The depth of information provided varies in each source but most include history, competitors, basic financials, as well as basic directory information. MarketLine Company Profiles (from Business Source Premier) is the best place to start for US companies.
US and international companies with publicly traded stock on US stock exchanges are required to file documents with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). These SEC documents are the source for financial information found in the resources listed below.
Ratio sourcebooks contain financial and operating ratios, and composite balance sheet and income statements for specific industries, usually arranged by SIC or NAICS numbers. They can be used to provide guidance when putting together the financial section of your business plan. These are all available in print at 2 North Reference.
Many additional resources for doing company research are listed on the following guide:
