Maine SBDC counselors can help service members plan ahead and work individually on questions such as-
o Keep the business open, close it or sell it?
o Who needs to know?
o How to let them know and when?
o What needs to be done first?

Plan ahead to keep the business open -
o Who will:
 - manage financials such as receivables, billing, payroll?
 - be responsible for customers, operations, staffing?
 - solve problems and make critical decisions?
o How will you support the business?

Plan ahead to close the business -
o Who needs to be notified and when?
o Any legal, financial, or inventory issues?
o When will employees be notified, how and by whom?
o What about furniture, business equipment, machinery?
o Who will handle the final payroll, accounts receivable?

Plan ahead to sell the business -
o What is the business' value?
o Enlist a broker or sell it yourself?
o What if it doesn't sell before departure?
o Who needs to be notified before, during, and after the sale? 
 

Preparing your business for Deployment - a 25 minute online workshop summarizing important issues and concerns for small business owners during deployment. Click on picture.

 As you plan for deployment, you are very likely to encounter business-related legal and administrative issues. These potential issues are another good reason why you should carefully prepare a business plan before you mobilize. Decisions must be made regarding insurance coverage, powers of attorney and preparing your employees. Moreover, your mobilization will affect how the business plan will need to be updated. It's in your best interest to try to get your legal and administrative affairs in order as far in advance of your deployment as possible. Keeping up with your legal and administrative affairs will not only benefit you personally, but it will also put your business on firmer ground and improve overall military readiness.