As a small business owner you have budgeted and accounted for every dollar your business takes in. You understand the local state and federal tax laws that affect you. Your employees are efficient and support and project your business vision to your customers. You have realized the potential of your business, right?

A small business owner has to be the expert at every aspect of their business.

Information is the key. You need to organize and plan for the day, the week and the coming year. You need to be able to track inventory, manage storage, and maintain your equipment. Does this leave you time to research market trends, follow changes to laws and conduct staff training? Do you have the time to conduct market analysis, track your competition and understand and describe the cost-benefit of all of your products? Can you develop marketing strategies that will help you access a greater market share?

The Chamber’s Economic Development Program will connect you to resources that support you in these activities and provide a solid foundation for your business.

Our Economic Development Specialist provides business counseling on a range of issues including land-use planning, business plans, budgets, location, and city and other government regulations. The first half hour consultation is free of charge and provides a great overview of the  fundamental process of opening a business. Business consultation is available thereafter and billed on an hourly basis. Call 707-823-3032 to set up an appointment.

The Chamber of Commerce provides Sebastopol area residents and business owners a connection to the Small Business Development Center's SBA programs. These programs include low cost counseling to make existing business more cost effective, classes on how to write a business plan, and seminars on how to access start up funding.

To complete your business foundation a membership in the Chamber of Commerce provides you with powerful, low-cost marketing tools and networking with over 450 area businesses. The Chamber provides political advocacy for its members on a range of important topics. Add your voice to that of the Chamber's and make a difference on local business issues.