FAQs
Start Your Business
How do I register my business name?
Register the business name with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC).
What is the difference between an LLC, a corporation, a partnership, sole proprietor, etc.?
Business entity types differ in the liability for the owners, filing requirements, funding options, reporting requirements, tax implications, etc. To register your business entity, you must file with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC).
How do I obtain a federal EIN number?
You can get a Federal EIN number from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) online.
How do I get a Virginia State Tax Account Number?
Generally, if you have business activity in the Commonwealth of Virginia, you need to register your business with the Virginia Department of Taxation.
I am a Sole Proprietor and want to know how to register a Fictitious Name?
The Clerk’s Office of the State Corporation Commission is the central filing office in Virginia for all certificates of assumed or fictitious name.
How does an out-of-state business register to do business in Virginia?
Register your business as a foreign entity with the State Corporation Commission.
Non-Virginia business registration forms
Register your business as a foreign entity with the State Corporation Commission.
Click here for Non-Virginia business registration forms.
Virginia Statutory Provisions
Operate your business
How do I understand the market’s needs/trends?
Using market research is critical in order to analyze your overall market, its competitors, industry trends.
Where can I get training and assistance to operate my business?
For training and assistance, connect with your localSmall Business Development Center (SBDC), Women’s Business Center, or the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE).
What do I need to know about managing my business?
Strong management is the cornerstone of business success, equipping leaders with the tools to inspire teams, streamline processes, and steer the organization through opportunities and obstacles alike.
Grow Your Business
How do I expand my product and services?
Expanding into new markets is a strategic pathway for business growth that involves introducing your existing products or services to customer segments, geographic regions, or industry sectors you have not previously served.
How do I retain my current customers?
For more tips and strategies, visit the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) for
best practices for customer retention.
I want to export, what do I need to do?
For resources and information on exporting, visit Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) International Trade resource or International Trade Administration International Trade Administration
How do I get started in government contracting?
Find more information about government contracting here.
Finance your business
What financing opportunities can help me grow my business?
Find more information about financing opportunities here.
Are there grants to start or fund my business?
Grants are a type of funding typically from a government agency, foundation, or corporation for a specific purpose. Explore resources for grant
Does the Commonwealth of Virginia offer loans?
Find more information about loan opportunities in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
What's Next
What are some options should I decide I no longer want to be a business owner?
There are many options you can take depending on your goals, financial situation, and the type of business you run should you decide no longer you want to be a business owner.
Are there any free business training and education resources available for business owners?
Yes! You can explore upcoming workshops and training opportunities by visiting the SBSD event page.