Government Websites

In this section we have gathered some of the most reliable freely available online government and employment websites for you to use in your research.

Industry News

In this section we have gathered some of the most popular information sources, such as trade journals, magazines, blogs, and association websites. Industry information is always changing. For the latest news, current issues and popular opinions, try following one or more of these sources. In addition, interacting with the websites that provide this information through commenting and asking questions may also provide you with more information.

Library Databases

The Expensive World Of Business Information

Believe it or not, you cannot find everything on Google! Have you ever done an online search and found the perfect industry report only to find that it costs over $5,000? Did you know that libraries pay for many expensive databases that could be helpful in your secondary market research? 

Industry Codes: The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS)

Find Capital

In this section you will find links to information on funding for your business. No business can function without money to pay for overhead expenses and production or product costs. It is also unusual for a business founder to have the capital to fully fund their business. The sources in this section will help you consider the best source of funding for your business.

Find Business Plans

In the page below you will find examples of successful business plans. Researching your business plan can be a very time-consuming experience, but it is an essential and worthwhile investment. Your business plan will become your most important day to day operating tool. The information resources and strategies in this guide will help you create an effective plan and increase your chances for business success.

Find Books

This section will introduce several "how-to" books on business to help you get started with your research. These books will primarily introduce you to business plan writing. These books will also introduce general business types such as retail and service business models.

Find Customer Info

  Conduct Your Customer Research

• Create your customer analysis
• Identify your target customer
• Demonstrate how your products and services satisfy your customers' needs

  Checklist

• Who is going to buy my services (e.g. couples, parents, other businesses)
• What is the future outlook of my target market?

Find Competitive Info

  Conduct Your Competitive Research

• Gather and analyze competitive information
• Define your competitive edge
• Use benchmarking tools to create your financial analysis
• Find competitor information for your own organizational plan

  Checklist

• Who are my direct or indirect competitors? Where are they located?

Find Industry Info

  Conduct Your Industry Research

• Find information specific to your industry to help you succeed
• Write your industry overview
• Start your market analysis

  Checklist

• What are NAICS or SIC codes for the real estate industry?