How To Start a Small Business
Starting a Business in Ellis County
Starting a business is an exciting opportunity, and the The Chamber in Hays is here to help! Whether you're launching your first business or expanding into Ellis County, this guide connects you with trusted local, regional, and state resources to help you plan, register, and grow your business.
Business Startup Checklist
Use the checklist below to jump directly to the section you need.
- Develop Your Business Idea
- Create a Business Plan
- Explore Financing
- Register Your Business
- Licenses & Permits
- Planning & Inspections
- Grow Your Business
1. Develop Your Business Idea
Every successful business begins with a great idea. Before investing your time and money, identify the products or services you'll offer, research your competition, and understand the needs of your target customers.
Resources to Help You
Explore local entrepreneurship programs, business support services, and financing opportunities available throughout Ellis County.
Wichita State University Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Receive free one-on-one business consulting, market research, and assistance developing your business concept.
Connect with experienced volunteer mentors who provide free, confidential guidance to entrepreneurs.
2. Create a Business Plan
A business plan serves as your roadmap. It outlines your goals, target market, operations, marketing strategy, and financial projections while preparing you for financing opportunities.
Resources to Help You
Work with business advisors to create a professional business plan and financial projections.
Receive mentoring and feedback from experienced business professionals as you prepare your business plan.
3. Explore Financing
Many businesses need startup capital. Ellis County offers several organizations that can help you explore loan programs, financing options, and economic development opportunities.
Resources to Help You
Explore financing opportunities designed to help startups and expanding businesses.
Learn about local entrepreneurship programs and financing resources.
Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center (NWKEICI)
Access business financing, entrepreneurial coaching, and technical assistance.
4. Register Your Business
Choose the business structure that best fits your goals and register your business with the State of Kansas. Depending on your business, you may also need tax registrations and employer accounts.
Resources to Help You
Register your business entity with the State of Kansas.
Register for sales tax and other required business tax accounts.
Register as an employer and learn about unemployment insurance requirements.
5. Licenses & Permits
Certain businesses require additional permits or licenses depending on the products or services they provide.
Resources to Help You
Learn about licensing, inspections, and food safety requirements.
Information about licensing for businesses serving or selling alcohol.
Determine whether your business qualifies for a Kansas sales tax exemption certificate.
6. Planning & Inspections
Before opening your business, verify zoning requirements and determine whether permits or inspections are required for your location.
Resources to help you in Hays, Kansas
Visit the City of Hays website to learn about planning, permits, inspections, utilities, and other city services for businesses.
Review zoning requirements before selecting a business location.
Learn about building permits and inspection requirements.
Schedule required fire safety inspections.
Resources to help you in Ellis County
Visit the Ellis County, Kansas website to learn about planning, permits, inspections, utilities, and other city services for businesses.
Review zoning regulations and land use requirements for businesses outside Hays city limits.
7. Grow Your Business
Opening your business is just the beginning. Continue building your network and promoting your business through Chamber programs and community involvement.
Resources to Help You
Join the The Chamber in Hays, Kansas to connect with local businesses, increase your visibility, and take advantage of networking and marketing opportunities.
Attend networking events, Ribbon Cuttings, educational programs, and community celebrations.
Promote your business through Chamber events and sponsorship opportunities.
Hays Young Professionals (HYP)
Build your professional network and develop leadership skills through HYP programs.
Need Additional Assistance?
If you have questions about starting a business in Ellis County or would like to learn more about local resources, contact The Chamber in Hays, Kansas. We're happy to connect you with organizations and programs that can help your business succeed.
The Chamber in Hays, Kansas Hotline
Phone: 785-628-8201
Email: hayscc@hayschamber.com
Website: https://hayschamber.com
