Entrepreneurial Toolkit

The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce

THE BUSINESS RESOURCE CENTER
AN ENTREPRENEUR’S TOOL KIT

Connections & Resources needed to grow and expand your business.

Local
Resources

Funding Small Business Marketing
Center Real Estate

Counseling

A PUBLICATION OF THE CULLMAN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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Table of Contents

Table of Contents
Introduction
Business Counseling
How To Start A Business

Business Start-up Checklist
From Idea to Personal Commitment
Needed Experience & Skill
Writing A Business Plan
Choosing A Legal Structure
Sample Documents

The Balance Sheet
The Income Statement
The Cash Flow Statement
Get Local
Legal Advice
Business License & Name Reservation
Business Incentives
Zoning Requirements
Insurance
Real Estate
Accounting
Developing a Marketing Plan
Creating Business Materials

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INTRODUCTION

In order for a small business to succeed in today’s competitive environment, they must possess the right
mix of tools, networking, and know-how. Budding entrepreneurs and small businesses looking to redefine
their position in their markets, now have a place to turn to: The Business Resource Center, located in the
Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce.

Our Resource Center offers one-on-one business counseling, seminars, business plan development,
Business License & Name Reservation information, capital funding, developing a marketing strategy, and
localized resources to our area, such as where to obtain legal advice, tax information, small business in-
surance, real estate, and many others. It is our desire to connect your business with all the vital elements
need to become fully viable in our community.

Business Counseling Checklist ness to determine where
you’re going, and how to get
The first step in addressing There are a multitude of tools there.
your business needs is to to aid in the initial creation of
schedule an initial assess- your business, such as com- Access to Capital
ment meeting to determine pleting a business checklist.
what stage your business is Steps include creating a Locating and securing nec-
currently situated, and evalu- business plan, completing a essary funding to help launch
ate the goals you’ve set for balance sheet, and income your business can be one of
your organization. These as- and cash flow statements, the most challenging obsta-
sessment meetings are choosing the structure of your cles first time business own-
scheduled for the first Tues- organization, establishing a ers can encounter. This guide
day of each month at the reliable source of funding and will provide an introduction to
Cullman Area Chamber of opening bank accounts, a variety of small business
Commerce in The Business checking local zone and tax loans, as well as provide in-
Resource Center. Please call codes along with filing for sight into what loaning organ-
(256) 734-0454 to schedule your Tax ID number, finding izations are looking for when
an appointment. suitable real estate, retaining evaluating your application.
an attorney and/or CPA,
After completing the initial choosing a record keeping Get Local
business assessment meet- method for inventory control,
ing, further counseling can be arranging for utilities, and You’ve began modeling your
scheduled with either a rep- purchasing appropriate in- business plan, and have
resentative from the Cullman surance coverage. Be sure to started making headway on
Chamber, or one of our part- visit your business checklist – but
nering agencies such as the https://www.sba.gov/starting- you may be wondering where
Alabama Small Business De- business to go for a loan, where quality
velopment Center Network realtors are located in your
(SBDC) in Huntsville. These The Business Plan community, or what insur-
meetings will also be sched- ance companies can provide
uled on the first Tuesday of Building a viable business the coverage you need? This
each month, either on loca- plan is about forming context tool kit has been locally cus-
tion at the Cullman Chamber, and developing a better un- tomized and formulated to fit
SBDC’s office in Huntsville, derstanding of your business your particular needs in the
or via Skype. goals, and defining how you Cullman community. For up-
intend to pursue them. Eval- dated business resource con-
Business Start-Up uating these goals creates tent, please contact Ben
the framework necessary to Smith at
critically examine your busi- [email protected]
or call (256) 734-0454.

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BUSINESS COUNSELING

As you start on the path toward business creation and ownership, the Cullman Area Chamber of Com-
merce has developed a network of resources and partnerships that will aid in your entrepreneurial adven-
ture. Your first step will be to meet with the Chamber’s Director of Small Business and Workforce Devel-
opment for a startup assessment questionnaire and interview. Secondly, you’ll be paired with an SBDC
counselor who can help guide you through the rugged terrain of opening or expanding your business.
Lastly, we’ll ensure your business success by scheduling a 2 year business health assessment.

Assessment Meeting

Your first step in creating or revitalizing your business will be to meet with the Chamber’s Director of
Small Business and Workforce Development. In this initial assessment meeting, you’ll discuss the feasi-
bility of your business, and your readiness to tackle the challenges opening a new business can bring.
Assessment meetings are scheduled for the 1st Tuesday of each month between the hours of 8:00AM –
12:00PM.

Counseling Sessions

Next, we’ll schedule a meeting with a counselor from our affiliate partner – The Alabama Small Business
Development Center Network (SBDC) – to help answer specific questions to your business needs. The
SBDC will work closely with you during your startup and growth to ensure you have access to the best
information regarding specialized SBA loan programs, minority assistance loans and certifications, gov-
ernment contract acquisition and more. Meetings can be acquired on the 1st Tuesday of each month be-
tween the hours of 2:00PM – 5:00PM.

Two-Year Business Health Assessment

Once you’ve established your business, developed your market, and spent two years hurdling business
startup obstacles – we’ll sit down again to examine your business vitality to determine if your target mar-
ket and goals are still squarely positioned in your organizational crosshairs. The discussion will revolve
around questions such as; what competition has entered that may pose a potential threat to your opera-
tions, have past customers transitioned into new or alternative industries to answer their needs, and is
your business adequately prepared to expand in order to capture vacant market share? Contact the
Chamber’s Director of Small Business and Workforce Development to schedule an appointment.

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Pages 2 - 12 courtesy of Alabama Small Business Development Network Guide Version 5.1

HOW TO START A BUSINESS IN ALABAMA

A. Business Start-up Checklist
B. From Idea to Personal Commitment
C. Technical and Managerial Experience Needed
D. Writing A Business Plan
E. Choosing A Legal Structure
F. Sample Documents

1. The Balance Sheet
2. The Income Statement
3. The Cash Flow Statement
G. Ten Steps to Business Success
H. Feasibility Checklist

A. BUSINESS START-UP CHECKLIST
There are a number of steps which should be taken before anyone starts a small business in
Alabama. Detailed descriptions of all the areas involved in planning a business venture are
discussed in the following sections of this book. The following checklist is designed to be used
as a general reference guide by the business owner to adequately plan and prepare for entry
into the world of entrepreneurship.

START-UP CHECKLIST
__ Prepare a written business plan complete with financial statements
__ Decide whether you wish to operate as a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation
__ Establish a source of adequate and reliable financing
__ Check on zoning ordinances
__ Select a suitable location
__ Retain an attorney and CPA, if appropriate
__ Acquire necessary licenses and permits
__ Get tax ID number and forms; follow other tax requirements
__ Choose a record keeping system and method of inventory control
__ Open bank accounts
__ Arrange for utilities, telephone and other services
__ See insurance agent for full range of coverage

B. FROM IDEA TO PERSONAL COMMITMENT
The main message of this manual is to stress the importance of prior planning and thinking
through your idea. Prior planning encourages systematic thinking by management and leads to
the development of proper controls. The result is a better overall preparedness and a more vivid
sense of the interacting responsibilities.

The first step in the process is generating your idea. This is only the very first step; many things
remain to be done before you can expect to realize and make money from the idea. At the
minimum level your ideas will need to pass several tests to determine whether or not it is an
original idea, whether the idea can be produced and distributed profitably, and whether or not
your idea can be protected. This seems simple enough until you examine the underlying
questions that must be resolved. For example, to determine the commercial merit of an idea the
following areas should be considered:

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 Legality Distribution
 Safety Perceived Functions
 Environmental Impact Existing Competition
 Societal Impact Potential Sales
 Potential Market Development Status
 Product Life Cycle Investment Costs
 Usage Learning Trend of Demand
 Product Visibility Product Line Potential
 Service Need
 Durability Promotion
 New Competition Appearance
 Functional Feasibility Price
 Production Feasibility Protection
 Stability of Demand Pay-Back Period
 Profitability Consumer/User Compatibility
 Marketing Research Product Interdependence
 Research and Development

It will take a great deal of personal commitment to turn your idea into reality. Small business
owners must be willing to work exceptionally long hours and often forego financial rewards in
the early stages of their operation. All too many businesses fail, but proper planning and
dedication will certainly increase your chances for a successful venture.

C. TECHNICAL & MANAGERIAL EXPERIENCE NEEDED
One of the most common mistakes in starting a business is trying to do so without the neces
sary training and experience. Before you start a business, you should ask yourself whether you
actually have the background, experience and training that is required. For example, a retailer
would need some expertise in management, sales and buying. The management experience
would need to include personnel, record keeping and marketing, as well as other skills.

If you do not already have this experience, how do you get it? Generally, it is best to work for a
time in a company similar to your proposed business. This gives you a closer look at what that
type of business entails without risking your investment during the learning period. Another
suggestion for gaining expertise is to take courses at your local college or university. Most area
schools offer both credit and continuing education courses. Various seminars and workshops
are also offered throughout the year.

There are many publications available that offer help and insight to many of the day-to-day
problems that a small business owner faces. The Small Business Administration issues a wide
range of management and technical publications to assist the small business owner. One of the
most useful is the Alabama Small Business Resource Guide, which is published annually and is
available from the SBA Alabama District Office, the SBA website www.sba.gov and from
SBA resource partners in Alabama including the Alabama SBDC Network, Women’s Business
Centers, and SCORE.

In addition, the Alabama Procurement Program (PTAC) and the Alabama SBDC Network
publish the Guide to Government Contracting for Alabama Small Businesses to help small
businesses in Alabama win government contracts. This guide will help you understand the world
of government contracting, what is required to pursue this fascinating business opportunity, and
if selling goods and services to the government is a viable option to grow your small business.

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The publication is free to download at the Procurement website http://al-ptac.org/guide/.
The Alabama Department of Revenue (ADOR) produces Starting A New Business – An
Educational Brochure For Alabama Taxpayers. ADOR administers over 50 different state and
local taxes that affect business and individual taxpayers. The following is a listing of the
business-related taxes that are administered by the ADOR. This overview is intended to be an
introduction to the tax requirements for businesses. The publication can be viewed at
http://www.revenue.alabama.gov/taxpayerassist/StartingANewBusiness.pdf.

D. WRITING A BUSINESS PLAN
One of the most important early steps to take in starting or expanding a business is to write a
business plan. There are three major reasons why you should take the time to create a written
business plan.

The first reason is that the process of putting a business plan together, including the thought
you put in before beginning to write the plan, forces you to take an objective, critical and unemo-
tional look at your business project in its entirety.

A second advantage that comes with having a written business plan is that the finished product,
your business plan, is an operating tool which will help you manage your business and provides
a means to measure your success.

And third, a properly prepared business plan also provides the information that must be
presented to a bank or other investors before a credit decision is made. Since many businesses
only start or expand through borrowed monies, the presentation of reliable and complete
information in a business plan is essential.

What A Bank Looks For In A Business Plan
The Business Plan is an excellent tool for bank presentations when financing is needed. A good
business plan tells the banker that the applicant has put a great deal of thought and effort into
this decision. A well-presented business plan will let the banker know that he is dealing with a
serious, well informed prospect, instilling more faith in you as an entrepreneur.
If a business plan is to be submitted to a bank, it is important to realize how a banker analyzes a
business plan and what questions a banker will ask during this analysis. A banker's job is to
assess the degree of risk in each proposed loan and to be satisfied that the loan can be re
paid by the borrower while still allowing the businesses to operate profitably. A banker does this
by analyzing a number of things:

To convince a banker or investor of the merits of a loan request, a borrower must present
complete, well organized information which addresses these and other concerns. It is important
to remember that the proper packaging of a loan proposal can be an important step in getting it
approved.

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Suggested Business Plan Outline
I. Cover Letter

A. Name of Business
B. Name of Principals
C. Address of Business
D. Telephone Number of Business
II. Statement of Purpose
A. Brief Statement of the Business Plan Objectives
III. The Business
A. Description of the Business
B. The Market
C. Competition
D. Location of the Business
E. Management
F. Personnel
G. Application and Expected Effect of Loan or Investment
H. Summary
IV. Financial Data
A. Sources and Applications of Funding
B. Capital Equipment List
C. Balance Sheet
D. Breakeven Analysis
E. Pro-Forma Income Projections (Profit & Loss Statements)

-Year Summary

Detail by Quarter, Second and Third Year

F. Pro-Forma Cash Flow

G. For an Existing Business
Analysis

V. Supporting Documents
A. Personal Resumes and Financial Statements
B. Job Descriptions
C. Credit Reports
D. Letters of Reference
E. Letters of Intent
F. Copies of Leases, Contracts and Other Relevant Legal Documents

E. CHOOSING A LEGAL STRUCTURE
Once you have decided to start a business, you must decide what type of business entity to
use. There are many legal and tax considerations which must be considered in order to make a
sound decision. These legal considerations can become very involved and it is advised that you
consult an attorney to help you determine the appropriate structure.

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There are five principle forms of business structure: the Proprietorship, the Partnership, the
Corporation, Subchapter S Corporation, and the Limited Liability Company (LLC). The
decision should be based on your specific circumstances, goals and needs. These structures,
along with their advantages and disadvantages, are listed below:

The Sole Proprietorship
The sole proprietorship is usually defined as a business which is owned and operated by one
person. To establish a sole proprietorship, you need only obtain whatever licenses you need
and begin operation.

Advantages:
formation

-making power
-to-day management

Disadvantages:
- this extends to all of the proprietor's assets including the home and

car, but may be lessened by proper insurance coverage
- the business may be terminated upon the death of the owner

-term financing
ited viewpoint and experience

The Partnership
The Uniform Partnership Act, adopted by many states, defines a partnership as "an association
of two or more persons to carry on as co-owners of a business for profit." Though not specifical-
ly required by the Act, written Articles of Partnership are customarily executed. These articles
outline the contribution by the partners into the business (whether financial, material or
managerial) and generally delineate the roles of the partners in the business relationship.

Some of the characteristics that distinguish a partnership from other forms of business
organizations are the limited life of a partnership, unlimited liability of at least one partner,
coownership of the assets, sharing of managerial duties and a sharing of the profits.

Advantages

Disadvantages
one partner

- elimination of either partner constitutes automatic dissolution of the
partnership

partnership interest

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The Corporation
The corporation is by far the most complex of the business structures. A corporation is a distinct
legal entity. That is, it is separate from the individuals who own it.
A corporation usually is formed by the authority of a state government, however in Alabama a
corporation is formed by authority of a Probate Judge. Corporations which do business in more
than one state must comply with federal laws regarding interstate commerce and with the state
laws, which may vary considerably.

The procedure ordinarily required to form a corporation is that first a subscription for capital
stock must be taken and a tentative organization created. Then, approval must be obtained from
the Judge of Probate in the county in which the corporation’s registered agent and office are
located or by the Secretary of State in the state in which the corporation is to be formed if
outside Alabama. This approval is in the form of a charter for the corporation, stating the
limitations of the particular enterprise.

