Business Resources
Starting a Business
Start here. Whether you have an idea on a napkin or have been open for years, pick the box that sounds like you. Each one has two or three of the best free resources to begin with, no searching required.
1
Exploring a business idea
Have an idea and wondering if it can work? Start here.
- Simple Steps for Starting Your BusinessSCORE · TemplateA free workbook with practical exercises to help you decide if starting a business is right for you and what to think through first.
- The Startup RoadmapSCORE (SCORE Academy) · Online courseA free, step-by-step online course that walks you from testing your idea to opening day, with tasks to complete and topics to discuss with a mentor.
- SCORE Northwest Central IndianaSCORE · Free advisingGet a free, experienced business mentor for as long as you need one, and join free online workshops on topics like pricing, funding, and taxes.
2
Preparing to open
Ready to make it official? Register, get tax IDs and budget.
- Indiana Business RoadmapIndiana Secretary of State (INBiz) · ChecklistIndiana's official 12-step to-do list for registering your business with the state, getting tax IDs, and staying in good standing.
- Northwest Indiana SBDCIndiana Small Business Development Center (hosted by Purdue University Northwest) · Free advisingFree one-on-one help from business advisors at the Northwest Indiana SBDC in Crown Point for starting, funding, or growing your business, plus regular startup workshops.
3
Looking for more customers
Open for business and want more people through the door?
- Add or claim your Business ProfileGoogle (Google Business Profile Help) · GuideStep-by-step instructions to add your business to Google or claim the listing that already exists, then verify it so you control what customers see.
- Marketing Plan TemplateSCORE · TemplateA free Word template to map out your goals, customers, competition and a simple marketing to-do list.
- Digital Ready BusinessesPurdue Extension Community Development · Training programPurdue Extension workshops and webinars that teach Indiana business owners to get listed online, use social media and email, and track results, with an optional certificate.
4
Improving your finances and operations
Get a handle on bookkeeping, cash flow and your time.
- Bookkeeping Essentials Every Small Business Owner NeedsSCORE (sponsored by Block Advisors by H&R Block) · Recorded webinarA free one-hour recorded class on how bookkeeping works, choosing cash or accrual, and keeping records all year so tax time is less stressful.
- 12 Month Cash Flow StatementSCORE · TemplateA free fill-in template to plan your cash for the next 12 months so you can see shortfalls coming before they happen.
- Time Management Strategies for Small Business OwnersSCORE · Recorded webinarLearn practical ways to plan your week, set up your calendar and decide what to delegate so you spend time on what matters.
5
Putting technology and AI to work
Use AI and simple tools safely to save time.
- AI for Small Business: Find Opportunities and Take ActionSCORE (National Small Business Week Learning Lab; sponsored by Consulting IQ) · Recorded webinarA one-hour recorded workshop that helps you find where AI could save you time, rank your ideas, and leave with a simple seven-day plan to get started.
- Scams and Your Small Business: A Guide for BusinessFederal Trade Commission · GuideLearn the warning signs of common scams aimed at small businesses, like fake invoices and impostor calls, and how to train staff and report fraud.
- Indiana Small Business Cybersecurity Portal - GCA Cybersecurity ToolkitGlobal Cyber Alliance, sponsored by Indiana SBDC / Indiana Economic Development Corporation · ToolkitA free Indiana toolkit that walks you through securing your computers, passwords, email and backups one step at a time, with links to Indiana help.
Where to next?
Please note: These educational resources come from outside organizations. The Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce does not control their content or endorse any product or service, and nothing here is legal, tax, financial, or employment advice. Check details with the provider or a qualified professional. Links last checked October 2026.