University of Washington Libraries links
http://www.lib.washington.edu/business/guides/imp.html
Contains a wealth of information regarding all areas of trade, with an emphasis on importing and exporting.

Franchising.org
http://www.franchising.org/
Resource of online franchise information. The "Franchisee Info" link has many useful resources.

Hoover's online
http://www.hoovers.com
Online information service for business; allows you to search for companies by industry or location

Fortune Global 500 List (for Fortune subscribers only)
http://www.fortune.com/fortune/fortune500

Inc. Magazine's list of the 500 fastest-growing firms
http://www.inc.com/inc500/

International Franchise Association
http://www.franchise.org/default-flash.asp
The International Franchise Association, founded in 1960, is a membership organization of franchisors, franchisees and suppliers.