Starting or Moving Your Business
St. Johnsbury is a small town with a large reservoir of resources for businesses. It is centrally located at the intersections of Interstates 91, 93 and US Route 2, northern New England's road corridor, making it a great place to do business!
In addition, St Johnsbury is a Designated Downtown District that qualifies businesses and building owners for both Federal and State rehabilitation and improvement grands and tax credits under the Downtown Revitalization Program. Learn more about funds and tax credits that may be available when you move your business into the designated downtown. Contact the StJ Chamber for assistance in applying.
There are many government and private programs to help small business owners start out and succeed. Here are some links to agencies and programs that provide information on business start ups and ongoing support for small businesses:
- Northeastern Vermont Development Association (NVDA)
- Small Business Administration
- Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA)
- Northern Community Investment Corporation (NCIC)
- Vermont Microbusiness Center
Ten Easy Steps to Starting (or Moving) a Business
- Structure the Business
- Develop a Plan
- Location, Location, Location!
- Register the Business
- Protect Your Business Name - "FBN" OR "DBA"
- Finance Your Business
- Leverage Town Incentives
- Hire Your Workforce
- Green Your Business
- Get Industry-Specific Assistance from the Town
Step 1. Structure the Business
One of the first decisions that you will have to make as a business owner is how your business should be structured. There is no one legal entity that best fits all small businesses. Whether you decide to start as a sole proprietor, partnership, limited liability entity, or nonprofit depends on several factors such as ease of entity management, liability, and taxation. THIS IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. Learn more.....
As you decide your business structure, start to develop a business plan. A business plan defines your business goals and serves as your company's resume. Learn more...
Step 3. Location, Location, Location!
Check Planning and Zoning: Before registering your business, be sure to check with the Planning Administrator to determine whether you are allowed to conduct business in the location or area you have selected. This applies even if you plan to do business out of your home. If you have a specific address in mind, or just a general neighborhood location, the zoning staff will be able to tell you whether your type of business will be permitted there. Learn more....
Once you have chosen your business entity, developed a business plan, and found your space, you are ready to register your business Learn more...
Step 5. Protect Your Business Name - "FBN" OR "DBA"
Every person who regularly transacts business in the state of California for profit under a fictitious name shall file a Fictitious Business Name (FBN) Statement, otherwise known as Doing Business As (DBA), no later than 40 days from the time he or she commences to transact such a business. Learn more...
After developing your business plan, you should already know all your expenses, both one-time startup expenses and ongoing cash requirements. You should itemize each purchase and expense and resource its realistic cost. With cash flow in hand, you will need to find capital to finance your business. This could be in any form, including bank loans, personal savings, and family contributions.
Step 7. Leverage Town Incentives
Businesses that are located in St. Johnsbury may qualify for a number of incentive programs. These programs can realize immense potential savings for businesses. Contact the Town Manager for more information about locating your business in StJ.
St. Johnsbury and the surrounding area is home to a talented and diverse workforce. The Town is here to help you find qualified candidates--some of whom might qualify you for tax incentives as well!
St. Johnsbury is an environmentally conscious town. The Town is committed to extending this to our businesses as well. The Energy Efficiency program provides customized assistance to help you reach your green goals.
Step 10. Get Industry-Specific Assistance from the Town
The Town and area business support service organizations are here to help you take advantage of all the programs and services we offer.
