Businesses Resources

Apply for Small & Local Business Certification

The City encourages businesses located in the City of Oakland to apply for the Local Business Enterprise (LBE) or Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) or Very Small Local Business Enterprise (VSLBE) or Locally Produced Goods (LPG) certification.

Business Support Organizations

Join local organizations that will help you grow your network and get advice about your business.

Financing Your Business

Starting or growing a business takes money, and help is out there. This page lists groups that support Oakland business owners with loans, grants, advice, and other resources. Whether you're just getting started or ready to expand, these groups can help.

Business Improvement Districts

Oakland has 11 Business Improvement Districts: 8 property-based, 2 business-based, and 1 tourism-based. These districts fund enhanced services like cleaning, marketing, safety, and beautification to support vibrant commercial areas.

Chambers of Commerce

Chambers of Commerce help local businesses grow. They connect you with other business owners, share useful info, and offer support.

Small Business Week

Oakland celebrated Small Business Week with a variety of virtual and in-person workshops, events and other activities for small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Stay tuned for 2026!

Oakland Food Business and Restaurant Resources

What's cooking, Oakland? Learn more about regulations and policies to open and maintain a food and beverage business in Oakland.

Immigrant Micro-Business Support Program

Technical assistance workshops and one-on-one support for Immigrant micro-businesses by The Unity Council and Feed the Hunger Fund, in partnership with The City of Oakland Economic and Workforce Development staff.