Do you dream of starting your own business in Stamford? If your answer is yes, then this section is for you. We'll help you be prepared to overcome the challenges you may face, by offering you a detailed and informative guide, with plenty of additional resources.

Starter Kits
Our Starter Kits offer a detailed description on how to open and operate a specific business within our City. The plans outline the regulatory boundaries, like zoning and permitting, and list some of the available financial assistance packages that can be utilized by your business type. Our goal is to provide you with a complete business package to reference when you take your first steps towards beginning your successful venture.

Create a Name
Coming up with the perfect name for your business is a difficult undertaking. Once you have the idea, your next step is to register it. If you have decided to conduct your business under a name other than your own, you will need to contact the Office of the Stamford Town Clerk for a Trade Name Certificate. This section offers more information and a few helpful tips on how to complete this process.

Make a Business Plan
A successful business develops from strong game plans. Knowing your business goals and how to reach them will help prioritize each step and show investors why they should invest in your business.

Select a Legal Structure
The business type you choose will impact the amount you pay in taxes and your personal liability with the company. There are several types of business entities to choose from. You must select your business structure before registering your business and, in some cases, before deciding on a name. This is not a substitute for legal or professional advice.

Business Registration
Any and all businesses within Stamford must register with the City. Depending on the type of business structure, you might need to register or incorporate through the State first.

Permits & Licenses 
Make sure you research which permits, licenses and regulations you need in order to open and operate your business.

Financial Advantages
All new businesses need access to capital in order to grow. This section is focused on helping you secure that funding through grants and a variety of borrowing options.

Location Opportunities
"Location, location, location!" When starting a business, the place you decide to set up shop is arguably just as important as what you intend to sell. Included in this section are tips on how to find a successful home-based or commercial enterprise.

Zoning & Building
Before you commit to a location or building space, you should familiarize yourself with the City Zoning Map and regulations you must abide by. Compliance with these regulations is a prerequisite of obtaining a Building Permit and Building Certificate of Occupancy required by the State of Connecticut Building Code. This section offers a more in-depth look at the departments responsibility for enforcing these regulations and the zoning/building process as a whole.

ADA Compliance
Making your business accessible to people with disabilities not only serves your customers, it’s the law. Improving accessibility opens up your business to a larger clientele and also allows you to comply with federal and state laws.

Employ
To really get your business off the ground, you need to hire employees! Included in this section is information on reporting & tax requirements, labor requirements, and advice on employee training.

_{Photo by Ketut Subiyanto}