It takes a lot of planning, research, and hard work to get your start-up, well, started up. Let’s get you on the right track.

Step 1: Register Business Name

Nebraska Secretary of State (402-471-4079)
The Secretary of State is responsible for registering trade names and business names. It is important to register with the Secretary of State if doing business as anything other than yourself.

Step 2: Get Tax Identification Number

Internal Revenue Service (1-800-829-4933)
The IRS issues Employer Identification Numbers, the unique number that identifies your business. Check with the IRS to see if you need an EIN or contact the IRS with questions.

Step 3: Register Business

Nebraska Department of Revenue (1-800-742-7474)
It is necessary to register with the Department of Revenue if you will have employees, engage in retail sales, rent or lease property, or provide any taxable services. In order to register, fill out the Form 20 on the Department of Revenue’s website and submit it according to the form instructions. If you have any questions, review the Frequently Asked Questions section on NDOR’s website or contact them.

Step 4: Determine Needed Insurance

Nebraska Department of Labor (402-471-9898)
The Department of Labor handles Unemployment Insurance, New Hire reporting, contractor registration, and other labor-related programs. If you are planning on hiring employees, please contact the Department of Labor to ensure you are properly covered.

Here are some organizations to help you get started.

In order to serve new businesses, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development partners with organizations that specialize in either providing technical assistance, small business lending, or both. Consider reaching out to these organizations for guidance and financing options.

  • Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) – provides assistance with business planning, market analysis, and loan guarantees through the federal Small Business Administration.
  • Invest Nebraska – provides technical assistance, micro loans, and early stage investment (angel and venture capital).
  • Rural Enterprise Assistance Project (REAP) – provides technical assistance, business training, and financing through micro lending.
  • Nebraska Enterprise Fund – provides training and mentoring, direct micro lending, and loan guarantees.
  • Grow Nebraska – provides business training, technical assistance, promotion, and marketing opportunities.

If it’s a business loan you need, or information about loan guarantee programs, check out the following information:

Business Loan & Loan Guarantee Programs

Microenterprise (5 or Fewer Employees) & Other Direct Loans

Venture Capital