Advantages

ng capital

Disadvantages

orts

- income tax on corporate net income (profit) and also on salaries and

Dividends

The Subchapter S Corporation
The Subchapter S Corporation is a legal corporation that is afforded special tax treatment under
Subchapter S of the Internal Revenue Code. Under state law, S corporations retain the normal
features of a corporation, including limited liability, but for federal tax purposes they are treated
much like a partnership.

The S Corporation is absolved from payment of taxes; hence the stockholders report corporate
income, loss, deductions and credits on their individual tax returns. In most all other aspects, the
S Corporation operates in compliance with state and federal laws relating to corporations, just
as,a regular corporation.

Advantages

- profits pass through the corporation untaxed, but are
taxed as individual stockholder income, loss, deductions and credits.

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Disadvantages The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce
e than 80% of any other corporation

status

LLC’s and LLP’s
The Alabama Limited Liability Company Act (93-724), passed in May 1993 by the Alabama
Legislature, provides for the formation of Limited Liability Companies. The Act was amended
effective January 1, 2011. If properly structured, an Alabama Limited Liability Company (LLC)
will offer the beneficial tax status of a partnership and provide all of its members with limited
liability. It is treated like a corporation for limited liability purposes, but for federal tax purposes
it is treated as a partnership.

A summary of the features of the Limited Liability Company (LLC) as well as the Limited
Liability Partnership (LLP) is available at the web address below.
42BFor more information, go to HUhttp://www.sos.state.al.us/BusinessServices/LLC.aspxUH.

Procedures for Incorporation
The following procedures apply to the formation of an Alabama domestic for-profit corporation
under Title 10A, Chapter 2, Code of Alabama, 1975, as last amended.

1. The proposed name of the corporation must be reserved with the Business Entities Division
of the Office of the Secretary of State. If the proposed name is available, a Certificate of
Name Reservation will be issued. This requirement may be accomplished by completing a
Name Reservation Request Form For Domestic Entities available at www.sos.alabama.gov
under the Business Services tab or by filing for the name reservation online at the same web
address. Alabama law requires that the name contain the word “corporation” or
“incorporated” or an abbreviation of one such word. Additionally, there is a fee for the
certificate, which must be requested through the website. The cost is $27 for subscribers and
$28 for nonsubscribers.

2. After receiving the Certificate of Name Reservation, the Certificate of Formation may be
filed. The necessary forms can be obtained and answered by going to www.sos.alabama.gov
and clicking on the Business Services tab and the Business Forms link in the Quick Links
box. Many questions are answered by the information provided under various entity types
under the Business Services page on the website. If you have questions that are not answered
on the website contact:

Office of the Secretary of State
Business Services Division
P.O. Box 5616

Montgomery, Alabama 36103-5616
(334) 242-5324

http://www.sos.alabama.gov/BusinessServices/Default.aspx

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F. SAMPLE DOCUMENTS

THE BALANCE SHEET

The Balance Sheet is a measure of the solvency of the business and the degree of the owner's investment, which, in
the last analysis, is the “cushion” that protects creditors. Illustrated below is a typical balance sheet format (applicable

to any type of business).

Name of Company

Balance Sheet As Of ___________________

CURRENT ASSETS: $ _________
Cash on Hand and in Banks _________
Accounts Receivable _________
Notes Receivable, Trade _________
Notes Receivable, Other _________
Inventory _________
Marketable Securities _________
Other Current Assets _________
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS:

LONG-TERM ASSETS: _________
Land, Land improvements, Buildings _________
Machinery & Equipment _________
Other Assets (attach list if needed) _________
Deferred, Prepaid, Expenses _________
Intangible Assets _________
TOTAL LONG-TERM ASSETS: _________
TOTAL ASSETS:

CURRENT LIABILITIES: _________
Notes Payable, Banks _________
Notes Payable, Other _________
Accounts Payable, Current _________
Accounts Payable, Past Due _________
Accrued Federal, State Income Taxes _________
Other Accrued Expenses _________
Current Portion Long-Term Debt _________
Current Portion Long-Term Lease _________
Other Current Liabilities _________
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES:

LONG-TERM LIABILITIES: _________
Mortgage Debt due after 1 year _________
Equipment Debt due after 1 year _________
Lease Agreement beyond 1 year _________
Other Long-Term Debt _________
TOTAL LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:

NET WORTH: _________
Capital Account (Corporate Only) _________
Preferred Stock _________
Common Stock _________
Capital Surplus _________
Retained Earnings _________
TOTAL NET WORTH: _________
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET WORTH:

NOTE: In order to complete the Balance Sheet properly, Total Assets must equal Total Liability plus Net Worth.

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THE INCOME STATEMENT

The Income Statement (Profit and Loss) records all income and expenses of the business during a specified time
period and is the accepted method of determining profits and losses. The Internal Revenue Service requires all busi-
nesses to submit this report at the end of each year.

