Small Business Resources
At the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, we know that this year has been especially challenging for small businesses. We are working hard to stay up to date and advocate for the resources you need in order to keep your business running.
Please see below for currently available resources.
Small Business Help Desks
Join our monthly Small Business Help Desk where our Small Business Manager highlights important resources for our Small Business community.
Redwood Credit Union
Businesses are eligible for Business Platinum Visa credit cards, which allow for:
- Issue employee cards for business expenses
- Low and variable rates
- Easy to transfer balances from other credit cards, with no fee
- Get cash advances
- Earn 1 point per dollar spent with your Visa® credit card
- Quick purchases with Apple Pay®, Google Pay™ or Samsung Pay®
Business Accounts are not eligible for Debit Rewards. For cash advances at a non-RCU location, the greater of 2% of the advance or $20 will be charged. Convenience checks, cash advance transactions, and balance transfers are excluded from earning points.
Term loans, commercial real estate loans, lines of credit, and commercial insurance are also available.
Contact: 1-800-479-7928 or 707-545-4000 || Business Center: 1 (877) 545-4100
PCV
We’re a mission-driven lender that provides fair and affordable loans up to $250,000 to California small businesses. Our loans help small business owners as they thrive, be successful, and create jobs in their communities. We’re here to help small business owners build back better from the COVID-19 pandemic, including the capital and advice needed to pivot or reopen safely and sustainably.
Staff and financial advisors will get your small business’ finances in order, and as one of our small business loan borrowers, you’ll get free access to a network of over 2,000 business advisors for help in any area you need, like marketing, business strategy, or sales. All of the areas that you may face challenges in as you grow your business.
Investing can help clients effectively deploy capital and manage investments in alignment with their financial and impact objectives with impact investing research and consulting practice Investors, philanthropists, and policymakers are provided the tools, tactics, and strategies to measure and communicate the social and financial outcomes of their investments and increase their impact.
Website: https://www.pacificcommunityventures.org
Contact:(415) 442-4300 Fax: (415) 442-4313
CHASE
SBA 7(a) loan program (more info on ALL SBA loans and lenders below)
- Range: up to $5 million per term loan
- Can be used for a variety of purposes including acquisition of a business, purchase of real estate or equipment, working capital to help manage cash flow, and business expansion
- Flexible loan terms, with longer maturities and less money down
SBA 504 Loan Program
- Range: up to $12.5 million
- Can be used for the purchase of real estate, construction, equipment acquisition, and refinancing debt
- Extended terms are available
- Save money with competitive long-term interest rates
- Borrow up to 90% of the project cost or collateral value
SBA Express
- Range: credit lines up to $350,000
- Ideal for smaller real estate, business acquisition, equipment purchase, or working capital needs
- Term loans or credit lines
- Fixed or variable interest rates
Main Street Launch: Small Business Revolving Loan Fund
Contact: Karla De Leon || (510) 830 - 3226 || karla@mainstreetlaunch.org
- Range: $10,000- $50,000
- RLF microloans can be used for start-up expenses, furniture, fixtures, equipment, tenant improvements, working capital, and marketing. RLF microloans may not be used for personal expenses, debt consolidations, debt refinancing, or research/development of new products
- Preliminary parameters for borrower include:
- Operating a business within the city and county of San Francisco
- Create or retain at least one full-time job
Main Street Launch: Emerging Business Loan Fund
Contact: Karla De Leon || (510) 830 - 3226 || karla@mainstreetlaunch.org
- Range: $50,000- $250,000
- Commercial loans that support high-impact businesses and projects with the potential to increase economic activity in San Francisco as well as create jobs for low to moderate-income individuals.
- Can be used for working capital, equipment, real estate, tenant improvements, etc.
PVC: California Rebuilding Fund
Contact: PVC
- Range: $5,000-$100,000
- To support small businesses, especially those economically disadvantaged and historically under-banked areas. The loans will need to be paid back over a 3- or 5-year term with a fixed annual interest rate that is currently 4.25%, with the exception of San Francisco-based businesses who are eligible for 0% interest loans as a result of local City support.
Website: https://www.pacificcommunityventures.org/2020/11/20/announcing-the-california-rebuilding-fund
MEDA: Community Loan fund
Contact: loans@medasf.org || erodriguez@medasf.org || (415) 282-3334 ext. 130
- Range: $5,000-$100,000
- Fondo Adelante’s micro-lending program is offering loans of up to $100,000 to San Francisco small-business owners. All loan recipients will receive pre-and post-loan closing technical assistance from MEDA’s Business Development Program, offered in English and Spanish.
- Loan products are offered in combination with MEDA’s business coaching, it is one combined product. The loan fund will be able to consider small-business owners who are often deemed high risk by other microlenders. Ultimately, these small-business owners will create jobs within San Francisco’s lower-income communities.
- Loans can be used for any legitimate business purpose: startups, supplies and inventory, equipment, lease improvements, vehicles, purchasing a business, business debt consolidation, and working capital.
California Relief Grant
Contact: (888) 612 - 4370
- Range: $5,000-$25,000
- For the small businesses or non-profits in California impacted by the ongoing pandemic
Website: https://careliefgrant.com
Alliance for Community Development
The Alliance hosts a variety of convenings ranging from social gatherings to business development support workshops and webinars to community ask and give forums. Our events are often in partnership with other organizations so that we can uplift the collaborative work that makes the Bay Area Business Ecosystem the community that it is.
