Starting a new business can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. We'll guide you through the steps you need to complete to get up and running fast, and connect you to resources that will help you succeed.

1. Conduct Market Research

Starting a business is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to begin. That’s where market research comes in! Think of it as your roadmap to success. Market research helps you understand who your customers are, what they need, and how your business can stand out. It gives you valuable insights into your competition, helps you make informed decisions, and saves you time and money in the long run. By taking this important first step, you’re building a strong foundation for your business to grow and thrive.  

2. Create a Business Plan

A solid business plan is the backbone of every successful business. Take the time to explore and evaluate your business and personal goals before you go any further with your idea. Then use this information to build a comprehensive and well-thought-out business plan that will help you reach these goals. The process of developing a business plan will help you think through some important issues that you may not have considered yet. Your plan will become a valuable tool as you set out to raise money for your business. It should also provide milestones to gauge your success. 

3. Fund Your Business

Every business needs capital at some point, whether to start up or expand. This often comes from personal savings, home equity, or support from friends and family, but many entrepreneurs also turn to business loans or financing programs offered by federal, state, and local governments. You don’t have to do it all alone! Take advantage of free counseling and training programs designed to set you up for success. From low-cost business training and free mentoring to guidance on selling to government, accessing capital, or expanding internationally, there are countless resources available to help you start and grow your business.

• Alameda County Small Business Development Center
• Business Information and Data
• California Employment Development Department
• Commercial P G & E Customers
• Commercial Recycling Services Summary
• East Bay Economic Development Alliance
• Hayward Chamber of Commerce
• Rubicon Programs, Inc.
• Small Business Administration
• California Governor's Office of Business & Economic Development 

4. Choose a Location

Deciding where to locate your business might be the single most important choice you make when launching a new venture. Hayward is filled with retail, industrial, office and flex space opportunities. Contact our Economic Development staff for site location assistance at econdev@hayward-ca.gov or by phone at (510) 583-5540. 

5. Choose a Business Legal Structure

For operating and reporting purposes, your business needs a structure. The shape your business takes is up to you. Your form of business determines the amount of paperwork you have to file, your personal liability regarding investments into your business, and the taxes you have to pay. When determining your business structure, it's often worthwhile to consult an attorney or tax professional for expert guidance on how to best position your business and achieve your goals.
Learn more from the California Office of Small Business Advocate 

6. Choose a Fictitious Business Name

Any person or entity carrying on a trade of business under a name which does not include the owners’ last name and portray the nature of the business requires filing a fictitious business name statement. If Gary Grabowski owns a sole proprietorship that sells heirloom garlic, and he calls the business "Gary Grabowski Garlic," he doesn't need a fictitious business name. If, however, he calls the business, "Garlic Gary" or "Tasty Olde Time Garlic Shoppe," he would need to file. This step must be completed with Alameda County prior to obtaining a Business Tax (license) from the City of Hayward. Public notices announcing your new business name must be posted for four weeks in the local newspaper to complete the registration process.

Contact:
Alameda County Clerk-Recorder’s Office
1106 Madison Street, Oakland, CA 94607
(888) 280-7708

Local Newspapers:

The Tri-City Voice
(510) 494-1999 

7. Register for Tax ID

Register with the state of California and the federal government for a Federal Employer Identification Number, and find out about corporate, payroll, income, and sales tax. In doing so, you'll also be able to learn about different tax assistance programs for small businesses.

All businesses are required to file both State and Federal tax returns. Contact the State Franchise Tax Board and the federal Internal Revenue Service to learn more about specific requirements. If you're selling a product, the California Board of Equalization can assist you in determining whether you need a seller’s permit. You may also be required to collect sales tax. If so, you'll need a resale number from the Board of Equalization in order to report the sales tax.

To operate a business in Hayward you need to apply for a business license and pay a business tax. Non-profit organizations are required to register through the Revenue Division.

Apply by downloading the application here

All applications may be submitted by email to businesslicense@hayward-ca.gov.

Other Requirements:

Certain types of businesses or events, such as door-to-door selling, public dances, and street vendors, may require other permits or clearances.

Certain businesses, such as non-profit organizations, are excluded or exempted from payment of the business tax. These businesses must file an Affidavit for Exemption with proof of exemption. The exemption is approved by the Hayward Police Department and may require additional approval from the Planning and Fire Departments.

To view the Business License section of the Hayward Municipal Code, please click here. 

8. Register for Permits and Licenses

Depending on the nature of your business and whether you'll be making improvements to your building, you may require site inspections by the Fire and/or Police Department as part of your application approval, as well as permits for signage or special activities. Visit our online permit center for more information and to download available applications.

The Permit Center is a “one-stop” location in City Hall for the review of development projects and building plans. Representatives of Planning, Building, Engineering, Landscape and the Fire Department answer questions and assist you with your project. There is also a self-help area where you may research zoning and permitting history of a building or project. Many records may be copied for a nominal charge. Application for land use permits and construction, demolition and encroachment permits may be made at the Permit Center. Minor permits (termite repair, window replacement, re-roofing, water heater replacement and signs) are frequently issued over the counter in a single visit to the Permit Center.

Larger projects are subject to more complex regulations and will require a longer review period. The extent of review required depends on the use or occupancy type of the structure, the location and the impact of construction on the environment.

Projects are reviewed for compliance with:

• Zoning requirements
• General Plan
• Building and Fire Codes (including hazardous materials)
• Landscape requirements
• Hayward Municipal Code
• Subdivision Map Act
• Other established development policies

Permit Center Location:

City Hall - Lobby Level
777 B Street, 1st Floor
Hayward, CA 94541

Permit Center Hours:

Monday – Thursday 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Closed Fridays

9. Hire Employees

Learn the legal steps you need to take to hire new employees. There are specific federal, state and local requirements regarding equal opportunity employment, employee safety and health protection, taxes and insurance – find out more with these resources.
Learn more from the Governor's Office of Business & Economic Development

9. Open your Business

You’ve done the hard work—now it’s time to open your business and bring your vision to life! This is your moment to celebrate and share your dream with the world. Make sure everything is ready for your big day, from securing your location and setting up your operations to marketing your grand opening. Opening your business is just the beginning of an exciting journey, and we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way. Welcome to your new chapter as a business owner!

Download Quick Guide Starting a Business