Ten Steps to Start Your Business
1. Initial Research and Information
Starting a business carries risks. As an entrepreneur, you can diminish these risks by performing some due diligence as part of the initial planning stages. In Sonoma County, there are plenty of resources available to guide entrepreneurs through these stages.
2. Develop Your Business Plan
Document your business goals and develop a roadmap to profitability.
3. Finance Your Startup
Ensure that you have enough capital to finance your operations. Once you have developed a business plan, that are several resources for small business financing.
4. Local Licensing Requirements
Find out what local licenses and permits you need to operate.
5. Register Your Business
Register your business correctly with federal, state, county, and city agencies.
6. State Licensing Requirements
Your business might require additional state licenses, depending on your product or service.
7. Zoning and Permit Requirements
Check to ensure that your business location meets zoning requirements.
8. Tax Requirements
Make sure that your business is set up to handle your tax requirements.
9. Employer Responsibility
If you plan to hire employees, utilize countywide resources to hire, train, and recruit your workforce.
10. Additional Business Resources
Get the inside scoop on all the business assistance services in Sonoma County.