Email: info@alliancecd.org
Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
The SBDC provides free virtual and in-person trainings and workshops designed for business development on a variety of key topics.
Monthly Events Calendar: https://www.sfsbdc.org/events/?e_source%5B%5D=all
Contact: (415) 937-7232
Website: https://www.sfsbdc.org/services
San Francisco Business Portal
Provides assistance in legal services, bookkeeping, and accounting and insurance
Website: https://businessportal.sfgov.org/manage/professional-assistance
Children’s Council San Francisco
Provides technical assistance in English, Spanish and Chinese for providers during or after getting their license. Provides resources to better run your business and serve the community.
Website: https://www.childrenscouncil.org/for-child-care-programs/overview
Japantown Task Force
The task force aims to preserve and develop Japantown, strengthen ethnic diversity, and create an atmosphere of safety, beauty, vitality, and prosperity. JTF provides technical assistance on commercial leases, loan packaging, marketing, and assists merchants in accessing resources.
Contact: (415) 346 - 1239
Email: info@japantowntaskforce.org
Alliance for Community Development
Bay Area Entrepreneurship Alliance Entrepreneur toolbox: https://www.alliancecd.org/entrepreneur-toolbox.html
Benefits of joining BAE include:
- Access to a Sample Entrepreneur Roadmap which helps entrepreneurs navigate their process. If you sign up for a free navigation session, after the session you will receive a personalized roadmap of resources
- Partake in Quarterly Member meetings where once a quarter, members share best practices, develop partnerships, find mentors, and engage in speed networking
- Gain access to a Resource Database with 350+ resources here in the Bay Area ecosystem. Resources are categorized in several tabs, either by business stage the resource serves or by type of resource
- Through the VALUES system, learn transparent and accessible ways to serve the community, vet resources, and identify how to strengthen your program. The VALUES Wheel illustrates six VALUES as a cohesive set of core beliefs. Use the Outcomes Matrix to better understand each of our co-created VALUES.
Small Business Development Center
Support provided for a start-up company. Learn about common challenges you may face and how to overcome them, how to plan and carry out your business, financing, and accounting, legal and HR, operations, marketing, and more. Have access to a variety of resources ranging from checklists for starting a business, news and media resources, import/ export help, financing resources, and many more.
Startup Introduction Website: https://www.sfsbdc.org/1-on-1-free-advising/startup/
Useful Links and Tools (Resources): https://www.sfsbdc.org/resource/helpful-links-and-tools/
San Francisco Office of Small Business: Small Business Assistance Center
The Office of Small Business, Small Business Assistance Center is the city's central point for information and assistance for small businesses and entrepreneurs located in San Francisco. We provide one-to-one case management assistance including information on required licenses and permits, technical assistance, financing options, and other business resources to help businesses start, grow, and thrive.
Primary Contact: (martha.yanez@sfgov.org) || Located in San Francisco City Hall, Room 140
Contact: (415) 554-6134
Email: SFOSB@SFGOV.ORG
Small Business Administration: Small Business Planner
An interactive guide with all the steps that are necessary for starting, planning, launching, managing, and growing a business.
Website: https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/plan-your-business/write-your-businessplan
GreatNonprofits
A Non- profit in the bay area that aims to provide a community for other non-profits and provide publicity. Offers a free and easy-to-use platform to share and collect reviews and stories about the community you serve—so donors and volunteers know about you and your good work! Serves non-profits nationwide.
Website: https://greatnonprofits.org/city/san-francisco/CA
Office of Economic Workforce Development (OEWD):
San Francisco’s Nonprofit Sustainability Initiative
Deploys financial assistance, professional services, assessment tools, and other resources to help stabilize nonprofits and overcome barriers to growth. The initiative builds on the impact of previous City-funded programs, such as the Nonprofit Space Capital Fund and the Nonprofit Displacement Mitigation Program, as well as past efforts of private foundations and nonprofits. As part of the Nonprofit Sustainability Initiative, OEWD works with the Mayor's Office of Housing and Community Development, the San Francisco Arts Commission, and Community Vision to administer programs that support organizations seeking long-term leases and permanently affordable space.
These programs have three components:
- ACQUISITION- Approximately $2 million is awarded annually to help nonprofits acquire permanent space and to incentivize philanthropic investment in space stabilization. Eligible nonprofits may apply for the lesser of $1 million or 25% of project costs to support the acquisition.
- RENEWAL, RELOCATION, AND EXPANSION- Approximately $500,000 in financial assistance is awarded annually to address urgent needs by providing grants to overcome barriers to lease renewal, relocation, and expansion. Organizations with leases for 3-4 years may apply for grants up to $50,000 for professional services (architectural, engineering, legal); rent stipend; moving expenses; or furnishings, fixtures, and equipment. Organizations with leases of 5 years or longer may apply for grants up to $75,000 for the expenses listed above as well as tenant improvements.
- REAL ESTATE READINESS- Individual organizations facing displacement or barriers to growth may be eligible to apply for professional services through the Nonprofit Sustainability Initiative. Assistance offered in the program includes financial planning, space planning, identifying/evaluating potential sites, negotiating leases or purchase agreements, developing construction budgets and project timelines, and analyzing potential funding sources. visit communityvisionca.org/sfsustainability for program details, deadlines, and eligibility guidelines, and to register for information sessions. Technical assistance applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Please subscribe to the e-newsletter using the link above to receive notification of future Nonprofit Sustainability Initiative opportunities.
