Officially Starting Your Own Business

Want to officially start your own "sole proprietor" business as an animation artist? A jewelry designer? Graphic artist? Something else? Well, here are some easy steps to take to officially get the ball rolling. These tips are generated from an interview by RISD president John Maeda of the Providence Chamber of Commerce Laurie White asking her how to get RISD students started with an “ultra-light” creative business in Providence, RI. Laurie said she could do it in 59 seconds, and although they went a little bit over you can see how simple it really is.

Starting in Rhode Island:

1. Register your biz at City Hall at www.providenceri.com.
2. Contact www.tax.ri.gov to get your State Tax application.
3. Get your federal tax ID number www.irs.gov.
4. Get some biz insurance at www.provchamber.com.

Starting in Massachusetts:

1. Register your biz at City Hall at www.cityofboston.gov.
2. Contact www.mass.gov to get your State Tax application.
3. Get your federal tax ID number www.irs.gov.
4. Get some biz insurance at www.bostonchamber.com

You can watch the interview here.


How to Start a Business in Providence for RISD folks from John Maeda on Vimeo.