Business Resources
Find the resources and support you need to start, grow, and succeed in your business. This page features a helpful checklist, valuable links, and information about our Small Business Member Assistance program. Explore employment opportunities with local businesses too!
Checklist for new businesses
Conduct Market Research
WRITE YOUR BUSINESS PLAN
- Small Business Administration Plan
- SBDC Small Business Checklist
- Consider using AI (Ex. ChatGPT)
- Business Plan Examples
FUND YOUR BUSINESS
CHOOSE A BUSINESS STRUCTURE
- Local Accountants
- Simplify LLC
- Legal Compliance
- Contact your local or state government to register your business
Pick your business location
apply for licenses & permits
Refine marketing plan
- Establish an online presence
- Claim your domain and/or social media pagesa
ORGANIZE YOUR FINANCIAL REPORTS
- Find the best bookkeeping software for your company or organization. Consult an accountant or bookkeeper for recommendations.
- Obtain Business Insurance
Join the dekalb chamber of commerce
keep learning
additional Small Business Resources
- Small Business Capital and Infrastructure Grant Program
- Small Business Glossary of Terms
- IRS Small Business Tax Workshop
- City of DeKalb Maps & GIS
- Small Business Development Kishwaukee College
- DeKalb County Small Business Resources
- Small Business Development Center
- SCORE (Service Core of Retired Executives)
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
- Verizon Small Business Opportunities
- Business Resource Center
- Internal Revenue Service
- Meta for Small Businesses
- Grow with Google
- Hello Alice
- LinkedIn Small Business
- Canva
- Fivver
- DeKalb Leadership Academy
State & National Resources
- Illinois Chamber of Commerce
- Illinois Department of Public Health
- Illinois Department of Revenue
- Benefit Finder
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- IRS Small Business Information
- World Health Organization
- Your Guide to Starting a Business in Illinois
- Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity
- Illinois Main Street
- Beneficial Ownership Information (U.S. Treasury)
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce Resources for Small Businesses
- U.S. General Services Administration
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- U.S. Small Business Administration (Guidance and Loan Resources)
small business Member Assistance Fund
In an initiative to assist local businesses, the DeKalb Chamber offers the Small Business Member Assistance Fund. This fund offers financial aid specifically for DeKalb Chamber benefits, covering expenses such as membership dues, e-blasts, sponsorships, program registration, and event registration. Requests for funds will be reviewed weekly, allowing businesses to apply for up to 50% of their total expenses. For larger requests, businesses can contact the Chamber for special approval after submitting the application. Please consider making a donation to this fund to help local businesses continue to be great assets to our community.
Employment Opportunities
DeKalb offers a vibrant job market with opportunities across a wide range of industries. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, you'll find businesses committed to growth and innovation. Local employers value the strong community ties and diverse skill sets that make DeKalb a great place to live and work. Explore opportunities today and take the next step in your career right here in our community!