Website: https://oewd.org/impact-accelerator
Office of Economic Workforce Development (OEWD):
The Citywide Nonprofit Monitoring and Capacity Building Program
This program consolidates fiscal and compliance monitoring. It is designed to decrease the administrative burden and eliminate duplication of effort for both nonprofit contractors and City departments. The Program has established a Corrective Action Policy, which may be implemented when nonprofits do not meet the fiscal and compliance standards required by the City.
The program also provides training and technical assistance to both nonprofits and City departments to build the capacity of the nonprofit network as a whole. The Program coordinates training for nonprofits and City staff and individualized coaching for nonprofits. These activities support City staff in their monitoring roles and nonprofits to create and maintain strong financial management practices. Services are targeted to nonprofits in contract with the City and the City staff that conduct contract management and monitoring activities with nonprofits.
Website: https://sfcontroller.org/citywide-nonprofit-monitoring-and-capacity-building-program
Office of Economic Workforce Development (OEWD):
San Francisco Non-Profit Impact Accelerator
As part of the Nonprofit Sustainability Initiative, OEWD worked with partner agencies and La Piana Consulting to launch the Nonprofit Impact Accelerator. The Nonprofit Impact Accelerator was created for nonprofits who seek to increase effectiveness or improve their financial health through partnership. For many nonprofits, the path to long-term stability and greater impact has included strategic restructurings such as co-location, administrative service partnerships, and joint programming. Organizations of all sizes can use the partnership to respond to change but need dedicated resources to successfully explore and evaluate opportunities.
Website: https://oewd.org/impact-accelerator
Office of Economic Workforce Development (OEWD):
Direct Assistance to Non-Profits
The Office of Economic and Workforce Development provides access to an array of resources, tailored to the needs of each organization, as well as training and education referrals suited to the needs of nonprofits providing arts access, legal aid, human services, workforce development, and other customized resources. Direct Assistance is accessed by over 100 nonprofits per year since 2018.
Mayor London Breed New First Year Free Program for Small Businesses
The program will waive first-year permit fees for small businesses and support the City’s economic recovery. The Citywide pilot program will waive first-year permits, initial licenses, and initial business registration fees for new small businesses. To qualify for First Year Free, a business must open a new ground floor commercial location between November 1, 2021, and October 31, 2022. Only small businesses with less than $2 million in San Francisco gross receipts are eligible, and the program is not applicable to formula retail locations.
Who to Contact / Where to Go:
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Permits:
In-Person Services
The San Francisco Permit Center at 49 South Van Ness is open during the following hours:
- 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday
- 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Wednesday
Contact: (628) 652-4900
Email: permitcenter@sfgov.org
The following Over-the-Counter (OTC) services will be available during Permit Center hours:
- OTC without Plans
- OTC with Plans – same-day sign-up or appointment required
- OTC Plan Review
- Trades Permits (plumbing, roofing, etc.)
- SF Public Works Permits – Street Space & Sidewalk Repair
- SF Planning Consultations – Including Design Review
- Commercial projects (Commercial tenant improvement projects, Office or other B occupancy remodels, Power door operators, Permits to comply with the Accessible Business Entrance program)
Website: https://sf.gov/topics/over-counter-otcpermits
Central Permit Bureau (CPB)
CPB accepts and issues construction, electrical, plumbing, and street space permits for public and private buildings within the City and County of San Francisco. Assesses and collects fees for all structures, building enlargements, and changes of use.
Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm
Contact: (628) 652-3240
Fax: (628) 652-3249
Website: https://sfdbi.org/permit-process-issuance
Initial Permit Review (IPR)
IPR provides proactive, professional, and consistent customer service in reviewing building permit applications and plans prior to review by plan review disciplines.
Email: dbi.iprrequest@sfgov.org
Website: https://sfdbi.org/permit-process-issuance
Permit Processing Center (PPC)
The primary functions of PPC are to ensure the movement of building permit applications between the different stations and bureaus of DBI prior to being routed to CPB for issuance. This team handles cancellation notices and revisions given by the Planning Department, including permit applications filed for appeals with the Board of Appeals.
Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm
Contact: (628) 652-3600
Fax: (628) 652-3609
Email: dbi.ppcrequest@sfgov.org
Website: https://sfdbi.org/permit-process-issuance
Technical Services Division (DBI)
General questions and assistance with the San Francisco Building Code.
Hours; Mon, Tues, Thur, Fri: 7:30 am to 11:30 pm; Weds 9:00 am to 11:30 pm
Contact: (415) 558-6205
Fax: (415) 558-6401
Email: techq@sfgov.org
Websites
- https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/launch-your-business/apply-licenses-permits
- https://sfplanning.org/permits
- https://businessportal.sfgov.org/permits-licenses
Common Types of Licenses / Permits
- Alcoholic Beverages: Necessary if you manufacture, wholesale, import, or sell alcoholic beverages at a retail location.
- Building: A building permit may be needed from the city or county building and planning department if there is any construction or renovations to a facility. Only licensed contractors and property owners (Owner/Builder) may be issued building permits.
OTC commercial permits:
- Commercial tenant improvement projects
- Office or other B occupancy remodels
- Power door operators
- Permits to comply with the Accessible Business Entrance program
All commercial building projects require architectural plans. Hire a designer or architect.
Create your building project plans. Bring 2 sets of plans when you submit your building permit application.
All other commercial projects must be reviewed in-house.
