Business Research Databases

Free Resources

The following sampling of government databases can be used to research an industry or learn more about a potential target market.

FEDSTATS
This statistical database presents information compiled by over 100 federal agencies and is a helpful source of information about particular demographic groups.

Library Accessible Publications

New Strategist Press (Print Series)
This group publishes books on various segments of U.S. consumers, which includes particular demographic data or spending trends.

Proprietary Databases (Fee Based)

These databases are available through college or university libraries that pay a subscription to obtain access. Some reports may be purchased without a subscription, but can be cost prohibitive.

IBISWorld
This data source provides comprehensive profiles for over 700 U.S. and global industries, including future challenges and opportunities.

Plunkett Research LTD
This database provides comprehensive information on thirty industry sectors and specific industries within each sector.

referenceUSA
This data source is a useful research tool for industry and target market data and can be used to identify companies in a region and for generating sales lists.

Mintel Reports
Provides detailed target market information on consumer lifestyle and psychographic behavior over a wide range of industries. It also provides current data on industry trends and consumer buying patterns.

U.S. Census Bureau

U.S. Census Bureau
Provides comprehensive demographic information for conducting target market research and compiles detailed reports on specific industries.

U.S Census Bureau: American Fact Finder
A national online database that provides comprehensive demographic data at the national, state, county and zip code level. Data can easily be obtained via fact sheet format.

U.S Census Bureau: Quick Facts
Provides summaries of data for states and counties, which includes data for selected populations sorted by age, ethnicity, education, and income level.

U.S Census Bureau: County Business Patterns
This database allows the user to track industry activity in a U.S region at the state, county, city and zip code level.

U.S. Census Bureau: American Community Survey
This annual survey is conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau for over 3 million households.  It provides information on lifestyle and demographic topics such as income, home ownership, and other issues.

U.S. Government Data Portals

FIRSTGOV
The U.S. Government’s Official Web Portal is the entry point to all government information.

Other U.S. Government Resources

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Contains a searchable database of registered patents and trademarks.