Getting Started
Whether you are based out of state and wish to do business here, or you are just getting started, this is where to learn about important obligations you may have, as well as resources to help you succeed. Please also be sure to visit other areas within Mass.Gov's Business section.
-
When you start a business, you need to do more than decide whether to incorporate or not; you need to choose a name and register with various federal, state and local agencies. You may also need certain licenses and permits.
-
Some types of businesses and certain professions and trades require a special license, registration or certificate from a state agency or your city or town. You may also require building, environmental or other types of permits from state and local government. See 'Licensing, Permitting & Regulation' to find out what licenses or permits you may need to get your business started.
-
Let us help you find the right site in Massachusetts. Is your company expanding or relocating? Use this website to meet your facility needs. Search our database of buildings with at least 25,000 square feet of available space; land sites of 5 acres and above; and land sites that can support a build-out of at least 25, 000 square feet. We also provide a staff-assisted customized site search - just provide us with some basic information, and we will get to work for you.
-
Many government, nonprofit and volunteer organizations help new businesses get going and help small businesses succeed.
-
The Community features discussion forums, an idea page and blogs, where small business owners can talk about their unique business issues and get direct access to even more valuable resources. The goal is for the Community to foster more engagement between the small business community and the government so that the collective expertise from both groups can be leveraged for greater collaboration and success.