Profit and Loss Statement

From: __________________________ to ________________________

Sales or Gross Receipts (1) __________

Less Cost of Goods Sold (2) __________

Gross Profit __________

Less Operating Expenses (3) __________
Rent __________
Depreciation __________
Repairs & Maintenance __________
Salaries & Wages __________
Payroll Taxes & Fringe Benefits __________
Taxes, Licenses & Fees __________
Insurance __________
Accounting, Legal and Professional Fees __________
Bad Debts __________
Telephone __________
Utilities __________
Supplies __________
Security __________
Auto and Truck __________
Advertising and Promotion __________
Interest __________
Miscellaneous

Total Expenses __________

Net Profit Before Taxes __________

Federal Income Taxes (Corporation Only) __________

Net Profit (or Loss) (4) __________

(1) Sales or Gross Receipts - represents total amount of money that the business makes from the sale of its
merchandise, less discounts and refunds.

(2) Cost of Goods Sold- the cost of the merchandise that the business sells. These costs differ with each
type of business.

(3) Operating Expenses - all business costs other than the costs of the merchandise.

(4) Net Profit (loss) - sales less cost of goods sold less operating expenses less tax.

By combining the monthly cash flow reports with an income statement for the year and your beginning and ending
balance sheet, you will produce a statement of annual cash flow from operations. The monthly cash flow statement
shows your need for seasonal borrowing, while the annual cash flow from operations shows the need for longer-term
funds.

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THE CASH FLOW STATEMENT

The Cash Flow Statement is the most critical planning tool for a new or growing business. It shows how much cash
will be needed, when it will be needed and where it will come from. It budgets monthly cash needs and shows the
flow of cash into the business from sales and collection of receivables, as well as the flow of cash out of the business
through payment of expenses and loans over a period of time. The banker uses this information to analyze possible
shortfalls of cash and as a guide to borrowing needs. Your statement should show Cash Flow over the full twelve-
month period. This Cash Flow Statement (reprinted from SBA Management Aid 1.001 the ABC's of Borrowing) repre-
sents a cash flow statement for a three-month period.

Cash Budget

(For three months, ending March 31, 20 _____)

January Actual February March
Budget Budget Actual Budget Actual

Expected Cash Receipts

1. Cash sales ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
2. Collections on accounts receivable ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
3. Other income ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
4. Total cash receipts ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______

Expected Cash Payments

5. Raw materials ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
6. Payroll ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
7. Other factory expenses ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______

(including maintenance) ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
8. Advertising ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
9. Selling expense ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
10. Administrative expense
______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
(including salary of owner-manager) ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
11. New plant and equipment
12. Other payments ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______

(taxes, including estimated income tax;
repayment of loans; interest; etc.)
13. Total cash payments

14. Expected Cash Balance ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
______
(at beginning of the month) ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
______
15. Cash increase or decrease ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______

(item 4 minus item 13) ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
______ ______ ______ ______
16. Expected cash balance at end of month ______

(item 14 plus item 15)

17. Desired working cash balance ______

18. Short-term loans needed ______

(item 17 minus item 16, if item

17 is larger)

19. Cash available for dividends, capital

cash expenditures, and/or short

investments (item 16 minus item 17,

if item 16 is larger than item 17) ______ ______ ______ ______ ______

Capital Cash

20. Cash available ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
______ ______ ______ ______ ______
(item 19 after deducting dividends, etc.) ______ ______ ______ ______ ______

21. Desired capital cash ______

(item 11, new plant equipment)

22. Long-term loans needed ______

(item 21 less 20, if item 21

is larger than item 20)

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Begin with the US Small Business Administration’s website to write a business plan, get assistance and training, ap-
ply for your Federal Tax ID number, and more! https://www.sba.gov/starting-business

GET LOCAL

This guide will connect you to Cullman businesses and organizations that will facilitate your establishment in this
community. While this guide is meant to provide each business with the tools it needs to grow and thrive, keep in
mind that each business has varying needs, and each business startup pathway will never be exactly the same.
Check back intermittently for assistance and additional information.

A. LEGAL ADVICE

These law offices provide guidance for all your small business needs, such as which type (Corporation, LLC etc.) of
business entity to establish.

St. John & St. John, LLC Bland, Harris & McClellan, P.C. Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 734-3542 (256) 734-4040
Emily Niezer Johnston, LLC
108 3rd Street SE http://www.bhmlawfirm.com (256) 775-9261
Cullman, AL 35055 401 2nd Avenue SW
Suite 103 409 First Avenue, SW
Jackson & Williams Cullman, AL 35055 Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 739-2546
Berry, Berry, Little & Brunner McLeroy Law Firm, LLC
416 1st Avenue SE (256) 734-6330 (256) 734-6994
Cullman, AL 35055 405 2nd Ave SW
http://www.mcleroyfirm.com
Fuller, Willingham, Fuller & Carter, Cullman, AL 35055 1626 First Avenue, SW
LLC Cullman, AL 35055
Parker and Parker P.C. Attorneys
(256) 734-2023 At Law Sandra K. Watts, LLC
http://www.fandwlaw.com (256) 841-5700
(256) 775-4444 700 2nd Ave SW
413 1st Avenue SW 215 Main Ave., SW
Cullman, AL 35055 Cullman, AL 35055 Cullman, AL 35055

