How to Start a Business in Doniphan County

Follow these simple steps to become Doniphan County's next entrepreneur!

1. Write a business plan

Need help? Connect with Teresa McAnerney at Northeast Kansas Enterprise Facilitation or Washburn Small Business Development Center and ask for Mary Ann Reiderer for free and confidential business coaching! These consultants will walk you through this entire list of things to know and even include discussions on insurance, being bonded, understanding employer responsibilities, legal structure, sales tax and more.

2. Get business assistance and training

• Does your occupation require a degree or special certifications? Start your search here.
• Connect with Teresa McAnerney at Northeast Kansas Enterprise Facilitation for free business coaching.
• Contact Washburn Small Business Development Center and ask for Mary Ann Reiderer for free business consultations.

3. Choose a business location

Doniphan County has several vibrant towns and vast countryside to start your business. Contact Doniphan County's Economic Development office for specific location availabilities. 

4. Determine the legal structure of your business

Do you need to form an LLC or Coporation? Talk with your laywer or find one locally here. 

5. Get a Tax Identification Number

Register for state and local taxes through the Kansas Department of Revenue. 

6. Finance your business

• There are several banks in Doniphan County. Find one here.
• Other Business Financing Resources
  • Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Rebate Program
    Contact: Doniphan County Appraiser office
    This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
    785-985-3977
  • Mo-Kan SBA 504 Loan
    Contact: Jon Ecker
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    816-233-3144
  • Northeast Kansas Revolving Loan Fund Program: Glacial Hills Resource Conservation & Development
    Contact: Gary Satter
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    785-608-8801
  • Kansas Women’s Business Center
    Contact: Brande Stitt
    This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
    kansaswbc.com
    913-492-5922
  • Network Kansas: Matching Loan Programs
    Contact: Network Kansas
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    networkkansas.com
    877-521-8600
  • Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
    Contact: MaryAnn Riederer
    This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
    www.washburnsmallbusiness.com
    785-207-0267
  • USDA programs
    • Rural Engery for America Program Engery Audit & Renewable Energy Development Assistance Grants
    • Rural Energy for America Program Renewable Energy Systems & Energy Efficiency Improvement Loans & Grants
    • Value Added Producer Grants in Kansas
    • Local Food Promotion Program

7. Network and Connect with other local resources

Consider joining the Doniphan County Chamber or Commerce and meet other local business and community leaders. Find more contacts here.

8. Promote your business

• Doniphan County area businesses have the opportunity to be promoted and featured on the county website through the Doniphan Proud program. View 11 reasons why you should feature your business on the Doniphan County website here!
• Also consider starting a Facebook page or company website.
• Don't forget to reach out to the Doniphan County Chamber of Commerce for a free membership for your first year in business and a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony.