No Building Inspections will be conducted the week of 12/23/2024 - 12/27/2024

Business Resources

an image of new morning bakery's dallas location as viewed from the corner of mill and main street

Interested in starting and/or expanding a business in Dallas? You have come to the right place!

Step 1 - Creating a Business Plan

A business plan is one of the most important steps to consider when starting your business. When done well, this plan helps provide a road map for starting and managing your business. Additionally, as your business begins to grow, you can plan how you want to grow your business, and how you respond to that growth. Business plans also provide your business needed credibility when you seek investment from a local bank or other financier.

Learn more about how to write a business plan from the Harvard Business Review

Download a free business plan template in our files section below (Courtesy of SCORE)

Step 2 - Finding a Location

Finding the right location is vital to your business. Does your business rely on foot traffic? Does your business need a lot of manufacturing space? Dallas has two major areas zoned for commercial use, and acres of industrial zoned land to open your business. Looking for more information about what is available? Consult a local realtor or check out our resources for available properties here in Dallas.

Step 3 - Financing

Starting a business, much like buying a house, requires money up front, whether that is a down payment, or other start up costs. When writing your business plan, you should calculate all the possible costs you will need to get your business started and operational. If your business requires more funding upfront than what is available to you, you can seek financing! Local banks and credit unions will often have small business assistance. Sit down with a local bank representative and discuss your options. It's also important to make sure that you have an emergency fund (typically 3-6 months of expenses) so that you are able to meet all your necessary obligations for your business and personal expenses.

Learn more about funding options for your business from the Small Business Administration.

Step 4 - Applying for Permits

The City of Dallas does not have a business license program, but depending on your business, you may need to obtain other permits. Visit City Hall to make sure you have all the permits necessary to start your business. If you are doing construction on your leased space, opening a home based business, or selling food, it is important to be permitted to protect your business

Visit our Planning Division

Visit our Building Division

Visit Polk County Community Development (For Food Related Permits)

Step 5 - Operation

This is the fun part! You are now open. Your operation plan should be covered in your business plan, but make sure you are making adjustments as needed. Make a habit of tracking your finances regularly, and keep your books in order. After the first month, see where you are in relation to your business plan. What are your strengths and weaknesses? It is not too late to make changes if you need to be

Step 6 - Community

Dallas is a town that loves its small businesses, and it is important you give back! Joining organizations like the Chamber of Commerce or Downtown Association can help market your business as well as help you give back to the community that supports your business.

Join the Chamber of Commerce

Join the Downtown Association

The Dallas Business Inventory (DBI) is a free business inventory program provided by the City of Dallas to help keep businesses owners in the loop of great educational, funding, and promotional opportunities for your business. It also allows for the city to communicate with business owners when city projects may affect their business.

Signing up for this program is completely free! You can sign up here.