Business Assistance

We have the team of organizations that can help you start or move your business, from counseling to financial planning to reporting.

  • This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , Development & Engineering/Economic Development, City of Tracy
  • This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , CEO, San Joaquin Partnership
  • This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , San Joaquin County Entreprise Zone, Tracy Representative

Business Start Up Check List

  1. Develop a Business Plan
    A business plan is your guide for developing your business. It assists you in analyzing the feasibility of a new business. It is a MUST if you intend to secure a loan, but should be developed even if you will not.
  2. Consult with Necessary Professionals
      • Accountant
      • Attorney
      • Banker
      • Insurance agent/broker
  3. Decide on Legal Structure
    Sole proprietorship
    Partnership
    Limited Liability Co.
    Corporation
  4. Verify and File Fictitious Business Name Statement
    You must do this if you do not use your own name in business.
    San Joaquin County Recorder/Clerk
    24 S. Hunter Street, Room 304
    Stockton, CA 95202
    209-468-3939
  5. Obtain a Business License
    Download a printable version of the Business License Application
    Finance Dept., License Div.
    City of Tracy
    333 Civic Center Plaza 
    Tracy, CA 95376
    209-831-6800
  6. Check Zoning Laws and Land Use Ordinances
    San Joaquin County Community Development Dept.
    1810 E. Hazelton Ave.
    Stockton, CA 95205
    Phone (209) 468-3120
  7. Obtain other necessary Permits or Licenses
    (food, liquor, doctor, nurse, contractor, auto repair, etc.)
    San Joaquin County Environmental Health Division
    304 E. Weber Ave. 3rd Floor
    Stockton, CA 95201
    Phone (209) 468-3420
  8. Apply for a State Employer Tax Identification Number
    Franchise Tax Board
    31 E. Channel Street
    Stockton, CA
    Phone (800) 852-5711
  9. Apply for a Federal Tax Identification Number
    IRS
    1550 W. Fremont #150
    Stockton, CA 95203
    Phone (800) 829-1040
  10. Apply for Sellers Permit, if reselling a product
    Download a printable version of the Sellers Permit application
    Board Of Equalization
    31 E. Channel Street, Pm. 264
    Stockton, CA 95202
    Phone 209/948-7720

Please check with the Economic Development Association at (209) 468-3615 for any additional requirements unique to certain businesses.

Counseling

SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives)
Phone (209) 835-2131
SCORE is a nonprofit association sponsored by the Small Business Administration which provides free one-on-one business counseling by a successful retired executive in the Tracy Chamber of Commerce office the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of every month. He can help you with all start up issues, including developing a business plan. To schedule an appointment, please call Maria at the Chamber office.

SBDC (Small Business Development Center)
(209) 954-5089
The SBDC is co-sponsored by the Small Business Administration and the San Joaquin Delta College. They help businesses with financial, marketing, production, organization, and technical problems. Staff, consultants and volunteers provide assistance in all aspects of business management and start-up.

EEDD (Employment and Economic Development Association)
Phone (209) 468-3615
The San Joaquin County Employment and Economic Development Department (EEDD) administers several economic development programs including:

Economic Development Association (EDA)

 Economic Development Association in cooperation with the Employment and Economic Development Department, Chambers of Commerce and local governments, is a "One-Stop" business resource committed to meeting the needs of development prospects, local businesses and the community. EDA's goal is to encourage and assist business development in San Joaquin County

 Enterprise Zone

Phone (209) 468-3613

 The state of California has designated only 42 enterprise zones to encourage business expansion through tax savings and incentives for businesses. The Enterprise Zone program stimulates business and industiral growth in economically challenged areas of the state and increases job opportunities.

 WorkNet
Phone (209) 831-5981
Worknet of San Joaquin County is a full service employment and training organization. It provides many services to county businesses such as employee recruitment, screening, and training. WorkNet also offers job placement, occupational skills and job-search training, and educational assistance.