You’ve had the dream of owning your own business for quite some time. But where do you start?

There are excellent resources available providing information that can help with that conundrum. The following list of websites contains content that will point you in the right direction, with everything from assistance in finding local mentors, various financing options and grants, to anything in between.

• Score.org is an excellent site to begin your research or seek advice. It’s a free mentoring service whether you’re in your “idea” phase or having difficulty in a specific area. They offer online courses including a start-up roadmap among others. There’s also business templates for various financial statements and a resource hub for diverse types of entrepreneurs with specific needs, such as women and rural entrepreneurs. This is not a full summary of everything offered on score.org, so check it out.

• SBA.gov is another great resource. Not only does it explain your funding options, but it also has a comprehensive business guide. The business guide starts with 10 steps to start your business, then runs through how to plan, launch, manage and grow your business. Explore and learn.

• Nerd Wallet has published an in-depth article on small business grants for women including private, federal, state and local sources. Did you know if you are a mom or live in rural Texas, there are grants geared specifically for you? Check it out here: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/small-business/small-business-grants-for-women

• Stormboard.com is an interactive tool for brainstorming innovative ideas, visualizing and managing workflows, setting guidelines for how work should be completed and providing opportunities for team feedback and suggestions. There are both free and paid editions offering varied features available for small to large organizations.

The above listed are just a few tools on the website, so explore, organize and create!

If you investigate the steps needed in starting a business, you’ll always find planning and research included. You’ll need discipline and willingness to invest the time to lay your foundation.

Fortunately, the internet provides literally hundreds of articles and references to local, state, federal and private agencies to aid in doing such. You can’t throw paint at a canvas and hope for a masterpiece.

Plan and research and research and plan. Ensure your enterprise has a bigger chance of success. Take the time and proper steps to making your dream a reality.