Office of Small Business

In running your business, there are times when you may need a specialist in law, accounting, taxes, insurance or marketing.

This information is about buying an existing business or transferring ownership.

As a business, you'll have to pay taxes to different levels of government.

Make your business accessible to people with disabilities. It's good for business, a civil right for all people, and an ongoing responsibility.

If you are opening a live music or entertainment venue, or if you have an existing venue, consider a Type 90 liquor license. It can be an affordable option for you to serve alcoholic beverages to patrons while also admitting minors, all without being required to serve food.

Exporting can increase sales and revenues and make your business competitive domestically and internationally.

Make your business better for the environment. Save money, improve employee health, and attract customers.

Apply to become a certified Local Business Enterprise.

Borrowing money requires repaying over a period of time, usually with interest.

Learn about current City-run grant options for your business.

Hiring your first employee is a big step and has new complexities. Learn about labor law and payroll taxes at the local, state, and federal levels.

Hosted by the Office of Economic & Workforce Development/Office of Small Business. Supports entrepreneurs with access to capital, human resources, compliance, marketing, accounting, or any other business need.

Small business owners can get reimbursed for accessibility inspections or for making your business more accessible.

This grant provides up to $2,000 for vandalism-related costs. Examples of damages include broken windows, broken doors, broken locks, etching on windows, graffiti, and more. Businesses can receive the grant up to three times in one year.

To combat blight and to create a more welcoming and beautiful environment, San Francisco Public Works launched a pilot program to abate graffiti on certain private property in the City’s neighborhood commercial corridors at no out-of-pocket cost to the property owners.

Learn what resources are available to businesses after a major fire, including a Fire Disaster Relief grant of up to $10,000.

If you are no longer in business in San Francisco, you will need to close your business registration as well as any permits or licenses. Notify and pay final wages to employees in accordance with labor laws.

Long-standing small businesses can join the Registry for recognition, marketing and business help, and grants.

For businesses in continuous operation in San Francisco for at least 15 years.