Having a great business idea is just the start. From securing the proper permits to finding the best location and hiring the right employees, there are many things to consider when starting a business. Click on the tools below for help making your business idea a reality.

How to Start a Business

5 Steps to Starting a Business

When starting a new business, there are many important decisions to make and procedures that must be addressed. While there is no single source for all filing requirements, the following steps have been developed to assist you in starting your business.

• Step one: Write a business plan.
  A business plan will help you decide how you will successfully run your business. Visit the Small Business Administration website [2] for tips and tools.
   
• Step two: Choose a business location.
  The Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development [3] includes resources to help you select a business location.
   
• Step three: Determine the legal structure of your business.
  Visit the California Secretary of State's website [4] for information.
   
• Step four: File your tax employer and identification documents.
  Visit the Secretary of State's website [5] for information.
   
• Step five: Obtain your business licenses and permits.
  Click on the link below for information regarding business licenses and permits.
  CalGOLD [6]

Access to Capital

Click here [7] to read the Access to Capital guidebook put together by California Financial Opportunities Roundtable (CalFOR). This guidebook provides readers with basic information to help them finance their new business venture.

Choosing Your Location and Equipment

Visit the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development Business Investment Services website [8] for site selection assistance.

Marketing Your Business

Facebook is teaming up with elected officials to offer free small business workshops. People who attend the workshops learn how to use social media to grow their business and expand their customer base. The workshops cover branding, driving traffic and finding new customers. Contact your assemblymember to learn more.

Google's Get Your Business Online program helps small businesses manage their online presence. Visit the Get Your Business Online [9] website to learn more.

Hiring and Retaining Employees

Adding to your team is an important step. The Small Business Administration [10] provides information to ensure your hiring process is smooth and compliant with state and federal regulations.

Additional Resources [11]