The Sonoma Valley Economic Development Partnership is here to help you, whether you want to locate your business in Sonoma Valley, launch a start-up, or expand an existing business.
The Partnership is a collaboration of the City of Sonoma, Sonoma County, and the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce to provide business assistance and support for the Valley's economy.
If you are new to the area, we’ll provide demographic information, housing data, a contact for specialized workforce training and other assistance. We'll help you understand the approval process, and arrange meetings with key departments. We can introduce you to representatives of commercial properties for lease or sale, and provide you with information about financial resources.
If you are starting a business in Sonoma, great! Be sure that you have fully researched local requirements and regulations so that you avoid delays down the road. Some of the basics are covered in the start-up guide compiled by the Sonoma Valley Economic Development Partnership. Another great resource for start-ups is Tools for Business Success, which is filled with useful information for new businesses in Sonoma County.
If you are looking for a location fro your business, check out the site finding tool at SonomaValley4Biz.com. Be sure to contact the Planning Division (938-3681) before you commit to a location. Not all types of businesses are allowed in every commercial location, and you want to be sure your new business will have proper zoning. For certain uses, such as new restaurants, use permit review by the Planning Commission may be required.
Through the City's Community Development Agency, businesses may qualify for one of the redevelopment loan programs. These programs support the rehabilitation and renovation of existing commercial buildings, including facade improvement, disabled accessibility, energy efficiency, historic preservation, and more.
For information on these programs, or help with other questions you may have, contact the Economic Development Project Manager, Laurie Decker, at (707) 327-7338.
If you need translation services, a Spanish language translator is available.