Business Assistance

Small Business Support Services

Looking to start or grow your business in El Paso? We offer essential tools and resources, including guidance on permits and licenses, access to funding and capital, foreign direct investment support, and connections to business development partners.

Book a consultation today to get started!

Visit elpasoboss.com to learn more about small business resources and schedule an appointment.

Book an Appointment

MPC Feasibility & Programming Study Public Meeting

Unlock Your Business Potential with Local Entrepreneur Support Organizations

Our partner organizations offer a wealth of support, from expert advice and growth assistance to training and networking opportunities. Explore the list of our invaluable partners below and discover how they can help you launch or expand your business in El Paso.

Better Business Bureau Paso del Norte

Business ethics education
Business & marketing development
Dispute resolution

View Website

Contract Opportunities Center (PTAC)

Technical government contracting assistance for businesses
Government registrations & certiﬁcations

View Website

El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Technical government contracting assistance for businesses
Government registrations & certiﬁcations
Business & marketing plan development
Access to capital guidance

View Website

El Paso Chamber

Networking & coaching opportunities
Business development workshops

View Website

Pioneers 21

Business model & startup business mentoring
Innovation & business workshops

View Website

Project Vida

Small business loans through affiliate, El Paso Collaborative
Business development assistance

View Website

SBA Veteran-owned Businesses Resources

Supports veteran entrepreneurship
Provides capital access and SBA training
Connects to federal and commercial contracts

View Website

Southwest Minority Supplier Development Council

Ethnic minority-owned certification assistance

View Website

South-West Texas Border Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

Strategic & ﬁnancial forecasting
Market research & analysis
Business plan creation

View Website

U.S. Small Business Administration El Paso

SBA Loan Guaranty
Small business counseling & training
Government contracting assistance programs

View Website

Workforce Solutions Borderplex

Grant-funded skills training for employees
Talent recruitment assistance

View Website

Your Path to Success: Business Support & Resources

As you embark on your business journey in El Paso, this page is here to help you turn your vision into a reality. In El Paso, we partner with local organizations to provide a range of programs and services tailored to support both new entrepreneurs and established small businesses. Our commitment is to offer the guidance and resources necessary for your success. We are here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring you have the support needed to thrive in our business community.

The Small Business Annual Report

View Last Year’s Local Growth

Essential Steps & Funding Resources

To help you launch a business in El Paso, here is a streamlined 12-step process:

Crafting a Winning Business Plan

Develop an idea:
Explore business ideas that reflect your passion and expertise. Align them with customer needs, trends, and market demand to set a strong foundation for success.
Do the research:
Analyze your industry, identify competitors, and study customer behaviors. Strong research helps you validate your idea and shape your strategy with confidence.
Draft a business plan:
Create a detailed plan outlining your goals, operations, finances, and marketing. Need help? The El Paso SBDC offers expert support at www.elpasosbdc.net.
Secure funding:
dentify your startup costs and explore funding options like loans, grants, or investors. For resources and guidance, refer to page 7 of the Business Development Guide.
Decide on a legal Business entity:
Choose the best legal structure—LLC, Sole Proprietorship, Corporation, or Partnership—based on liability, taxes, and your long-term business goals.
Register your business:
Register with the Texas Secretary of State to legally operate your business. Visit their website for current fees, forms, and requirements specific to your entity type.

Establish Your Business

Acquire federal and state tax IDs:
Your Employer Indentification Number (EIN)— also known as state tax ID and federal tax ID numbers — work like a personal social security number but for your business. They allow your small business to pay state and federal taxes. Visit the Employer identification number page on the IRS website.
Open a business bank account:
Business banking offers limited personal liability protection by keeping your business funds separate from your personal funds. Visit the Open a business bank account page on the SBA website.
Obtain the necessary licenses and permits:
Most small businesses need a combination of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal agencies. Requirements vary based on your business activities, location, and government rules. Visit the Apply for licenses and permits page on the SBA website.
Choose a location:
See page 15 of the Business Development Guide (for zoning information).
Get insured:
Business insurance protects you from the unexpected costs of running a business. Without the right insurance, accidents, natural disasters, or lawsuits could run you out of a business. Visit the Get business insurance page of the SBA website.
Develop an internet precense:
Build a professional website, engaging on social media platforms, and optimizing your online listings.