicated to helping business achieve their goals. Click here to get started.
The first step in starting a new business is to file a document creating a new record with the Secretary of State’s Office. If you need to register a trade name or reserve a name for your business. You can also complete those forms online. Click here to get started.
Most businesses will need to obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) from the Internal Revenue Service. This is true if you are forming a corporation, limited liability company, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, OR sole proprietorship with employees. Click here for additional information about the FEIN.
After you have established your legal structure and received a FEIN you will need to register a business with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment for Unemployment Insurance (UI) tax purposes. Once the online registration is complete and certain criteria are met, the business is assigned a UI tax account number and an initial UI tax rate.
You must print a copy of your completed online application and mail it to the Colorado Department of Revenue to establish your sales and wage-withholding tax accounts. If your business does not qualify to file online you can download and complete the required CR 0100, Colorado Business Registration form and file it in person or by mail.
Certain types of businesses need to be licensed or register with the Department of Regulatory Agencies. Click here to determine if you need this license for your business..
