A business license may be required by the city in which your business operates or by the county. Our Resources page will tell you who to contact for your business license. Depending on the type of business, you may need further state or federal licenses. If you have questions, please call West Center for assistance.

West Center cannot offer legal advice. Local resources are the Mendocino County Women’s Bar Association and the Lake County Bar Association.

A business plan is a fundamental element to starting a business. Call us to set up an appointment with our experienced business advisors who can walk you through the necessary steps to set up a business plan specifically for your business type.

West Center is unable to assist with cannabis-related businesses. However, if the products are hemp-based, West Center can offer business advice and assistance.

Yes! Our business advisors can help you with the fundamentals and specifics of starting a new business including developing a business plan, financial guidance, permits and planning, and more. When you decide to sell your business, our experienced advisers who know the area and its particular challenges and opportunities are ready to assist you.

Our business advisors can assist you with determining the best model for your business, from a cooperative to an LLC. West Center has offered a three-part series of webinars on the topic of cooperatives that you can view here.