Knight & Knight, LLC Sara Baker, Attorney at Law Griffith, Lowry & Meherg LLC
(256) 734-0456 (256) 737-7181 (256) 734-0458

http://www.knight- 100 5th Street SE http://www.griffithlowry.com
knightattorneys.com Cullman, AL 35055 409 1st Avenue SW
210 Second Street, SE Cullman, AL 35055
Cullman, AL 35055 R. Champ Crocker, LLC
(256) 739-5005 Zeb Little Law, LLC
Thompson & Thompson Attorneys (256) 775-7707
at Law http://www.champcrocker.com
207 2nd Avenue SE http://www.zeblittlelaw.com
(256) 734-4591 Cullman, AL 35055 420 2nd Avenue SW
http://www.thompsonattorneys.com Ste. 203
C. Blake West, Attorney at Law Cullman, AL 35055
421 2nd Ave., SW (256) 734-0026
Cullman, AL 35055 Bradley Arant Boult Cummings
"1701 Main Ave SW LLP
Smith & Smith LLP Cullman, AL 35055"
(256) 734-4721 (205) 521-8899
Law Office of Melvin Hasting, LLC http://www.babc.com
328 1st Avenue SE (256) 736-2230 One Federal Place
Cullman, AL 35055 1819 Fifth Avenue North
http://www.hastinglawfirm.com Birmingham, AL 35203
407 2nd Ave SW

B. FILING FOR BUSINESS LICENSE & NAME RESERVATION

To reserve your company name, first visit the Alabama Secretary of State website for domestic entities at
http://www.sos.alabama.gov/businessservices/llc.aspx. Once you’ve completed your online name reservation at the
Secretary of State’s website, take your Name Reservation Receipt to the Cullman County Probate Office at the Coun-
ty Courthouse with check payments for Alabama Secretary of State ($100.00), and the Probate Office ($51.00)

Business Licenses for Cullman City:
http://cullmancity.org/information_links/2013%20Business%20License%20Form.pdf

Business Licenses for Cullman County:
http://www.cullmancourts.org/assets/probatecourt/PDFs/business-license-application.pdf

Funding & Capital | Real Estate | Counseling | Marketing | Minority Support | Local Resources

The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce

C. CAPITAL FUNDING & FINANCING

As you complete initial planning and research, you’ll need to begin considering how you’ll find access to funding for

your startup. First, begin your funding pursuit by examining resources such as:

 Friends & Family
 Credit Cards (Lines-of-Credit)
 Crowdfunding

https://www.sba.gov/blogs/three-popular-start-financing-options

SBA approved loans, while issued by third party approved lenders, are guaranteed by the US Small Business Admin-
istration as viable financing options for startups and small business expansions.

|Commercial Loaning Organizations|

Southern Development Council, Operating Loans, and Improvement Business Banking, Business First
Inc. Loans. Checking, Business Interest Check-

http://sdcinc.org/ BBVA Compass ing, Business Savings Account,
The SDC will partner with local https://www.bbvacompass.com/bu Business Money Market, and Busi-
banks to develop an appropriate
SBA loan for your small business. siness/lending/ ness Loan options.
Providing Convenience Lines of
Peoples Bank of Alabama Credit, Traditional Lines of Credit, Regions Bank
https://www.peoplesbankal.com/b Business Credit Cards, Business https://www.regions.com/small_b
Term Loans/Equipment Loans,
usiness-banking.php Commercial Real Estate Loan, and usiness/fin_sba_loans.rf
Business Lines-of-Credit, Term SBA (Small Business Administration) Lines of Credit, Leasing, SBA Loans,
Loans, Construction Lines and
Loans, and SBA loan options. Loans. Visa Business Credit Cards, Ser-
vicemember Rights, Industry Solu-
Premier Bank of the South Wells Fargo
https://www.premierbankofthesou https://www.wellsfargo.com/biz/lo tions, and Regions CashCOR.

th.com/Products.htm ans-and-lines/loans/sba/ Traditions Bank
Flexible and Customized Financing, SBA Lending options, Loans and
Citizens Bank and Trust
Local Loan Decisions, Fast Re- Credit, Insurance http://www.citizensbanktrust.com/
sponse To Your Needs, Short Term
EvaBank business/loans-credit
And Long Term Financing, and https://www.evabank.com/small- Business Loans, Business Lines of
Small Business Administration business-small-bus-checking.htm
Offering Small Business Checking Credit, Commercial Real Estate
Loans. Loans, and Business Credit Cards.
Accounts and a variety of Small
Alabama Farm Credit Business Loaning options. Woodforest National Bank
https://www.alabamafarmcredit.co https://www.woodforest.com/Busi
First Community Bank of Cullman
m/loans http://www.fcbcullman.com/busin ness-Banking/Products/Loans
Specializing in agricultural financing Lines of Credit, Small Business Pre-
in Real Estate, Agribusiness Loans, ess/business-banking ferred, and Merchant Select Com-
Equipment Financing, Poultry Loans,
mercial Lending.

