MAYOR NEWSOM AND SMALL BUSINESS COMMISSION ANNOUNCE OPENING OF SMALL BUSINESS ASSISTANCE CENTER

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Joined by members of the Small Business Commission, Mayor Newsom today announced the opening of the Small Business Assistance Center. The center will be lead by Director Brajah Norris and dedicated to serving the needs of small businesses in San Francisco with fewer than 100 employees.

Because of the sometimes tedious steps needed to open or expand a business in San Francisco and the myriad of agencies that must often be contacted when locating here, the Small Business Assistance Center will serve as the City’s central point of information and assistance for all city-related small business needs. 

"With small business accounting for over 85% of all San Francisco businesses, the new Small Business Assistance Center is a welcomed resource that directly benefits our small business community," said Director Brajah Norris. "Customer service is a top priority of the Small Business Assistance Center, and we look forward to working with and assisting the small business community."

Located on the first floor of City Hall in Room 110 of the Treasurer/Tax Collector’s Office, the center will be staffed by highly trained and dedicated case managers responsible for assessing business needs and providing targeted one-on-one assistance in the following 5 key areas:

• Business Start-up/Expansion – case managers will assist businesses in obtaining necessary licenses and registration, accessing financial resources, and coordinating technical assistance and business advice.
• Permit Assistance – case managers will assist businesses in navigating the permitting process at DBI, Planning, DPH, etc., will trouble-shoot permit related issues and help coordinate the permit process among multiple agencies.
• Procurement – case managers will help businesses become certified to do business with the City of San Francisco and provide guidance on how to bid on government contracts.
• Compliance with Government Laws and Regulation s – case managers will provide accurate and detailed information regarding complying with local, state and federal business laws, including the Minimum Wage, Paid Sick Leave and Health Access Program ordinances.
• Resource Referrals – case managers will connect businesses to City services, merchant associations and trade organizations, as well as nonprofit and private sector resources.

Services will be available by phone, walk-in, or by appointment. Spanish and Chinese language assistance will also be available. After hours appointments will be available by request. For additional information and assistance, the staff of the Small Business Assistance Center can be contacted directly at (415) 554-6134 or by calling 3-1-1.