Business.gov Unveils New State and Local Features

January 8, 2008; 08:25 AM

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Business.gov, the official business link to the U.S. government, has launched a new Google-based custom search and expanded content that make it easier for small business owners to find essential information needed to run their operations, including forms, licenses, permits and regulatory information from federal, state and local governments.

The new search capabilities have been tailored to meet the needs of the nation’s small businesses using the Google Custom Search Engine service. The new search engine filters the Google.com index for results business owners can trust.

Business.gov has also expanded the scope of its content. Business owners now have access to over 8,000 state, territory, county, and city government web sites providing information on starting and managing a business while complying with regulations from all levels of government.

“These expanded services are additional steps we’re taking to give business owners a true one-stop resource for helping them comply with government regulations,” said Nancy Sternberg, Program Manager of the Business Gateway Initiative. “The inclusion of state and local content on Business.gov means that small business owners can go to one web site to find what they need to successfully manage their operations.”

Business.gov has also expanded the content of its Small Business Guides that help business owners understand what regulations and programs apply to them, how to comply, and how to stay in compliance while growing and managing their operations. For example, if a retail business is interested in expanding its business online, the Small Business Guide to E-Commerce will provide guidance on legal and regulatory requirements the business owner must meet before opening an online store.

About Business.gov

Business.gov is the official business link to the U.S. Government. Business.gov is managed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in a partnership with 21 other federal agencies. This partnership, known as Business Gateway, is a Presidential E-government initiative that provides a single access point to government services and information to help the nation's businesses with their operations. Originally launched in 2004, the Web site provides information that helps businesses comply with government regulations.