Part of Office of Economic and Workforce Development

Business Development

We provide specialized support to address the unique needs of businesses in a variety of key sectors including nonprofits, life sciences, information technology, clean technology, manufacturing, fashion, nightlife, and international commerce.

Sector-based support

The City offers one-on-one guidance to help new businesses in a variety of sectors open quickly, including access to capital, innovative programs, and technical assistance.

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Specialized help

Get one-on-one help for starting or growing your business in key industries, including access to innovative resources and programs.

Find workers

Access local talent, create community partnerships, and reduce your recruitment costs with our no-cost services.

Nonprofit info

View San Francisco’s central point of information for tax-exempt, not-for-profit businesses.

cartoon of a person holding up a completed tax form, with a pile of cash in front of them

Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC)

The ERTC is a refundable tax credit that you can claim retroactively. It rewards businesses that kept employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. Get up to $26,000 per employee.

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News

San Francisco Marks Progress on Downtown Revitalization

August 22, 2023

Mayor Breed and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi Kick Off Planning of the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting at the Asian Art Museum

May 26, 2023

Mayor Breed Introduces Tax Reform Legislation as Part of Roadmap for Downtown's Future

February 14, 2023

See more news

Resources

Find tax credits and incentives for your business

Learn about local, state, and federal programs to help your business.

Step by step guide to starting a business in San Francisco

Find out where to begin, what you need, and how to plan for success.

Permit Center Business Services

We offer over-the-counter services and permits for businesses.

San Francisco Small Business Development Center

Get access to no-cost technical expertise from the SF Small Business Development Center.

If you engage in business in San Francisco, you must register and renew your registration annually.

Office of Small Business

San Francisco's central point of information for small businesses.

Become a City Supplier

Businesses that are Suppliers can apply for and receive certain grants and contracts with the City.

About

For emerging and established companies, the Business Development team offers one-on-one guidance to help new businesses in a variety of sectors open quickly, including access to capital, innovative programs, and technical assistance. Business Development is a division of the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development.

Divisions