Fill out multiple forms including this building permit form: https://sf.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/Form-3-8-Fillable-2020-04-07-FINAL.pdf
- Seller’s Permit: You must obtain a seller’s permit if you:
- Are engaged in business in California, and
- Intend to sell or lease tangible personal property that would ordinarily be subject to sales tax if sold at retail.
The requirement to obtain a seller’s permit applies to:
- Corporations
- Individuals
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
- Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
- Limited Partnerships (LPs)
- Partnerships
- Married Co-ownerships
- Registered Domestic Partnerships
- Organizations
Both wholesalers and retailers must apply for a permit. If you do not hold a seller’s permit and will make sales during temporary periods, such as Christmas tree sales and rummage sales, you must apply for a temporary seller’s permit. Such permits are normally issued to selling operations lasting no longer than 30 days at one location. For additional information or registering for a permit, license, or account visit website at www.cdtfa.ca.gov and select Permit and Licenses, or you may contact Customer Service Center at 1-800-400-7115 (CRS:711), Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Pacific time), except state holidays.
- Resale Certificate: Purchasers who are engaged in the business of selling tangible personal property may issue resale certificates when purchasing items they will sell in the regular course of their business operations. When a seller accepts a valid resale certificate in good faith and in a timely manner, the seller does not owe tax on that sale. CDTFA-230, General Resale Certificate, can be issued by purchasers when purchasing goods they will resell in the regular course of their business operations.
Generally, resale certificates are used:
- When purchasing finished items for resale.
- When buying materials that will become a physical part of an item that will be held for resale.
- When purchasing items solely for demonstration or display while holding them for sale in the regular course of business operations.
Purchasers should not use a resale certificate when buying a product they will:
- Use rather than sell
- Use in their business before they sell it
- Use for a personal purpose
- Hold as an investment for appreciation in value and for sale in the future
For more information you may contact Customer Service Center at 1-800-400-7115 (CRS:711)
- Cannabis Tax Permit:
Distributors and microbusinesses licensed to act as a distributor, of cannabis and cannabis products must obtain a cannabis tax permit and seller’s permit.
If you own a business in California that sells cannabis and/or cannabis products, you must register with the CDTFA for a seller's permit and regularly file sales and use tax returns. In addition to a seller's permit, if you are a distributor, or microbusiness licensed to act as a distributor, of cannabis and/or cannabis products, you must register with the CDTFA for a cannabis tax permit and regularly file cannabis tax returns.
For registration or information, please contact our Customer Service Center at: 1-800-400-7115 (CRS:711)
- Cigarette and Tobacco Products:
If you sell cigarettes and tobacco products at retail, you must have a California Cigarette and Tobacco Products Retailer's License before purchasing or selling cigarettes or tobacco products. *You must obtain this license in addition to your seller's permit.
(Manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, and retailers) These entities are required to obtain and maintain a license in order to sell cigarettes or tobacco products in California. Distributors, wholesalers, and retailers must obtain a separate license for each location where they will sell cigarettes or tobacco products. These entities may purchase/sell cigarettes and tobacco products only from/to other licensed entities along the supply chain.
Tobacco products distributors are also required to hold a license under the Cigarette and Tobacco Products Tax Law for tax reporting and remitting purposes. In addition, cigarette and tobacco products wholesalers are required to hold a license under the Cigarette and Tobacco Products Tax Law for information reporting purposes.
Depending on your business operations, you may be required to obtain more than just a California cigarette and tobacco products license.
Visit the CalGold website at https://www.calgold.ca.gov for help with permit and licensing requirements by local authorities as well as other state or federal authorities.
For registration or more information regarding exceptions, definitions etc., please contact our Customer Service Center at 1-800-400-7115 (CRS:711)
*License Periods:
- Retailers: A retailer's license is valid for a 12-month period. A retailer that adds an additional retail location will renew the retailer's license for that retail location based on a 12-month period beginning in the month that the retailer's license for the first retail location was obtained.
- Wholesalers and Distributors: A wholesaler or distributor's license is valid for one calendar year (January through December).
- Emergency Permits: Examples of emergency projects include damage to a building from a fire or flooding, compromised gas lines or sewers, foundation or structural issues, or other serious issues affecting the habitability of a building. If the permit you’re filing is in response to an emergency event at your property, please contact dbi.emergencyresponse@sfgov.org for assistance.
- Occupational Licenses: A variety of occupations in the state are regulated and need to be registered before offering certain services. A few common professions that require licensing in California include; auto repair shops, cosmetologists, pest control, and many more.
More information regarding specific licenses: https://www.dca.ca.gov/
For additional assistance, call the Consumer Information Center Contact: (800) 952-5210 || Hearing-impaired persons: 711, or 1-800-735-2929 (TTY)
California Relay Service Contact: 1-800-735-2922 (Voice)
- Transportation: The Department of Transportation has the discretionary authority to issue special permits for the movement of vehicles/loads exceeding statutory limitations on the size, weight, and loading of vehicles. Requests for such special permits require the completion of an application for a Transportation Permit.
For more info on different Transportation permits, visit the California Transportation operations Website: https://dot.ca.gov/programs/traffic-operations
- Sign Permit: The Planning Department regulates the types and sizes of signage in San Francisco.
To obtain permits to install or erect signs, the applicant shall complete Form 4/7, including the total job cost, and submit two sets of plans (minimum size 11”x17”). All plans shall be signed by the person preparing the plans. Form 4/7 shall be used for all signs including but not limited to signs attached to structures, monument signs, and post-mounted signs, except where noted elsewhere in this information sheet.
