How do I start a business in Stockton?
There are several agencies to assist you in your business endeavor.  Start by contacting the City's Economic Development Division at (209) 937-8530 or via e-mail at economic.development@ci.stockton.ca.us

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Is my business located in the Stockton/San Joaquin Enterprise Zone?
A complete list of addresses within the zone is available by clicking here or on the State of California's website at www.hcd.ca.gov/ca/cdbg/ez/.  Also available is a listing of the Targeted Employment Area (TEA) addresses for Stockton.

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How do I apply for Enterprise Zone benefits?
No application form is necessary. 

State Benefits: All businesses located within the boundaries, regardless of size and structure, are eligible to earn tax credits.  The tax credits are claimed as part of your annual California State Income Tax Return.  State Franchise Tax Board Booklet 3805Z can be used to calculate your benefits and is available for download from the State of California Franchise Tax Board at www.ftb.ca.gov.

Local Benefits: Reduced Building Permit, Building Plan Check, Use Permit and/or Variance Application Fees are automatically taken at the City's Permit Center.  Each address within the Zone is already tagged in the City's computer system and all eligible fees will be reduced by 50% at permit issuance.  The fee shown on your permit reflects this reduction.

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How do I get an Enterprise Zone Hiring Tax Credit Voucher?
San Joaquin County WorkNet processes and issues the Hiring Tax Credit Voucher through their office at 850 N. Hunter Street, Stockton, CA  95202.  You may reach them by calling (209) 468-3500 or via their website at www.sjcworknet.org.  Note:  Effective November 1, 2004, a $50 fee will be collected for each voucher issued.

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Where can I find available Commercial property or vacant land in Stockton?
The City of Stockton has an online database of available commercial property and vacant land called "Advantage Stockton."  Advantage Stockton also provides pertinent demographic information and aerial images of the property. 

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How to I get a business license?
Contact the City's Administrative Services Department at (209) 937-8313 or click here to download a business license application.

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Where can I find information on loan and grant programs?
The City of Stockton offers several loan and grant programs.  Click here to find out more about the City's programs, as well as additional funding resources. 

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What is an Economic Review Committee (ERC)?
The ERC is a voluntary, free service available to developers and business owners throughout Stockton.  Key City staff meet with developers to review preliminary site plans and provide information about requirements the project may have prior to applying for a building permit.  For more information, visit the Local Incentive webpage or click here to download an ERC brochure.

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