Graphic with image of the LA Business Portal Website in a cell phone being held

Welcome to the LA Business Portal

The LA Business Portal provides you with all of the information you need to plan, start, manage, and grow your business. Try our Start Up Guide to quickly map out how to register your new business and be compliant.  Explore a rich library of content and resources to help you manage and grow your business.
 

Small businesses are essential to our city’s economy. The LA Business Portal is here to make sure you have everything you need to succeed.

TRY THE STARTUP GUIDE

Create a Business Plan

Effective business plans help clarify and organize your business priorities. Writing a business plan will help you determine your roadmap to profitability.

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Choose a Business Structure

Every business owner must choose a legal structure for their business in order to operate, register, and pay taxes. The legal structure you choose should suit the type of services or products you will provide. Consider your options to find the best fit for your business.

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Choose a Location

Do your research to find a great location for your business. Consider factors like demographics, lease terms, and whether your business is allowed by local zoning and building regulations before you sign on the dotted line.

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Register a Business

Registering your business is a key part of getting up and running. All companies doing business in the City of Los Angeles need to register with the City, and depending on how your business is set up, you may also need to register with the County, State and Federal Government.

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Finance a Business

Whether you’re looking for startup capital or considering a loan to finance the expansion of your business, a variety of opportunities are available through various lenders and programs.

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Resources

You know what running a successful business will look like, but you may need help to get there. Browse featured organizations, websites, courses, guides, incentives, and tools to help you on your way.

Resources and Incentives
Resources and Incentives

From networking to financing, there are many business resources and financial incentives to help start and grow your business. Explore what’s available for you.

Resources and Incentives
City Departments
City Departments

You’re not alone. City Departments are there to help you with everything, from gathering information to obtaining permits and licenses. Call, drop by, or visit their website to find the information and advice you need.

City Departments
BusinessSource Centers
BusinessSource Centers

There is no substitute for expert advice. Visit a BusinessSource Center near you for help with growing your business. Receive hands-on guidance on business planning, taxes, marketing, and much more.

BusinessSource Centers
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events

Use our calendar to plug in and discover events relevant for small businesses in LA.

Calendar of Events

Build Your Capacity

Plan a Business
Plan a Business

You’ve come up with a great idea and want to turn it into a great business. What's next? Learn more about what it will take to get your business up and running.

Plan a Business
Start a Business
Start a Business

You’ve decided to start a business and now it's time to legally register it. Use the Startup Guide or review the Starter Kits to see if a quick how-to-guide is available for your type of business.

Start a Business
Manage a Business
Manage a Business

Your doors are open, so what’s next? Educate yourself on important dates, laws, and local resources to help you succeed.

Manage a Business
Icon of Bars Growing
Grow a Business

Business is good and it’s time to expand. Discover the information and resources you need to grow your business and thrive.

Grow a Business

Announcements

Business Owners - Apply today for a free website!

Business Owners - Apply today for a free website!

The Office of Finance has partnered with ReBrand Cities and Wordpress.com to offer free websites and one year of hosting to all LA based businesses! Take part in a build-a-thon with your own dedicated Wordpress developer and bring your business online! Register here, pay a small $25 registration fee for your future website! Details in the link below.

Learn how to get certified to work with the City!

Learn how to get certified to work with the City!

Accessing BCA is a recurring workshop held every month to educate the business community on the programs of the Bureau of Contract Administration (BCA).

New Small Business Loan Program

New Small Business Loan Program

A loan program led by Mayor Eric Garcetti’s Great Streets initiative aims to give small business owners the boost they need to open their doors, grow their companies, and create good-paying jobs.

Manufacturing Support Initiative

Manufacturing Support Initiative

Mayor Garcetti's Manufacturing Support Initiative provides entrepreneurs and manufacturers across L.A. with industry support, networking opportunities, and education programs that will reach more than 1,000 entrepreneurs and manufacturers over the next 18 months. 

Mayor of Los Angeles Eric Garcetti
Whether you’re starting a bakery or run an auto shop — we designed the L.A. Business Portal to help ALL businesses.
Eric Garcetti
Mayor of Los Angeles