Resources
Business Resources
Starting or growing a business in Davis? Here are the local, state, and federal resources, and the free expert advising, that can help.
Free Expert Advising
Five minutes could transform your business
The Sacramento Valley Small Business Development Center offers free, one-on-one advising to Davis businesses, from business plans and funding to marketing and operations. An expert advisor can help you take the next step, at no cost to you.
Permits & Licensing
City of Davis
Registering and operating a business inside the city.
Business License (Business Tax Certificate)
Register your business and pay the city business tax. Handled by the City of Davis Finance Department.
City Economic Development
Site and location help, demographics, and business support from the City Manager's Office.
City Business Resources Hub
The city's central page linking small-business assistance, incentives, and agency contacts.
Permits & Licensing
Yolo County
Permits, planning, and health requirements at the county level.
Yolo County Building Permits
Building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits for unincorporated Yolo County.
Yolo County Planning
Land use, zoning, and development review for projects in the county.
Environmental Health (Food & Retail)
Health permits and inspections for restaurants, markets, and food facilities.
Advising & Mentoring
Local and regional help
Sacramento Valley SBDC
Free, confidential one-on-one business advising and low-cost workshops. Serving Yolo County. Call (916) 655-2100.
Davis Downtown Business Association
Promotion, events, and advocacy for downtown Davis businesses.
SCORE Capital Corridor
Free, confidential mentoring from experienced business volunteers, plus workshops.
State & Federal
Statewide and national resources
CalOSBA (CA Small Business Advocate)
The state office that helps small businesses find programs, funding, and navigate regulations.
California Business Portal (GO-Biz)
Register your business and reach state permit and regulatory assistance.
CalGold Permit Tool
A free tool that lists every local, state, and federal permit your specific business needs.
U.S. SBA, Sacramento District
Federal funding programs, counseling, and contracting help for Yolo-area businesses.
Why It Matters
Small business is the Davis economy
of all U.S. businesses are small businesses, 36.2 million of them. SBA Office of Advocacy, 2025
net new jobs are created by small businesses. SBA Office of Advocacy, 2024
of California businesses are small, employing 7.6 million people. SBA Office of Advocacy, 2024
of every dollar spent at a local independent business stays in the local economy, versus a chain. American Independent Business Alliance
Working Together
Our partner organizations
Links above lead to independent organizations and government agencies. They are offered as a convenience and are not endorsements.
Grow your business with the Chamber
Membership connects you to advisors, partners, and a community invested in your success.