If you are a Chamber Member and should be listed on this list, please contact Magan Bartlett at mbart-
[email protected]*

D. BUSINESS INCENTIVES & TAX INFORMATION

Depending on the size and impact of your business, you may be eligible for tax incentive discounts. For more infor-
mation, contact the Cullman Economic Development Agency to determine if your company qualifies for Income Tax
Capital Credits or Property and Sales Tax Abatement.

Cullman Economic Development Agency
(256) 739-1891

http://www.cullmaneda.org/doing-business/taxes-incentives

For more information regarding your status as an Alabama Taxpayer, the Alabama Department of Revenue has de-
veloped a comprehensive and educational guide for new business owners. This brochure can be viewed by visiting
http://www.ador.state.al.us/taxpayerassist/newbus.pdf.

Funding & Capital | Real Estate | Counseling | Marketing | Minority Support | Local Resources

The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce

F. ZONING REQUIREMENTS

Determine if your prospective business location and facilities are up to the Municipal Code of the City of Cullman by
visiting https://www2.municode.com/library/al/cullman/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=COOR_CH62ZO.

G. INSURANCE

Find your best insurance coverage for your small business by researching these Chamber member organizations and
agents.

Nationwide Insurance-- Martha Rookis Agency, Inc State Farm Insurance-- Lesley
Burchell Agency http://www.rookisagency.com/ Hyde
http://agency.nationwide.com/mar 3912 3rd Avenue South Birmingham, http://www.lesleyhyde.com/
tha-burchell-in-cullman-al Alabama 35222 307 2nd Ave., NW Cullman, AL
The Burchell Agency provides pro- 35055-
tection for the people you love and Physicians Mutual Life, Health and
the things you enjoy. Our dedicated Wealth Planning Warnke Insurance, Inc.
and well trained staff can meet your https://www.physiciansmutual.com/c https://representatives.countryfinanci
insurance needs. s/home/home.html al.com/don.warnke
200 2nd Avenue SE Cullman, AL One Perimeter Park South Suite 315 1011 4th Street SW Cullman, AL
35055 N Birmingham, AL 35243 35055

Byars Wright, Inc. Knight-Free Insurance Agency, ALFA Insurance-Buddy Kelley
http://www.byarswright.com/ Inc. https://www.alfainsurance.com/
1112 Main Street Gardendale, AL http://www.knight-freeinsurance.com/ 307 Main Avenue NW Cullman, AL
35071 410 1st Avenue SE Suite 100 Cull- 35055
man, AL 35055
State Farm Insurance - Bill Floyd Allstate Insurance Company
https://www.statefarm.com/agent/US Bob Chaney and Associates, Inc. https://www.allstate.com/
/AL/Cullman/Bill-Floyd- 202 1st Ave NE Suite H Cullman, AL 1726 Cherokee Avenue SW Suite C
8XLT31YS000 35055- Cullman, AL 35055
409 6th Street SW Cullman, AL
35055 Jamie Speakman Alfa Insurance- Ethan Ponder
1101 4th Avenue NE 307 Main Ave. N.W. Cullman, AL
Freedom Insurance, The Gloria Cullman, AL 35055 35055
Williams Agency (256) 347-7142
http://www.freedomagency.net/ McPherson Insurance Agency
450 County Road 1320 Cullman, AL Katherine Morgan - State Farm 1619 3rd Street NE Cullman, AL
35055 Insurance & Financial Services 35055
http://www.insurecullman.com/
State Farm Insurance-- Shirley 909 Fisher Street SW Cullman, AL Alfa Insurance - Jeremy Scott
Quattlebaum 35055 216 Compass Way SW Cullman, AL
https://www.statefarm.com/agent/US 35055
/AL/Cullman/Shirley-Quattlebaum- Premier Insurance Agency, LLC
KPHSS1YS000 http://www.premierinsal.com/ State Farm Insurance - Tonya
905 2nd Avenue SW Cullman, AL 909 Graham St. Suite A Cullman, AL Wilson
35055 35055 1624 1st Ave SW Cullman, AL
35055

I. REAL ESTATE NuVision Real Estate ERA Waldrop Real Estate
3259 AL HWY 157 Ste G Cullman, 312 1st Avenue SE Cullman, AL
Cullman Elite Realty, LLC AL 35058 35055
103 3rd St SW Suite B Cullman, AL (256) 841-6155 (256) 737-9738
35055
256-841-6888 KD Williams Enterprises Culpepper Real Estate, Inc.
20 County Road 1124 VINEMONT, 601 7th Avenue, SW Cullman, AL
Drinkard Development, Inc. Alabama 35179 35055
1630 Town Square Shopping Center 256-297-5218 (256) 739-1389
Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 739-1815 Eidson, H D J Capital Partners Cullman Association of REAL-
1205 1st Avenue SW Cullman, AL TORS, Inc.
Happy Homes Real Estate 35055 319 2nd Avenue SW Cullman, AL
221 B 2nd Avenue SE Cullman, AL (256) 734-7216 35055
35055 (256) 739-9343
(256) 737-3050

