Want to start a business in Indiana, but not sure where to start? Below are some helpful organizations, resources, and information links that will help you get started.
Registering as an Indiana Company
Want to register your company in Indiana or have questions such as:
- What do I need to form a business in Indiana?
- How long does it take to file and for my documents to be reviewed?
- What business structure should I choose?
- What if I want to form a not-for-profit?
- What qualifies as a minority or women-owned business?
- Does the government offer business loans?
- What business names exist in Indiana?
Visit the Secretary of State website for information and resources to help you become a successful Indiana company.
Unsure if your business needs to be registered in Indiana? Check the State of Indiana’s website to learn more.
Venture Capital Investment (VCI) Tax Credit
The Venture Capital Investment Tax Credit program improves access to capital for fast growing Indiana companies by providing individual and corporate investors an additional incentive to invest in early stage firms. Investors who provide qualified debt or equity capital to Indiana companies receive a credit against their Indiana tax liability. The Venture Capital Investment Tax Credit was established by I.C. 6-3.1-24.
Indiana Tax Credits, Exemptions and Incentives
Want to know what tax credits and exemptions your company may qualify for? Or the different types of incentives Indiana offers to businesses? Visit the Incentives page on the IEDC website for more information.
Research Funding (SBIR/STTR Technical Assistance)
The federal government awards contracts and grants to small businesses to conduct research and develop new products using the Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) program – the nation’s largest source of non-dilutive seed funding. The State of Indiana has created an SBIR/STTR support program to assist entrepreneurs applying for SBIR/STTR funding as well as financial support to commercialize developed research. In particular, the state provides education and application assistance in the process of identifying and applying for SBIR proposals. Once an SBIR is awarded, the State will provide additional matching funds; committing $0.50 towards every federal dollar awarded up to $50,000 per award.
Indiana Small Business Development Corp (ISBDC) – The Office of Small Business and Entrepreneurship (OSBE)
The ISBDC provides access to the State’s most expert business consultants in a variety of specialized fields including but not limited to business plan development, capital formation, exporting, government procurement and strategic planning. Indiana understands a strong economy relies on knowledgeable, well networked, startup entrepreneurs and small business owners. To ensure Indiana continues to be a state the works, these consulting services are available at no costs for entrepreneurs launching or growing businesses.
Incubators and Co-Working Spaces
Indiana is home to over 50 incubators and co-working spaces. They help new companies grow during the startup phase to reduce the risk of small business failures. Incubators may provide management assistance, marketing support, access to financing, and technical support services. They may also offer shared office services, light industrial space, networking opportunities, access to equipment, flexible lease terms, and expandable space usually for two to three years. Incubators have different selection criteria for prospective clients based on niche markets or on assisting targeted populations. Several Indiana cities, universities, and community and economic development organizations operate business incubators. Want to find one close to you? Review the map for details.
Additional Resources
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) operates and supports several other programs throughout the State of Indiana. Visit the IEDC website to learn more.
