When starting a new business there are many different aspects to consider. In Livonia we provide all of the local resources to help you succeed.

1. You need to have a business plan and register your business. The following link Business Planning Tools takes you to online tools provided by the Michigan Small Business and Technology and Development Center (MI-SBTDC) that includes: a comprehensive guide to starting a small business in Michigan, an interactive template for writing a business plan, links to register for applicable state taxes, and information to apply for a federal ID number. The SBTDC also provides free one-on-one small business and start-up business counseling and low cost training at their Schoolcraft College location in Livonia. They can be reached by calling 734-462-4438.

2. You will need to make sure you have the support of good advisors. It is important to find a good accountant, banker, attorney, and insurance agent. We suggest you look in the Find a Business section of this Web site to find high quality businesses in Livonia who are Chamber members.

3. If you are going to have a physical location for your business that requires any building, remodeling, landscaping, signage (including temporary signs), we suggest you start by talking with the citys Planning and Economic Development departments to set the stage for a successful and smooth opening. Their helpful staff will walk you through the process of permitting, inspections, and signage approvals. They can also highlight potential tax incentives, plus do what ever is possible to help your business get off to a successful start. The City of Livonia Planning Department can be contacted by calling 734-466-2290. You can also click here for access to the City of Livonia's Web site for more information on zoning, ordinances and site planning.

4. For a way to become quickly integrated into the community, the Livonia Chamber of Commerce is the place to go. From networking with potential customers and taking advantage of promotional opportunities, to working to build a better community, the Livonia Chamber of Commerce is here to be your business partner. To become a member, please explore the Chamber section on this Web site. You can contact the Chamber by calling 734-427-2122.

More information on the Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC)-Resources for small businesses and start-ups:

The Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center (MI-SBTDC) provides counseling, support and educational programs for small and start-up business. Located at Schoolcraft College, the SBTDC provides counseling, training, research and advocacy for "start-up, existing small businesses and innovative technology companies. As part of this program, they offer one-on-one management consulting and training programs tailored to the interest of small business owners and managers. In addition, the center also provides updates on issues facing small businesses and research ranging from general business practices to industry-specific inquiries. The MI-SBTDC at Schoolcraft College can be contacted at 734-462-4438.

Services Available:
Business Plan Assistance
Market Planning
Financial Projections
Capital Formation
Innovation and Technology Transfer
International Trade and Export Assistance
Minority and Women-owned Business Development
Research
Site Selection
Licensing Requirements

Click here for the MI-SBTDC at Schoolcraft College.

Registering a Business in Livonia, Michigan:
The following is a list of phone numbers and links to register a business.

Filing a Business Name (DBA):
Wayne County Clerks Office: 313-224-6262 (http://www.waynecounty.com/clerk/a_names.htm)

Michigan Online Business Start Up Wizard:
MESC: http://www.michigan.gov/businessstartup

Registration for Employer Identification Number (EIN):
IRS: 800-829-4933 (http://www.irs.gov/)

Michigan Tax Registration (Sales, Single Business, etc.):
Michigan Department of Treasury: 800-367-6236 (http://michigan.gov/treasury)

Creating a Corporation:
Department of Labor and Economic Growth: 517-241-6400 (http://www.michigan.gov/cis)

Receive Subchapter S Status:
IRS: 800-829-3676 (http://www.irs.gov/)

Michigan Certification and Licensing:
State of Michigan: http://www.michigan.gov/cis

Environmental Requirements:
Michigan Department of Environmental Quality: 1-800-662-9278 (http://www.michigan.gov/deq)

Unemployment Insurance:
Unemployment Insurance Agency: 800-636-3994 (http://www.michigan.gov/uia)

City of Livonia Licenses:
Certain businesses classifications are required to obtain a license to operate in Livonia. Those licenses are obtained from the City Clerks office. The phone number for this office is 734-466-2230. Click here to see if your business or operation requires a permit or license from the City Clerk's Office.