The plans shall indicate the aggregate signage area and shall include a plot plan, proposed front and side building elevations on scaled drawings, the exact location of the sign(s) horizontally and vertically on the building and on the lot unless painted or other non-structural sign. Sidewalk width and sign construction shall be shown as required. As per San Francisco Building Code Section 11B-202.4 exception 6, there is no requirement for a path of travel upgrades or DA checklist associated with the addition or replacement of signs.
Illumination details for signs, marquees, etc., and structural details shall also be shown including the method of attachment and the construction of the sign. Provide height of sign above ground and the projection in feet from the building.
Website: https://sfdbi.org/sites/default/files/IS%20G-04%20dated%2004-15-14.pdf
Planning Department Contact: (415) 558-6377 or at the website https://www.sf-planning.org/.
- Street Space Permit: A street space permit grants permission to temporarily occupy a portion of a public roadway or sidewalk for building construction and other construction-related work. Material and equipment may not occupy more than 1/3 of the roadway width and not more than 1/2 of the sidewalk width unless an additional street space permit is granted per Article 15, Section 724 Public Works Code. The street space permit fee calculator may be used to estimate the permit fee for your project.
A street space permit is required for any occupancy within the public right of way for construction and other purposes. Examples include:
-
New construction or major renovation of existing structures
-
Minor building repair including roofing, scaffolding, landscaping, etc. where the public street or sidewalk is occupied
-
Reserving parking in the street for use related improvements to the fronting private property
-
Placement of contractor offices, portable toilets, and/or equipment, debris boxes in the public right of way
Application: https://bsm.sfdpw.org/streetspacerequest/NewRequest.aspx
Website: https://www.sfpublicworks.org/services/permits/street-space
Contact: (628) 271-2000
Additional Resources
For more information and specifics on permits and licenses:
- CalGold – Provides information about other federal, state, or local government permits that may be required for your business. Website: https://www.calgold.ca.gov/
- Small Business Permit Assistance - Some businesses are eligible for a 30-day review for business permits under Proposition H. Prop H created this streamlined review and approval process for small business permits. Email: CPC.SmallBiz@sfgov.org || Website: https://sf.gov/step-by-step/get-your-small-business-permits-30-day-review
- San Francisco Business Portal || Permit Locator: Find and submit permits, licenses, and forms that apply to your business by trying the search field or drilling down by type. Website: https://businessportal.sfgov.org/permits-licenses
San Francisco Office of Small Business:
Small Business Assistance Center
- Labor requirements: Learn about regulations that help protect workers and about workers’ benefits. For more information: https://businessportal.sfgov.org/grow/hire-employees/labor-requirements
- First Source Hiring Program: The First Source Hiring Program requires that developers, contractors, and employers utilize good faith efforts toward employing economically disadvantaged San Franciscan residents for entry-level positions on applicable projects. The Program provides a ready supply of qualified workers to employers with hiring needs, and it gives economically disadvantaged individuals the first opportunity to apply for entry-level jobs in San Francisco. Entry-level positions are defined as those requiring less than two years of training or specific preparation and shall include temporary and permanent jobs.
- Participate in the First Source Hiring Program if your business meets any one of the following three criteria:
- Awarded a City of SF contract that's over $50,000
- Lease space of any size from the City of San Francisco
- Lease space of any size in any building that is over 25,000 square feet
- Email: business.services@sfgov.org
- Contact: martha.yanez@sfgov.org
- Website: https://oewd.org/first-source
PRC
- PRC’s Workforce Development provides individualized employment services and a variety of vocational and skills-based training to low-income, health-challenged, and disabled adults who want to pursue their vocational interests, dignified work, expanding economic stability, and opportunities for career advancement.
- Contact: (415) 777 - 0333
- Website: https://prcsf.org/employment-services/
JobsNOW!
- Aims to provide support to businesses through the recruitment of new employees and reimbursement of wages for employees hired through JobsNOW!, meaning they’ll pay for employees’ full salaries at no cost to you for the first three months. Over the second three months, a partial wage reimbursement will be provided. This flexible program allows for the hiring of new staff or rehiring of staff. In addition, access to a pre-screened pool of job applicants and advertising support for job openings will be provided.
- Website: https://www.sfhsa.org/services/jobs-money/jobsnow
AlphaGraphics
Marketing and Printing Company
Business printing services offered:
- Printing of flyers, banners, posters, etc.,
- Manuals, Catalogs, folders of any type
- Signs can come in different types of materials (acrylic, aluminum, etc.) made for different types of surfaces (window, door, etc.)
Marketing services offered:
- Support in establishing brand or identity
- Graphic design
- Customer retention and reactivation
- Presence on social media and other media types
Contact: (415) 781-4910
Website: https://www.alphagraphics.com/us-california-san-francisco-us684
San Francisco Media Group
Video production services and support to the production community, broadcasters, public relations, and corporate communication.
Services offered:
- Live stream production
- Film testimonial, corporate, advertising videos
- Graphics and post-production
- And more!
Contact: (415) 434-1027
E-mail: info@sfmediagroup.net
Website: https://www.sanfranciscomediagroup.com
Essential 3 Consulting
Marketing consulting firm here to help You Build Valuable, Reliable Relationships with the Right Customers for Your Business.
Contact: (415) 579-2775
Website: https://www.essentials3.com
Small Business Exchange
SBE offers an effective, low-cost, customized marketing campaign service that gives small businesses an opportunity to effectively present themselves to a targeted market.
