who helps me set up a business?

Great question. There are different types of professionals and organizations who can help you set up a business — here are some of the most important ones and what they do, so you can decide who to approach based on your needs:

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Key Helpers & What They Do

• Small Business Administration (SBA): A U.S. government agency that provides guidance, resources and tools for starting a business. Their “10 steps to start your business” is a helpful roadmap. [1]
• Business Consultants / Advisors: These people help you clarify your idea, build a business plan, evaluate the viability of the business model, and often point you toward funding or permit/licensing needs. [2]
• Accountants / CPAs: They help you with financial matters like startup costs, bookkeeping, tax structure, and financial planning for your business. [3]
• Business Attorneys / Lawyers: They help you choose the right legal structure (LLC, corporation, etc.), draft contracts, understand liability and regulatory issues. [4]
• Business Formation Services / Registered Agent Services: These are companies that help with the paperwork for forming LLCs or corporations, registering names, getting tax IDs, and filing with the state. [5]
• Business Development Centers / Mentorship Programs: Such as state or national programs that provide free or low-cost counselling, mentorship, workshops to entrepreneurs. For example, the SBA supports a network of such centers. [6]

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Which One Should You Use?

It depends on how far along you are and what you need. For example:

• If you’re still exploring your idea → a business consultant/advisor or a mentoring program would help.
• If you know your product/service and need to get legal & financial structure in place → an accountant + attorney are important.
• If you just need to get the legal business entity formed (LLC, corporation) and the basics done → a business formation service can simplify that for you.
• If you want guidance on all of the above (idea, plan, legal, financial, licences) → use a bundle of help (mentor + lawyer + accountant + formation service) or a development center.

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Tips for Finding Good Help

• Ask for credentials: e.g., attorney license, CPA license. Check for complaints/licensing as recommended by your local small business development center. [7]
• Get clear on cost and what services you’re getting: flat fee vs hourly vs package. [8]
• Make sure you have a business plan and clear structure before paying large sums. The SBA steps give a good structure to follow. [9]
• Network with other small business owners, local chamber of commerce, etc., for referrals and firsthand experience.

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If you like, I can look up local resources in Portland, Maine (or your county) that help entrepreneurs set up businesses (free or low-cost). Would that be helpful?

Small Business Administration (SBA): Offers a wide range of resources, including business planning, how to secure loans, and educational training.

Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs): Provide free, one-on-one counseling from experienced consultants on topics like marketing, financing, and management.

SCORE: A national network of volunteer business mentors who offer free guidance to entrepreneurs.

Women's Business Centers, Veterans Business Outreach Centers, etc.: The SBA also has specialized centers that offer assistance tailored to specific groups, such as women and veterans.

State and local economic development departments: Your state or city may have its own resources, such as grants, tax incentives, or incubators.