Small Business Resources

Thinking about opening a small business? Start here:

How to Start a Business in Lakewood

Help for small or new businesses

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Long Beach City College is a great local resource, providing one-on-one counseling and introductory business training seminars in:

  • Marketing
  • Financing
  • Business start-up
  • International trade
  • Procurement programs

The LBCC center is part of California's regional small business development programs, which are part of the U.S. Small Business Administration's national network of centers.

Visit the SBDC website

Lakewood businesses should learn more about the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and the many services it offers. 

Visit the Lakewood Chamber website

The Center for International Trade Development (CITD) partners with the SBDC to provide specialized services in international trade. Programs include consulting, training, technical assistance, procurement-matching opportunities, foreign market research and trade missions/shows.

Visit the CITD website

Job creation and retention help

The Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Investment Board (SELACO) can help with:

  • Business to Business resource links
  • No cost staffing assistance, recruitment, screening and referral of qualified job applicants
  • Corporate-Driven Customized Training
  • On-the-job training
  • State Funded On-Site Customized Training
  • Employee skill assessments
  • Labor market information
  • Professional transition & downsizing assistance

Visit SELACO's website

State of California resources

California's Office of the Small Business Advocate (CALOSBA) is full of information to help with starting, growing and managing your business. 

Visit the CAL-OSBA website

California Department of Tax and Fee Administration administers California's sales and use taxes. Get specific information about how to register for permits and licenses and how to file and report correctly.

Visit the CDTFA website

The CalGold website is a comprehensive website that assists business owners in finding the appropriate permit information for their business, and contact information for the various agencies that administer and issue permits.

Visit the CalGold website

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