RMI Small Business Starter Guide — 2026 Edition

Turn your business idea into a practical launch plan with this step-by-step introduction to starting and operating a small business in the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, local business owners, foreign investors, students, and organizations supporting small-business development, this digital guide explains the RMI startup process in plain language and places the major registrations, costs, taxes, labor requirements, and planning decisions in one resource.

Inside, readers will learn:

• how to turn an idea into a basic business plan;
• how to register and license a business in Majuro;
• where to obtain a local business license;
• how to register as an employer with MISSA;
• how GRT, Net Profit Tax, Consumption Tax, wage withholding, Social Security, and health contributions may affect a business;
• how to budget for first-year startup and compliance costs;
• how land access and commercial leasing can affect a business location;
• which industries may present opportunities in the RMI;
• how foreign investors can approach FIBL, corporate registration, Labor, Immigration, work permits, and related requirements;
• what to prepare for annual renewals and ongoing compliance.

The guide also includes a basic business plan template and a practical Lazy Jays case study showing how one RMI business developed its concept, identified its customers, planned startup costs, diversified revenue, and built a marketing strategy. The Lazy Jays source plan illustrates a mixed café, community, travel, and service model aimed at students, professionals, families, expatriates, government and NGO staff, and travelers.

The market section reflects real challenges facing the RMI private sector, including tax reform, investment barriers, access to land, labor governance, skills shortages, and the need for development across primary, secondary, service, and knowledge-based industries.

Included with purchase

• Downloadable PDF e-book
• Editable business-plan template
• Resident business startup checklist
• Foreign investor startup checklist
• First-year startup cost planner
• Registration and renewal roadmap
• Lazy Jays business-plan sample