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1. How do I know if my business will qualify as a minority-owned business (MBE)? How would I get a minority certification?

MBE Certification is the process by which a business is verified as being minority owned according to the criteria set forth by the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC). The NMSDC's criteria state that in order to be certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), a business must be at least 51% controlled and managed by racial or ethnic minorities who are also U.S. Citizens. Small businesses seeking minority business certification should contact the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council. The Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDC) is a non-profit organization committed to driving the economic growth of minority-owned businesses. The MMSDC is located at:
100 River Place
Suite 300
Detroit, MI 48207

Phone: 313-873-3200

Minority certification is also available through either:
Detroit Department of Transportation (PDF)
1301 E Warren
Detroit, MI 48207

Phone: 313-833-7695

Wayne County
500 Griswold
15th Floor
Detroit, MI 48226

Phone: 313-224-502

2. How do I qualify as a women-owned business?

The Women's Business Enterprise Council - Great Lakes (WBEC-GL) serves as a partner with the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) to assist women business owners with opportunities for women's business certification and access to private and government markets.

For information on becoming a certified woman owned business, contact the The Michigan Women's Marketplace, or see the Small Business Administration Women's Business Centers in Michigan information sheet (PDF).

3. How do I register my business name, or form an LLC? Do I need a Michigan License or permit to open a business?

Lisa McComb, Executive Director of the Otsego County Economic Alliance can assist businesses with registration and LLC information. Contact Lisa at 989-731-0288 or her assistant Brandy at 989-731-0287.

4. If I start my business in my home, what will I need?

Contact the community where the business will be located and see if the zoning laws permit it. Starting a business at home is the same as starting a business anywhere. For questions regarding starting a business at home in Otsego County, contact the Planning and Zoning office at 989-731-7400 or visit the Planning and Zoning page.

5. What is a DBA? Where can I get one? How much does it cost?

A "Doing Business As" or DBA, protects one's business name within County limits. A DBA can be purchased at the County Clerk's Office for $10.

6. What is an Employer Identification Number and a Tax Identification Number? How do I get one for my business?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number (TIN), and is used to identify a business entity. Generally, businesses need an EIN. You may apply for an EIN in various ways, including online at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website.

7. Where do I get zoning information?

Zoning information comes from the city, village or township where your business is located. You can find zoning information for Otsego County by contacting the Planning and Zoning office at 989-731-7400 or visiting the Planning and Zoning page.

8. Where do I register for business taxes?

You can register easily online.

9. Where is my local Chamber of Commerce?

Otsego County Chamber of Commerce
319 W Main Street
Gaylord, MI 49735