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Whether you're starting a new business or need guidance with your current business, we're here to help. Below is a quick guide for growing or starting your business in Payette. You can also contact us directly for general questions or for one-on-one guidance at business@cityofpayette.com or 208-642-6024.

  

STEP 1: Create Your Business Plan 

The first step to starting your business is creating a strong plan. Your business plan maps out funding, marketing, sales, organization, management and more. Here are some resources to help you get started:  

Idaho Small Business Development Center 

The Idaho SBDC empowers business success through no-cost and confidential consulting and affordable trainings to small businesses throughout our state, including assistance with researching and writing business and marketing plans.  The Oregon SBDC is also available to help and conveniently located nearby in Ontario, Oregon.

Small Business Administration 

The SBA offers programs to help start, build, and grow small businesses. Contact the Boise office at (208) 334-9004, extension 333; or visit the SBA's website. For business plan assistance, see Write your Business Plan.  

SCORE

The Service Corps of Retired Executives, SCORE, is a national volunteer organization of current and former business owners, managers, and executives who donate their time and expertise to counsel business owners at no charge. A SCORE counselor can assist in creating a business or marketing plan. There is a SCORE office located in Boise, or contact them at 208-334-1696.

 

 STEP 2: Find a Location and Check Zoning 

From getting enough office space, to capitalizing on foot traffic, to having enough room to expand - there's a lot that goes into finding your perfect business location. Before purchasing a property or entering into a lease, make sure to check the zoning of the property to make sure your business is approved for the area. Please call our business development office at 642-6024 to confirm local zoning. Below are online resources that can help you pin-point your ideal location:   

STEP 3:  Explore Financing Options  

You have a variety of local, state and federal options for funding your business. Get started by downloading the SBDC's guide to local financing options. For further guidance, contact the SBDC directly at this link or 1-800-225-3815. 

The Small Business Administration has many different funding options. Here is a link to check out different SBA Loan Programs 

The State of Idaho offers a variety of robust incentive packages for growing or relocating your business. Click here to see Idaho’s incentive programs. 

The City of Payette has made available strongly competitive incentive programs to expand or relocate your business in our City. Call our Business Development office for more information at 208-642-6024.  

  • Revolving Loan Fund  - The purpose of this program is to establish and offer loans to existing businesses and to encourage new business start-ups in the City of Payette.  

STEP 4:  Apply for Permits 

The simplest way to get permits is to apply online (when possible). We recommend contacting our business development office in advance to discuss your project and get your questions answered via business@cityofpayette.com or 208-642-6024. 

To get started, you can also check out these helpful permitting resources:  

Step 5: Get a Certificate of Occupancy 

A Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.), ensures you are safely and legally occupying a business space and your business meets all of the required regulations. This may be required even if you don't need a building permit. Learn more about getting your C.O. with this helpful guide.

Step 6: Register for a Business License  

All businesses must be registered with the City Finance Department. The majority of businesses only need to register once, and the license will be valid for the life of your business. There are some types of businesses which require an annual license renewal. The license must be clearly displayed at your business at all times. You can register by mail or in-person. 

For business licensing questions, contact business@cityofpayette.com or 208-642-6024.

Need Help? Contact Us! 

We love seeing new businesses start in our community and helping current businesses thrive. If you have any questions or would like someone to walk you through the process, contact our economic development specialists at business@cityofpayette.com or 208-642-6024.