Develop and Maintain a Solid Business Plan.
If you are interested in starting a business in the city of Richmond, the following steps should be taken to simplify the
process.
The Department of Economic Decelopment(DED) provides a suggested template for a standard business plan. For added assistance, you may
want to hire a personal independent consultant experienced in creating business plans.
We also provide a CD-ROM that assists with creating a business plan, called "An Interactive Guide to Starting a Business in the city
of Richmond." To request a CD-ROM, call or email us.
Secure Necessary Financing.
Based on your business plan, find the financing you will need to run your business. DED can offer guidance when you are seeking
financing and incentives.
Find a Business Location.
If you do not have a business location already, contact the Department of Economic Development to find available properties
in the city of Richmond that are for sale and/or lease.
Check your Zoning Designation.
Make sure your type of business is allowed by law at your business location. If your use is allowed at the site, then ask to
receive a Certificate of Zoning Compliance. If your type of use is not allowed, you can search for another location, apply for a
Special Use Permit, or apply to change the Zoning Designation. Fees apply. Call or visit the Department of Planning & Development Review's
Bureau of Permits and Inspections.
Obtain a Certificate of Occupancy.
Depending on the type of improvements needed at your potential business location, you will need to apply for a
Building Permit. Separate permits may be required for each major trade doing work on your property (Mechanical, Electrical,
Plumbing, Elevator, and Demolition). The city will send inspectors to your site to confirm that all work is in compliance with
applicable local, state and federal laws. Fees apply. Call or visit the Department of Planning & Development Review's
Bureau of Permits and Inspections.
Get a Business License.
Take your Certificate of Occupancy to the Department of Finance and fill out a Business License Application Form. Fees apply.
Call or visit the Department of Finance at City Hall.
Get Other Necessary Licenses and Permits.
Depending on your type of business, you may be required to obtain special licenses and permits.
- Contractor's Class A, B and C State License and Contractor's Workers' Compensation Certification.
For more information, contact the following:
-
Health Permits. For more information, contact the
Department of Health
-
Beer, Wine and Mixed Beverage Permits (ABC License). For more information, contact the
Virginia ABC Board
Register the Name of Your Business.
Within 30 days of receiving your business license, you must file a Certificate of Assumed Name and Partnerships at the John
Marshall Courts Building (Clerk of the Circuit Court). For more information, contact the
Clerk of the Circuit Court.
Register and Obtain a Certificate of Business Registration from the State of Virginia
To register your corporation, partnership, limited liability company and/or business trust doing business in Virginia, contact
the State Corporation Commission, which offers a state-wide
Business Registration Guide.
Get a Federal Tax Identification Number.
Contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
to apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN).
Get a State Tax Identification Number.
Contact the Virginia Department of Taxation.
Open for Business! Network, Network, Network!
Enjoy the wonderful business community in the city of Richmond by joining forces with DED's Partners to network and spread the
word about your business. Connect to local Merchants' Associations and business events going on in your area that could impact
your business.
For more information, check out our List of Partners.
Continue to Learn and Grow.
To become a savvy business owner, knowledge of current business technologies and trends is crucial. DED's partners provide
excellent resources to help businesses grow and adapt to changing conditions.For more information, check out our list of
Business Education affiliates on the web.
Contact us to share your success story or to find additional business assistance. We are here to help you become a successful
business in our city of the Future.
