Starting a business is no easy task. But there are resources out there that can help you, not only in the startup phase, but during the entire lifecycle of your business. Please check out the following resources for valuable information on planning, funding, starting and managing your business.

American FactFinder: The U.S. Census Bureau runs a great site that provides a vast selection of demographic data for population, housing, economic, and geographic trends.

Internal Revenue Service: The Internal Revenue Service site is packed with tax information for individuals and businesses alike. The site also provides high-level guidelines for starting, operating and closing a business.

SBA: The United States Small Business Administration manages a valuable site that covers a wealth of small business information. We especially like their custom views for Starting, Financing, and Managing a business.

SCORE: The Service Corps Of Retired Executives (SCORE) site.  If you're thinking of starting a small business, you need to check out SCORE.  Chances are they have an office near you.  The volunteers at SCORE go out of their way to provide guidance and best-practices to potential small business owners like yourself.  

United States Patent and Trademark Office: If your new business idea involves an invention or if you want to trademark your operation, you most certainly should check out the US Patent and Trademark Office site.