Helpful Resources for Entrepreneurs, Startups, Nonprofits, and Small Businesses

Starting and growing a business requires access to reliable information and trusted resources. The Natari Firm Business Resource Center is designed to help entrepreneurs, nonprofit organizations, and small business owners find important government agencies, business tools, funding resources, and educational information all in one place.

Whether you’re registering a new business, applying for grants, building business credit, seeking certifications, or looking for government contracting opportunities, these resources can help you navigate each stage of your business journey.

While many of these resources are free to use, understanding which ones apply to your business can sometimes be confusing. Natari Firm is here to help you understand the process and provide professional business support when you need assistance.

Business Registration & Government Resources

https://www.irs.gov/businesses/employer-identification-numberEmployer Identification Number (EIN)

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a federal tax identification number issued by the IRS. Most businesses need an EIN to hire employees, open a business bank account, apply for licenses, and file certain tax documents.

Common Uses

  • Starting a business
  • Opening a business bank account
  • Hiring employees
  • Applying for business licenses
  • Filing federal taxes

Small Business Administration (SBA)

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides programs, educational resources, funding information, and counseling designed to help small businesses start, grow, and succeed.

The SBA offers:

  • Business startup guidance
  • Loan information
  • Business education
  • Government contracting resources
  • Veteran business programs
  • Women’s business resources

SAM.gov Registration

The System for Award Management (SAM.gov) is the official federal registration system for businesses and organizations interested in doing business with the U.S. government.

Businesses seeking many federal contracts or grants may be required to maintain an active SAM registration.

Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)

The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) replaced the former DUNS Number as the primary identifier for organizations registered in SAM.gov.

A UEI may be required for:

  • Federal grants
  • Federal contracts
  • Government registrations
  • Certain nonprofit funding opportunities

DUNS Number (Historical Information)

The DUNS Number was previously issued by Dun & Bradstreet and served as a unique identifier for businesses applying for many government grants and contracts. Although the federal government now uses the UEI system, many private organizations and lenders still recognize DUNS information for business credit purposes.

Business Credit Resources

Building business credit can help businesses establish financial credibility and separate business finances from personal finances.

Business credit may assist with:

  • Vendor relationships
  • Business financing opportunities
  • Equipment purchases
  • Commercial credit accounts
  • Business growth planning

Business Certifications

Business certifications may help eligible businesses qualify for government contracting opportunities, supplier diversity programs, and other business development initiatives.

Examples include:

  • Minority-Owned Business Certification
  • Woman-Owned Business Certification
  • Veteran-Owned Business Certification
  • Small Disadvantaged Business Certification
  • HUBZone Certification

Government Contracting Resources

Government agencies purchase products and services from qualified businesses every year.

Businesses interested in government contracting should become familiar with:

  • SAM Registration
  • NAICS Codes
  • PSC Codes
  • UEI Registration
  • Capability Statements
  • Procurement Opportunities

NAICS Codes

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) assigns numerical codes that identify the type of work your business performs.

Many government agencies, lenders, and organizations request your NAICS code during registrations and applications.

CAGE Code

Businesses registered through SAM.gov may receive a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code, which is commonly used when working with the federal government.

Grants & Funding Resources

Businesses and nonprofit organizations may explore funding opportunities through:

  • Federal grant programs
  • State grant programs
  • Local grant opportunities
  • Private foundations
  • Corporate giving programs

Each funding opportunity has its own eligibility requirements and application process.

Business Planning Resources

Planning is an important part of building a successful business.

Helpful planning resources include:

  • Business plans
  • Financial projections
  • Marketing plans
  • Cash flow planning
  • Startup checklists
  • Business goal setting

Natari Firm offers professional assistance with business plans, strategic planning, and business organization.

Helpful Business Checklists

Before launching your business, consider completing the following:

✓ Register your business

✓ Obtain an EIN

✓ Open a business bank account

✓ Apply for necessary licenses and permits

✓ Select your NAICS Code

✓ Register for SAM.gov (if applicable)

✓ Obtain required certifications

✓ Create a business plan

✓ Organize bookkeeping

✓ Develop a marketing strategy

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Business Resource Center free to use?

Yes. The educational information provided in our Resource Center is available to help business owners better understand common business requirements and available resources.

Does every business need an EIN?

Many businesses do, but requirements vary depending on your business structure, employees, and tax obligations.

Is a DUNS Number still required?

For most federal registrations, the UEI has replaced the DUNS Number. However, some private organizations may still reference DUNS information.

What is a NAICS Code?

A NAICS Code identifies the primary business activities your company performs and is commonly used during business registrations, certifications, government contracting, and financing applications.

Can Natari Firm help me with these registrations?

Yes. Natari Firm provides business support services that may include assistance with business registrations, certifications, organizational documents, grant preparation, business planning, and other administrative business services.

Additional Helpful Resources

  • Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
  • U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
  • SAM.gov
  • SBA Learning Center
  • SCORE Business Mentoring
  • Women’s Business Centers
  • Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)
  • Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (APEX Accelerators)
  • U.S. Census Bureau Business Resources
  • State Business Registration Agencies
  • Local Chambers of Commerce

Need assistance navigating these resources? Natari Firm is here to help you understand the process, organize your business documents, and identify the services that best support your business goals. Contact us today to learn more about our business support services.