Reach your market through SBE’s 4-step process:
- Deliver your message through email, fax, or mail to a targeted market
- Print and electronic advertising
- Telephone follow-up
- Reports
Customization Options:
- Message/Design Layout
- Press Releases
- Site Linking
- Website Hosting
- Web Banners
- Phone Apps
Contact: 415-778-6250 || Toll Free: 800-800-8534
Email: sbe@sbeinc.com
Website: https://www.sbeinc.com
Gumas
A full-service branding, advertising, and interactive agency that offers research, strategy development, award-winning creative design, web development, digital media (including search, social media, and everything in between).
Contact: (415) 621-7575
Website: https://gumas.com/connect
Mackenzie Communications
A marketing communications firm. Provides strategic communications, media relations, branding design, and more provided.
Contact: (415) 403 - 0800
Email: sarah@mackenziesf.com
Website: https://www.mackenziesf.com
MEDA
Digital Opportunity Center
MEDA’s Digital Opportunity Center is a San Francisco CERTIPORT Microsoft Office Specialist Testing Center, offering Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint 2010 Specialist Exams. We have an open computer lab on Monday through Friday from 1 pm to 5 pm. People can also learn about low-cost internet and computer options.
Email: tech@medasf.org
Chamber Ambassadors Club
- No one makes more connections than Chamber Ambassadors! Ambassadors are member volunteers who help educate and engage new and prospective members, while actively extending their own business contacts and the visibility of their company.
- Only Chamber Members can join the Ambassadors Club.
- Contact: Michelle Londono, michelle@proactiveway.com
Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center
- Organizes a variety of events for networking and learning opportunities. Coordinates with other organizations to partake in or promote events.
- Contact: info@rencenter.org || (415) 541-8580
- Website: https://www.rencenter.org/calendar
PCV: Small Business Support Circle
- Pacific Community Ventures is bringing together a rapidly growing coalition of companies and organizations invested in the success and resilience of small businesses across the United States. Members of the PCV Small Business Support Circle are helping to get millions of dollars of free advice into the hands of job-creating small business owners by leveraging and scaling PCV’s unique BusinessAdvising.org platform to provide small businesses the support they need to survive and thrive, pivot, and reopen safely.
- Contact: (415) 442-4300
- Website: https://www.pacificcommunityventures.org/small-business-services/small-businesssupport-circle/
Golden Gate Business Association
GGBA members know there is strength in numbers. We use our collective strength to help members network, grow their businesses, and gain many advantages that would be difficult or impossible on their own. Our sense of community and resource sharing is valuable to our members’ success as we are an entree into an LGBT market with a national buying power of $790 billion and a Bay Area buying power of $20 billion.
GGBA provides many opportunities including:
- Development
- Savings
- Networking - Attend GGBA networking events and connect with LGBT businesses in your community
- Marketing Opportunities:
Complimentary search engine optimized, social media-enabled online directory listing.
Advertising opportunities to reach your target market through GGBA.com online banner and special event programs
Chamber partnership and event sponsorship opportunities
- Referral Opportunities:
Business lead opportunities from GGBA.com, networking events, and phone/email requests to GGBA
- Procurement Opportunities:
Certify your business as an LGBT-owned Business Enterprise (LGBTBE), through the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (My.NGLCC.org), at no additional cost
Attend Supplier Roundtables to connect with other LGBTBEs and corporate procurement leader
Contact: (415) 862-4422
Email: Info@GGBA.com
Website: https://ggba.com/resources-lgbtq-businesses
Start Small Think Big
Based upon your business needs, Start Small Think Big will set up free legal, finance, and/or marketing assistance that will be fulfilled over the next 12 months. We currently offer workshops, consultations, and project-based support.
Start Small Think Big partners with small business owners in marginalized communities, including communities of color, women, LGBTQIA+ communities, immigrant communities, veterans, people with disabilities, people with low, and formerly incarcerated individuals; serving small business owners who are currently operating and selling goods/services and can demonstrate recurring sales of at least $500 within the past three months.
Businesses must also have less than $1M in revenue over the last 12 months. Applicants must have a household income under 750% Federal Poverty Guidelines, and the household must have less than $100,000 in assets.
Upon submitting your application, our team will review and process your application within approximately five business days. Once your application is approved, you will be invited to schedule an onboarding meeting with our team.
Contact: (646) 723-4053 ext. 101
Email: hello@startsmallthinkbig.org
SF LGBT CENTER: Small Business Consulting
From testing your idea to launching and growing your business, the Center offers ongoing support for entrepreneurs to bring their businesses to life. Through one-on-one coaching, clients have the opportunity to meet with a business specialist who will review their current situation, assess their needs and work with them to develop a concrete action plan.
Contact: Small Business Consultant, Eddie Tang - SBConsultant@sfcenter.org
SF LGBT Center: New Entrepreneur Training Program
An eight-week training program where five to seven new entrepreneurs from different businesses (pre-existing or not) will work as a cohort in a mutually supportive environment to develop their respective businesses from the ground up.
The program is currently open to individuals and businesses in San Francisco only. The program will cover all aspects of creating and running a new business, which includes marketing, business finance, entity formation, strategic planning, organizational planning, and operational planning. The program will also invite industry experts to act as guest speakers during classes.
