Resources for New Businesses

Loans and Grants

PPP loan forgiveness program for small businesses. Borrowers may be eligible for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan forgiveness. You can check the eligibility for loan forgiveness at the Small Business Administration's website. 

The U.S Small Business Administration’s (SBA) COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. Applications are open for loans with borrowing limits of up to $2 million vs. the previous cap of $500,000. Visit www.sba.gov/eidl to learn more about eligibility and application requirements. The last day that applications may be received is December 31, 2021. To check other Covid-19 relief programs, please visit SBA's website.

SBA's Restaurant Revitalization Funds are still available for restaurant owners. 

To check other Covid-19 relief programs, please visit SBA's website.

https://www.grants.gov/ has many resources for those who are interested in federal grants.

Grant opportunities for women-owned businesses.

WeAspire 2022 (applications by April 1, 2022): D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development will provide cohort-based training. Every participant will win at least $2,000 to grow their business or business idea. 

Commercial Property Acquisition Fund of D.C. provides down payment assistance through grants of up to $750,000 or 25% of the sale price, whichever is less, to eligible businesses looking to maintain and expand their operations in D.C.

General Legal Resources

Four ways to protect your intellectual property for keeping it safe (by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce).

Tax Deductions For Home-Based Businesses. Tips from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

International Trade Administration offers country-specific commercial guides for those who are thinking to export. Also, the International Business office of DC Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development has many resources for those who do international business.

How to open a franchise - tips from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. 

Starting a Business in 2022: What to Know (tips from SCORE).

Pricing models for a successful business - legal issues. Video course by the Small Business Administration.

Free webinar recording for small businesses: DC Small Business Legal Compliance and Corporate Best Practices, including useful handouts. 

DC Lawhelp has a comprehensive guide on how to form an LLC in D.C.

DSLBD's toolkit for DC businesses: events, training & networking.

SBA Veteran Small Business Resource Brief (recurring online training)

Tools 

SBA offers free Trade Tools for international sales. 

If you are planning to open a website for your business, consider a Free domain, website builder, and hosting services from Galaxy Sites.

If you need a business plan, consider using free business plan templates.