Research may include, but is not limited to,

• chamber of commerce
• libraries
• trade magazines or journals
• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
• other agencies (e.g., SCORE, Virginia Department of Business Assistance, Virginia's regional technology councils).

Mentors and professional advisers may include

• entrepreneurs
• SBA representatives
• bank representatives
• trade association representatives
• small business development centers/business support agencies.

Process/Skill Questions:

• Who might serve as mentors to a new agribusiness?
• What government agencies are available to mentor a new agribusiness owner?
• Why should an agribusiness have a business plan?
• Why is it important to include the objectives of the business in the business plan?
• How important is the marketing component in a business plan?
• How does the business determine the profit goals?
• Where can one get good information on one’s competitors?
• Which financial statements are required for a business plan?