Resources Every Richmond Entrepreneur Should Know
Starting a small business is one of the most exciting and challenging things you can do. I know firsthand the obstacles entrepreneurs face, from navigating city permits to finding the right space to grow. As a small business owner and candidate for Richmond City Council District 4, I’m committed to making it easier for businesses to launch and thrive here.
Richmond needs more local entrepreneurs creating jobs, building community, and strengthening our economy. But too often, red tape and confusing processes get in the way.
This guide is designed to help you take the first steps toward opening your business in Richmond. Whether you’re launching a restaurant, opening a retail shop, starting a service business, or building something entirely new, here’s what you need to know.
Step 1: Get Your Small Business License in Richmond
Every business operating in Richmond needs a business license. This is your first official step, and it’s required before you open your doors.
What You Need to Know:
Where to Apply:
City of Richmond Finance Department
450 Civic Center Plaza
Richmond, CA 94804
You can also start your application online through the City of Richmond website: https://www.richmondca.gov/.
What You’ll Need:
- Business name and type
- Business location (street address)
- Owner information (name, contact, Social Security Number or Federal Tax ID)
- Estimated gross receipts (your expected annual revenue)
Cost:
Business license fees vary based on your gross receipts. The minimum fee starts around $100, with costs increasing based on revenue. The city calculates this annually, so you’ll renew each year.
Timeline:
Processing typically takes 1-2 weeks if your application is complete. Plan ahead. You cannot legally operate without this license.
Important: Certain businesses require additional permits beyond a business license (restaurants, retail food, childcare, etc.). Check with the Planning Department to confirm what you need.
Step 2: Organizations That Help Small Businesses in Richmond
Getting your business license is just the beginning. Richmond has several organizations dedicated to helping small businesses succeed. These resources provide technical assistance, networking opportunities, and access to capital.
Richmond Chamber of Commerce
The Richmond Chamber connects local businesses with each other and advocates for policies that support economic growth. Members gain access to networking events, business referrals, and resources to help navigate local regulations.
Website: richmondchamber.org
Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Contra Costa College
The SBDC offers free, confidential business consulting and low-cost training workshops. Their advisors can help with business planning, financial projections, marketing strategies, and accessing capital. This is an invaluable resource whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow an existing business.
Website: contracosta.edu/sbdc
Richmond Main Street Initiative
Richmond Main Street works to revitalize commercial corridors and support local businesses in Richmond’s downtown and neighborhood business districts. They provide technical assistance, promotional support, and help connect businesses with resources.
WIBO (Workshop in Business Opportunities)
WIBO offers an intensive 16-week program for aspiring entrepreneurs, providing mentorship, business planning support, and access to a network of experienced business owners. The program is specifically designed for low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs.
RichmondWORKS
While primarily focused on workforce development, RichmondWORKS can help businesses connect with qualified local candidates and offers resources for businesses looking to hire and train employees.
Website: richmondworks.org
Community Banks and Credit Unions
Local financial institutions like Patelco Credit Union and other community banks offer small business loans, lines of credit, and financial guidance tailored to Richmond businesses. Building relationships with local lenders can be crucial when you need capital to grow.
Step 3: Zoning and Permits for Your Small Business in Richmond
Before you sign a lease or buy property, make sure your business is allowed in that location. Richmond has zoning regulations that determine what types of businesses can operate in different areas.
Contact the Planning Department:
City of Richmond Planning Department
450 Civic Center Plaza
Richmond, CA 94804
They can tell you whether your business type is permitted in your chosen location and what additional permits you may need.
Step 4: Register Your Small Business Name in Richmond
If you’re operating under a name different from your personal name (for sole proprietors) or your legal business name (for corporations or LLCs), you’ll need to file a Fictitious Business Name Statement, also known as a DBA (Doing Business As).
Where to File:
Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder
555 Escobar Street
Martinez, CA 94553
You’ll also need to publish your DBA in a local newspaper for four consecutive weeks.
Step 5: Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
If you plan to hire employees or operate as a corporation or partnership, you’ll need an EIN from the IRS. This is free and can be done online at irs.gov.
Step 6: Tax Obligations for a Small Business in Richmond
Federal Taxes:
Register with the IRS and understand your federal tax obligations based on your business structure.
State Taxes:
Register with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration if you’ll be selling goods or certain services. You may need to collect sales tax.
Local Taxes:
Richmond has a business license tax based on gross receipts. Make sure you understand your annual obligations.
Step 7: Insurance for Your Small Business in Richmond
Most businesses need some form of insurance. Common types include:
- General liability insurance
- Workers’ compensation (required if you have employees)
- Property insurance
- Professional liability insurance (depending on your industry)
Consult with an insurance agent familiar with small business needs.
Additional Resources for Starting a Small Business in Richmond
SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives)
Free mentoring from experienced business professionals
Website: score.org
California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz)
State-level resources and assistance for California businesses
Website: business.ca.gov
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
Federal resources, loan programs, and guidance
Website: sba.gov
Why Starting a Small Business in Richmond Matters
As someone who serves on Richmond’s Economic Development Commission, I see every day how critical small businesses are to our city’s future. Every new business creates jobs, strengthens neighborhoods, and makes Richmond more vibrant.
But I also see how challenging it can be to navigate the process. That’s why I’m committed to making Richmond more business-friendly. We need to streamline permitting, reduce red tape, and make it easier for entrepreneurs to say yes to Richmond.
If you’re thinking about starting a business in Richmond, I encourage you to use these resources. Connect with the organizations that exist to help you succeed. And if you run into obstacles or have ideas about how the city can better support small businesses, I want to hear from you.
Richmond’s future depends on the people willing to invest their time, energy, and resources into building something here. Let’s make sure the city is doing everything it can to help you succeed.
Have questions or need help navigating city resources? Contact my campaign at info@jamin4richmond.com. I’m here to help.