The eight-week program will be broken down into three-hour-long lectures and in-class exercises led by the small business consultant at the LGBT Center once a week with occasional guest speakers and weekly assignments for the entrepreneurs to complete outside of class. At the end of the program, the entrepreneurs will present their business plans to a panel of judges, which will include lawyers, serial entrepreneurs, business consultants, and potential investors/lenders, and a winner will be chosen based on select criteria to receive the $5000 grant offered by Hatch. Applications are year-round on a rolling basis and a new cohort starts around every nine weeks.
Contact: Small Business Consultant, Eddie Tang - SBConsultant@sfcenter.org
SF LGBT CENTER: Small Business Workshops
The SF LGBT Center Small Business Program offers small business workshops on different topics including marketing, finance, business planning, business law, and more, to help small business owners gain useful knowledge to run their business effectively.
Contact: Small Business Consultant, Eddie Tang - SBConsultant@sfcenter.org
SF LGBT CENTER: Transgender Employment Program (TEP)
A collaborative program designed to help create inclusive workplaces and jobs for trans people. TEP provides a wide range of services including job referrals and career coaching; navigating being out at work or transitioning on the job; resume review and managing references; hiring and community events, and legal service.
Contact: Small Business Consultant, Eddie Tang - SBConsultant@sfcenter.org
Start Small Think Big
Based upon your business needs, Start Small Think Big will set up free legal, finance, and/or marketing assistance that will be fulfilled over the next 12 months. We currently offer workshops, consultations, and project-based support.
Start Small Think Big partners with small business owners in marginalized communities, including communities of color, women, LGBTQIA+ communities, immigrant communities, veterans, people with disabilities, people with low, and formerly incarcerated individuals. Serving small business owners who are currently operating and selling goods/services and can demonstrate recurring sales of at least $500 within the past three months. Businesses must also have less than $1M in revenue over the last 12 months. Applicants must have a household income under 750% Federal Poverty Guidelines, and the household must have less than $100,000 in assets. Upon submitting your application, our team will review and process your application within approximately five business days. Once your application is approved, you will be invited to schedule an onboarding meeting with our team.
Contact: hello@startsmallthinkbig.org || (646) 723-4053 ext. 101
Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center
(1) - Renaissance Women’s Business Center: Women’s Entrepreneurship program/ Bayview Women
The 12-week program provides training, mentorship, peer support, and networking to aspiring women entrepreneurs in the Bayview Hunters Point community. Upon competition of the program, participants are eligible to participate in a pitch contest, “RenTank,” for a cash prize to help launch their businesses
Contact: Jenny Wong at jwong@rencenter.org || bayview@rencenter.org || (415) 647-3728
(2) - Renaissance Women’s Business Center: Women’s Leadership Council
The Women’s Leadership Council was founded to establish a deeper support system for Renaissance women entrepreneurs that goes beyond training. It is a growing group of exceptional Bay Area business and corporate women providing much-needed financial support through their own contributions and fundraising efforts, and offering vision and guidance to help evolve this program further. We are actively seeking other like-minded women to join our Women’s Leadership Council and help us expand our services and programs to serve more women in the Bay Area. We all have experiences and knowledge to share with these talented and inspiring women. As part of the Women’s Leadership council you will also enjoy engaging with the Renaissance clients at our Popup Advisors sessions, and networking and mentoring events, while networking with your Council peers as we help the higher motivated women achieve new heights in our communities. We need you, and your community needs you. Please join us in this vision.
Contact: Lucero DeLeon at IdeLeon@rencenter.org || (415) 348 - 6217
(3) - Renaissance Women’s Business Center: Established Women
The program offers free, customized, one-on-one, consulting services for San Francisco-established women business owners. Participants are offered support in developing growth strategies, improving operations, marketing, social media management, etc. Participants are also invited to monthly networking events to connect with other women entrepreneurs.
Contact: Lucero DeLeon at IdeLeon@rencenter.org
Chase: Minority Entrepreneurs program
Chase for Business has launched the Minority Entrepreneurs Initiative in the Bay Area as part of its commitment to helping advance racial equity.
The goal of this initiative is to accelerate small business growth in historically underserved neighborhoods with a focus on women, minorities, and veterans. This is led by Sr. Business Consultant Nykole Prevost, through a solution-centered approach the initiative prioritizes education, coaching, advising, and leveraging resources with a purpose of sustainable growth and participation in the small business ecosystem. Ultimately, Chase provides one-on-one mentorship while harnessing a team of experts to promote a path forward customized for each business.
Their focus is on small businesses in the Bay Area that:
- Have been in operation for 2 years or more
- Have at least $100K in annual revenue
- Have 51% or more of the company owned by a person of color, woman, and/or veteran.
Chase is acutely focused on providing solutions that address the unique needs of small business owners and they look forward to empowering more small businesses alongside their community.
Contact: Nykole Prevost at nykole.prevost@chase.com
MEDA: Workforce Development Program
Helps San Francisco’s low- and moderate-income job seekers obtain and retain living-wage, long-term employment, complemented by access to opportunities for career growth.
All services are provided in English and Spanish at our Mission neighborhood center. Participants will get connected to technology, learn computer skills, prepare for job interviews, connect to job training opportunities, strengthen your finances, and more for free! NOTE: Every client will be required to attend a Welcome Orientation and Financial Capability Workshop before they can start working with a coach. (The exception is our First-Time Homebuyers workshop clients, which is part of Housing Opportunities.) These orientations are offered in both Spanish and English.
Contact: workforce@medasf.org || (415) 282-3334 ext. 101
MEDA: Business Development
The program provides a comprehensive array of services that ensure clients develop the core competencies necessary to start, manage and expand a business. Services are offered through English and Spanish language workshops and one-on-one consultations.