Funding & Capital | Real Estate | Counseling | Marketing | Minority Support | Local Resources

The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce

Wendy Childers - Weichert Real- Alatex, LLC Coldwell Banker - Hill Real Estate
tors Carter & Company 111 4th Ave NE Cullman, AL 35055 204 4th Avenue SE Cullman, AL
403 4th Avenue SW Cullman, AL (256) 709-1126 35055
35055 (256) 734-1504
(256) 737-9611 Krout Properties
1221 Katherine St. NW Cullman, AL Advantage Real Estate
Weichert Realtors - Carter & Com- 35055 401 5th Street SW Cullman, AL
pany (256) 734-7914 35055
403 4th Avenue SW Cullman, AL (256) 339-3360
35055 REMAX BJC Real Estate, Inc.
(256) 737-9611 1400 AL Highway 69 S Hanceville, Rita Fromhold - Cullman Elite
AL 35077 Realty
RealtySouth - Cullman (256) 287-9140 103 B 3rd Street SW Cullman, AL
309 13th Street NE Cullman, AL 35055
35055 Doyle Real Estate (256) 841-6888
(256) 775-6620 308 Graham St., SW Cullman, AL
35055- Smith Lake Marina & Resort
Brother and Sister, LLC (256) 739-1444 175 County Road 312 Cullman, AL
213 Fairway Dr. Cullman, AL 35055 35057
(256) 739-5595 Newbanks,Inc. (256) 737-7131
5120 Selkirk Drive Suite 210 Bir-
Hagan Real Estate mingham, AL 35242 Jim Phillips -- Coldwell Banker Hill
221 3rd Avenue SE Cullman, AL 2059807495 Real Estate
35055 68 County Road 1313 Vinemont, AL
(256) 734-1676 35179
(256) 734-1504

J. ACCOUNTING Sandra's Tax Service 35055-2937
8364 AL Highway 157 Cullman, AL (256) 737-0532
Jeb Williamson, CPA, LLC 35057
418 1st Ave SE Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 739-2923 Dunn Right Taxes & Bookkeeping
(256) 734-7393 Service LLC
CRI - Carr, Riggs & Ingram 812 9th Ave SW Cullman, Alabama
Fine Accounting 3700 Colonnade Parkway Suite 300 35055
PO Box 2400 Cullman, AL 35056- Birmingham, AL 35243 256-734-3500
2400 (205) 933-7822
(256) 338-1864 Barnett Tax Service
Warren, Averett LLC 408 Main Ave SW Cullman, AL
Fricke, Sweatmon & Miller, PC 501 5th Street SW Cullman, AL 35055
412 2nd Avenue NE Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 734-6911
35055 (256) 841-3020
(256) 739-0955 Connie Phillips Purcell - CPA
Segroves & Brewer, PC 1801 Cherokee Avenue SW Suite C
Key, Denise G. CPA 301 Elizabeth Street NE Cullman, AL Cullman, AL 35055
111 5th Street S.E. Cullman, AL (256) 739-3114
35055
(256) 734-4652

K. DEVELOPING A MARKETING PLAN

Begin by researching marketing methods that you can apply to your business by answering questions regarding your
target customers, competitors, marketing goals, marketing budget and others here.

https://www.sba.gov/blogs/do-you-have-marketing-plan
If you represent a portion of Retail that attracts out-of-town customers, chances are you are tourism bases retail.
Read this guide to build your tourism retail marketing. (Link needed, from Cecelia)

Funding & Capital | Real Estate | Counseling | Marketing | Minority Support | Local Resources

The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce

Complete free Marketing Courses online at the SBA’s Learning Center here:

https://www.sba.gov/tools/sba-learning-center/search/everything/marketing

Attend free seminars hosted by the Chamber regarding Small Business marketing and how to best utilize the tools
you have available. For a list of upcoming seminars related to small business, please contact the Chamber at (256)
734-0454.

Finally, schedule a Ribbon Cutting with the Chamber – we’ll even bring the Mayor! Contact Magan Bartlett
([email protected]) at the Chamber to schedule.

L. CREATING BUSINESS MATERIALS

As your business nears opening day, it’s important to develop resources to aid in daily operations. These companies
can help in the preparation of all your marketing and promotion materials.

The Community Shopper’s Guide Em.D.Design Creative Design & Screen Printing
(256) 734-1532 (256) 636-1724 (256) 734-7242

Cullman Quick Copy Sassy Southern Printing Cullman Sign & Banner
(256) 739-0699 (256) 507-0510 (256) 737-9811

Business Solutions of Cullman Modernistic Printers Inc. Quality I/N Signs & Outdoor Ad-
(256) 736-2360 (256) 734-3523 vertising
(256) 734-9030
Business & Industry Solutions Alabama Web Press, Inc.
(256) 739-2872 (256) 734-5104 The Awards Palace, LLC
(256) 737-8787

The Final Touch
(256) 775-6877

Funding & Capital | Real Estate | Counseling | Marketing | Minority Support | Local Resources