Getting Started

Thinking about going into business?  Do you need help with your existing small business?  Do you have an idea for a new product that you'd like to commercialize?

Whether you're looking for some help or some answers, the Iowa County Economic Development Office is committed to providing the best assistance to you.  Let us know what you need and we can connect you to the resources that will lead you in the right direction or guide you to a solution that works for you and your business.

Have a new business idea?

So you've got an idea of a new product or service and you think you might want to start a business.

ICEDO can assist you as you explore starting your business or commercializing your product, and can link you to agencies that provide financial and business planning assistance, programs and resources available at the local, state, and federal levels.

The Iowa County Business Tax, Legal & Regulatory Consideration outlines everything you need to know about starting a business in Iowa County.

The Business Plan

There are many benefits to writing a business plan.  Research has shown that 60 percent of businesses that complete a business plan survive two or more years; compared to 15 percent of businesses without business plans.  Your success is largely dependent on how much you understand your business and business sector.  A business plan helps you organize your thoughts and your resources and is essential when securing investors and credit.

The US Small Business Administration provides a great deal of information and resources for new and growing businesses.  In addition, some good business plan templates can be found at the SCORE web site here .

Free advice goes a long way.  Several agencies in Iowa County and southwest Wisconsin can provide their expertise to get you to the next level.  You may contact ICEDO for one-on-one assistance, or for a referral to our valued partners at Southwest Community Action Program (SWCAP) , and/or the Southwest WI Small Business Development Center (SBDC) .