Growing Your Business

Second stage businesses are established entities that have survived the startup phase of the organization life cycle, and have the intent and capacity to grow.

Take your company to the next level with the help of resources around planning, marketing, human resources and more.

Founding team in red cutting yellow tape

Step One

Create a Growth Plan

It is important to have a plan for growing your business. This involves reflecting on the current status of your business, along with identifying future goals.

Woman with a table of items for sales

Step Two

Market Research and Planning

Know what your customers want and make it easy for them to buy what you sell.

Man in front of table and chairs

Step Three

Exporting to Expand Sales

Reach markets beyond your immediate borders, domestically and internationally.

Man with a metal device

Step Four

Selling to the Government and Getting Certified

Submit bids to government agencies and apply for certifications for women-, veteran- and minority-owned businesses.

Women workers in a food business

Step Five

Hiring and Retaining the Right Employees

Attract, hire and retain the right time.

Big group of people photo op

Step Six

Assembling a Board of Advisors for Your Small Business

Outside oversight can drive business growth and expansion.

Two women and a man at a conference

Step Seven

Developing an Exit Strategy for Your Business

Plan for when you will transfer ownership, sell internally, sell to a third party or liquidate.