Services include:
- Prepare a business plan
- Start and expand your business, plus commercial lease negotiation
- Prepare a marketing plan to attract and retain customers
- Apply for a low-interest, small-business loan (Community Loan Fund at MEDA)
- Use technology to improve your business
- Learn marketing and social media skills
- Strengthen your personal finances for successful business ownership
Contact: business@medasf.org || (415) 282-3334 ext. 101
MEDA: Financial Capability
MEDA’S Financial Education & Coaching Program provides free, dynamic Spanish and English workshops and comprehensive one-on-one coaching for low- and moderate-income individuals and families seeking robust financial health and support services.
With a primary focus on improving credit scores, raising income, increasing savings / reducing debt, this comprehensive program is always coupled with action planning and next steps. MEDA’s expert coaches work with clients to achieve outcomes and progress at three, six, nine, and 12 months.
Contact: financialed@medasf.org || (415) 282-3334 ext. 101
South East Asian Community Center (SEACC)
The Southeast Asian Community Center (SEACC) is a multi-service nonprofit that provides business support services including one-on-one technical assistance, credit evaluation and repair, business plan development, financial projections, marketing, business expansions, technology, and computer help, interpretation, and translation services, and loan packaging to small businesses in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area.
SEACC also makes commercial loans of up to $35,000 to low-income entrepreneurs and small business owners. These services can be provided in Vietnamese, Cantonese, Mandarin, and English.
- Technical Assistance for Small Businesses
For San Francisco-based clients, we provide assistance on marketing, licenses/permits, lease negotiations, buy/sell agreements, business plan development, and small business loans.
For new clients outside of San Francisco and in the Greater Bay Area, technical assistance services are primarily focused on Microloan financing.
- Loan Fund
The SEACC, in coordination with the SBA, can provide loans for small businesses that need up to $50,000 for an existing or start-up business. Typically, the business applications will have been unable to qualify for a conventional bank loan. Term loans for 2-4 years. No lines of credit. The business must be located in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. After a loan is made, the SEACC can provide ongoing technical assistance to borrowers at no cost.
Contact: info@seaccusa.org || (415) 885-2743
NAWBO Institute Virtual Environment
To make it easy for women business owners to work on their business when they can, the NAWBO Institute provides training and resources through a combination of online educational programs and the opportunity to convene virtually.
Using cutting-edge technology, the NAWBO Institute Virtual Platform helps provide webinars, workshops, networking and consulting opportunities, and education for Women Business owners, partners, and supporters with measurable and significant impact. If you are not a NAWBO member, WELCOME! To take your Free Test Drive of the NAWBO Institute Virtual Environment - Simply complete the short membership profile by reaching out to the below representatives:
Contact: Suzanne Lanctot at suzanne@nawbo-sfba.org || Nooshin Behroyan at nbehroyan@paxonei.com
Hebrew Free Loans
Business Loan
Range: up to $50,000
The Hebrew Free Business Loan can help launch or expand your small business with an interest-free loan. As part of the loan review process, a committee of experienced entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals will provide feedback on your business plan and guidance on your path forward. Interested loan recipients are invited to take part in the Business Circle program, which offers networking, mentorship, and professional development in a wide range of business areas. Events include an annual Business Circle luncheon, periodic after-hours mixers, and our monthly video series, Food for Thought. Applicants must be Jewish residents of Northern California unless one of the following applies:
(1) Work for a Jewish organization in Northern California
(2) Referred for a student loan by a Hebrew Free Loan partner agency
(3) Applying for a business loan in partnership with a Northern California Jewish resident
Coronavirus Impact Loan
Range: up to $20,000
For those who have been financially impacted by the ongoing pandemic and as a result in need of financial assistance. Loans are offered to Jewish individuals throughout Northern California and to all employees of Northern California Jewish organizations (regardless of religion). Loans can assist with needs such as rent & mortgage payments; food, insurance; property taxes; small business expenses.
Debt Consolidation
Range: up to $20,000
Find relief from the burden of high-interest debt and get on the road to financial health with a debt consolidation loan through the Hebrew Free Loan of San Francisco. If your credit cards have become unmanageable and you don’t see a way out, we may be able to help you lower your payments and get out of debt more quickly. You can pay off credit cards, payday loans, car loans, personal lines of credit as well as past-due rent and utility bills.
If you are unsure which loan type to choose, contact the Hebrew Free Loan and a loan officer will work with you to determine the loan that works best for you.
Contact: info@hflasf.org || (415) 546 - 9902 x110
Chamber Resources
Partner Portal
SF Chamber Members can log in to our Member Information Center for full Chamber benefits, including member-to-member deals, job posting portal, event calendar, member directory, and contact information, and more. Log in here.
Incentives & Resources
The San Francisco Center for Economic Development, one of the Chamber’s foundation partners, provides a robust collection of incentives and resources helpful to small businesses.
SFCED incentives & resources
SF Chamber + VISA Present: Business Practical Skills
Visa sees micro and small businesses as the backbone of the global economy. Visa's goal is to empower these enterprises and improve their livelihoods, ultimately creating a ripple effect throughout their communities. With greater financial and business knowledge, micro and small entrepreneurs can better manage their money and make confident, informed decisions about their businesses. Visa’s Practical Business Skills offers free educational resources and interactive tools to help business owners around the globe start, manage and grow their businesses to help their communities prosper. Visit this Resource Page for more information.