Business Resources
“To begin, if you started on this tab… hello… I’m Shelly Land I want to help others… help themselves! I want to empower you! Being self-employed is great, but it takes time amongst other things.
Therefore, I’ve listed business resources for you. I have a plethora of information via my affiliate links, the bold words throughout, and within most images (please use them and thank you). Additionally, websites that are not affiliates are here to assist you on your journey.
Moreover, everyone has different paths and factors to consider/research… such as demographics or funding to name a few… so take your time… be proactive.
To add, if you’re interested in launching a call center via Arise, contact me for a referral link.
Want to Start A Business?
Use of this agency’s logo and website’s link does not imply an endorsement, preferential treatment, or suggest a relationship that does not exist. There is a host of information via SBA.
First: Market Analysis
Second: Write Business Plan
Then: Launch Your Business
After choosing your business structure you may decide to open a general business. In Norfolk, Virginia you would start here.
EIN
Get your EIN. Federal Tax Identification Number. It’s helpful to know… you can’t use your registered address for your EIN. This is not an affiliate link. Open a business checking account too. Additionally, some businesses may require a surety bond.
Business Credit
When you apply for a DUNs Number with D&B, the Data Universal Numbering System issues a nine-digit number that is unique to your company. Click on the image.
This DUNs number is used to create your business credit file, similar to how your social security number is used to identify your personal credit reports.
Virtual Office
If you’re a home based business, invest in a professional live receptionist, mail and additional services starting at $99 in multiple states. Here is my link. I paid $120 because the call out feature and the toll free number was an additional/optional $10 each. The call out feature required the use of an app that concealed my private number, it appeared that I was calling from my office line.
Currently, I use the $79 live receptionist option, since I have a physical location. Contact me directly for this option, then check out my link for details.
Ascension Collective is prepared to accelerate your business!
Additionally, do you need help updating your business address in Virginia? Use this link via the SCC (State Corporation Commission).
Incorporate
If you decide you’d rather incorporate because you have or expect to have employees… this is useful information.
A corporation or LLC takes on the liability risk.
I recommend Tailor Brands. Pretty much everything you need to start your business is a click away.
Additionally, you will need a registered agent. If you used the link above to form your LLC, you probably had the option to add this service. If you didn’t, you can now. Every state requires a corporation or an LLC to have one. This address will be used by the state for any official legal and tax correspondence, it is not the same as your business address.
We offer DIY credit resolution resources.
Create Content
First, install DreamHost. Once installed, select WordPress to build your site/blog.
Also, if you haven’t created your logo via Tailor Brand then design an amazing free logo with Canva. I earn points to access amazing stock photos and etc. if you click on the link. I love that Canva has stock photos included. I do not recommend using unauthorized images.
Check out some of my work. LE Digital.
My sons offer graphics as well.
Accept payments
Get a free mobile card reader or inquire about prices for the point of sale system. Click on the image.
Also, you may consider Cash App, a mobile payment service developed by Square, Inc., to transfer or receive money.
Marketing Tools
ScreenPal is EXCITING! If you’re interested in creating tutorials this platform is amazing. Click on the image to sign up.
Create an eBook easily. No design or technical skills… no worries.
Initially, I published my Designrr creation via Issuu. To add, Amazon and other self publishing options may work for you. However, I enjoy showcasing all of my merch in one place with Spring.
Giveaways are a great way to market your brand. I have used and like Gleam.
Later is an AWESOME tool for scheduling your social media posts! I LOVE it.
Accounting
Gusto is a company that provides a cloud-based payroll, benefits, and human resource management software for businesses based in the United States. Sign up here for details.
Office Supplies
I love Amazon for personal and my business use. Not to mention you can establish a business credit account to build credit. Click here to create your free Amazon Business account. However, to apply for an American Express business credit card you have to upgrade to Amazon Business Prime.
Investments
You may consider Robinhood. They provide free stock options, so once you sign up… refer your friends, family, clients, or business associates and you’ll get stock!
Lastly, Stash. This is another great product… click for $20 of free stock!
