Knowing the 4-digit SIC and 6-digit NAICS code for your industry will help you find information. The U.S. Bureau of the Census has a website that will help you identify the best number for your business. If you need to convert SIC to NAICS or vice versa, the bureau provides a concordance.
Provides reports for all of the industries in the United States as categorized by the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). It also includes reports on industries in Australia, Canada, China, Mexico, and the U.K.
NetAdvantage provides information on companies, industries, stocks, mutual funds and the economy. Sources include Industry Surveys, Stock Reports, Bond Reports and Corporation Records.
Trade associations collect information on their industry. Sometimes they will provide free data, but other times you may have to contact the association directly to see what they have. Check out the website and look for links labeled "Research," "Media," or "Statistics." You can find trade groups listed in the two sources listed above and also use the Encyclopedia of Associations kept at the Reference Desk.
Trade journals can provide valuable data for the entrepreneur. Trade associations often publish them and may provide access via their website. You'll also find trade magazines listed in the "Industry References" section of Industry Surveys (NetAdvantage). Use the "Looking for...A Specific Journal" link (bottom right) on our homepage, http://library.missouri.edu, to see if the Libraries provide access.
Industry Information from the U.S. Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration
ITA's Manufacturing and Services Unit pulls together information on industries designed to help the U.S. exporter. You'll find reports related to the health industry as well as other U.S. industries.
SBDCNet resources (Small Business Development Centers)
