Small Business Resources

Welcome Dreamers, Doers, Creators and Makers!

Running a small business is hard work and we understand. The Shawnee EDC is here to support you whether you are just getting started or have been growing your own small business for many years. We work with several local and regional partners to source demographic and market data, identify funding sources, make connections with other small business owners and generally work to make succeeding in business a little easier.

Finding the Idea

Creating a Plan

Make it Official

Staying Engaged

Finding the Idea

Have an idea?

Start with asking the right questions.

What is the need you fill or problem you solve? = Value Proposition
Who are you selling to? = Target Market
How would you like to make money? = Revenue Model
How will you differentiate your company from what is already out there? = Unique selling proposition
What are the barriers to entry?
How many competitors do you have and what quality are they? = Competitive Analysis
How big is your market in dollars? = Market Size
How fast is the market growing or shrinking? = Market Growth
What percent of the market do you believe you could gain? = Market Share
What type of company would this be? = Sole Proprietorship or Corporation
How much would it cost to get started? = Start-Up Costs
Do you plan to use debt capital or raise investment? If so, how much and what type? = Investment needs
Do you have an exit strategy?
If you take on investment, how much money to you think your investors will get back in return? = ROI

Creating a Plan

Get it in writing.

A solid business plan is the key to your success. Use the Small Business Administration's Templates to get you started.

Tools of the Trade

There is an amazing wealth of information for starting a new business out there. Below are some Shawnee’s partners working to make your business work for you.

Make it Official

Make it happen!

Utilize this checklist that provides you with a list of necessary licenses and certificates to apply for and obtain prior to starting your business in Shawnee.

Federal and State Required Documents

City Requirements

Zoning, building requirements and licenses from the city will be required before you can open you business. Click here for City of Shawnee requirements.

Location, location, location!

Now it's time to find your offices, store front or land to construct on. What type of property or plot will be best for you?

Click here to see available sites and buildings in Shawnee or contact our office to discuss your needs.

Get your funding.

The Shawnee Chamber and EDC have a variety of banking and financial institution members. Whether its investment to grow bigger or to get started, consider utilizing any of the Shawnee Chamber's members for your funding needs.

Staying Engaged

Utilize your Shawnee network!

Make the most out of your Shawnee Chamber Membership by utilizing all of the great networking events and programs that are offered!

Join the Shawnee Chamber

See Shawnee Chamber Events

Get Involved at the Shawnee Chamber

The Shawnee EDC also offers a variety of programming for its Investor Partners. Stay on top of the EDC's routine communication and announcements to maximize your partnership with our organization.

HELPFUL LINKS

City of Shawnee, KS - Starting a New Business
State of Kansas - Business Center One Stop

Managing Phase

Funding Phase

Minority/Women Owned Resources