Starting a New Business

Evaluate A Business Opportunity

When evaluating a business opportunity, successful entrepreneurs and business purchasers have an array of options. The internet, a local library, government publications, white papers, and similar publications all hold a wealth of information. Interviews with industry professionals can also add insight. Cuba City is happy to help you in the business planning process and to bring you into contact with the appropriate resources available to you in your endeavor. Please contact Bob Jones at Cuba City City Hall at 608-744-2152.

There is no substitute for careful research and planning when considering a business opportunity.

The U.S Small Business Administration (SBA) provides the following resources and advice to help you evaluate potential business ventures:

• Find a Mentor
• Finance a Start-Up
• Name Your Business
• Get Licenses and Permits
• Lease Equipment
• Create Your Business Plan
• Buy a Business
• Buy a Franchise
• Protect Your Ideas
• Pick a Location

Business Organization

Before starting your business you will need to decide what type of business organization is best for you. Tax and non-tax factors may influence your organizational choice along with the importance of protecting your personal assets. Business organizations include sole proprietorship, partnerships, corporations, professional organizations, cooperative associations, and business trusts. Legal, tax, and accounting professionals are all good resources to consult when determining what business organization best fits your needs. In addition, the Wisconsin Entrepreneur's Toolkit is an excellent one-stop-shop for those looking to start a business. The SBA also has valuable information and resources about choosing a business structure.

Your Business Plan

A business plan is your road map to a successful business venture. Many times prospective business owners skip this all-important step. However, most often lenders and creditors will require a business plan prior to issuing loans or lines of credit to your business. Time spent developing a realistic and thorough business plan will reap dividends in future years. The establishment of a business plan will help you clarify and scrutinize plans for operational and financial management and marketing of your business. While creating a business plan may seem intimidating at first, please know there are abundant templates available for download free of charge. Plan background and templates available through the SBA website are especially useful.

Business Licenses & Permits – International, Federal, and State

Oftentimes businesses are required to secure licenses and/or permits prior to becoming operational. Depending on the scope of your business and the location in which it operates international, federal, state, or local rules can apply. The SBA again provides an excellent resource for review of potentially applicable international and federal regulations. In addition, you can check the Wisconsin Department of Revenue's website for a listing of applicable state regulations.

Business Licenses & Permits – City of Cuba City

The City of Cuba City does not require business licenses or permits. However, a few businesses are required to obtain a permit.  For example, on and off-sale liquor establishments must obtain a liquor license. The sale of tobacco products requires permits from the City of Cuba City. Sale of merchandise or other items door to door or in a public area is prohibited in Cuba City, unless a transient merchant permit is obtained.

Zoning & Building Permits

Brick and mortar businesses, including home occupations, may require zoning approval and/or building approval. Please visit our Building Permit Information page for more information.