Starting Your Business

As the county’s designated business advocate, the Economic Development Office is working to make Nevada County a place all our businesses thrive - manufacturers, technology, retail and services, merchants, agriculture, cannabis, nonprofits, tourism, and more.

Do you have an idea for a new business? Whether you have a plan for starting a new business or you are just starting to think about whether you want to start or purchase a business, we are here to help.

Depending on the business and your business model, there are various ways to launch a successful business in Nevada County. There are steps you’ll want to take to make sure you are operating legally. Other steps involve making sure you are offering something the market wants. 

The following are some things to consider as you are getting started. Remember, you can always contact the Economic Development office at (530) 470-2795 for business assistance, and a friendly connection to available resources.

Market research helps identify if there is an opportunity for your business to be successful, and competitive analysis helps you understand the demand for your business, potential customers, and your competition in the area. To get a better of picture your market, research the following items. 

  • Location: Where will your customers live and how will your business reach them?
  • Economic Indicators: What is the income range and employment rate of your chosen location?
  • Demographic Information: What is the age, wealth, size of families, and interests of the competitive market you will be serving?
  • Demand: Is there a need for what your business will offer? Does it fall in line with high-growth industries?
  • Market Saturation: How many similar options to your business are available?
  • Competition: Do you know what other businesses you might be competing with in your market?

To make your search easier, we’ve included some links following these key areas:

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Free Market Research Resources

Nevada County, California Executive Report 

Nevada County Demographic Information

Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 in Nevada County, CA

*Disclaimer: The above guidelines do not replace the professional advice necessary to start or run a business. Nevada County strongly encourages all businesses to seek professional legal and financial and real estate counsel when starting, expanding or relocating.