Your guide to small business success.
First Community Capital curates the tools, programs, and knowledge you need at every stage, from registering your first LLC to scaling a thriving enterprise.
Trusted resources from government and state agencies.
Free online courses, webinars, and guides covering every stage of business ownership, from writing a business plan to managing cash flow and hiring employees.
Explore the SBA ›The SBA offers diverse loan programs for startups, expansion, and working capital needs, plus grants for disaster relief, R&D, and workforce training.
Browse SBA Funding ›Register your corporation, partnership, or LLC; meet annual filing deadlines; and look up any registered California business entity.
Visit sos.ca.gov ›The state's online portal for electronic business registration. Step-by-step guidance, e-filing, online fee payment, and 24/7 access to your business records.
Open Bizfile ›California's dedicated small business advocate provides grants, technical assistance matchmaking, and policy resources for entrepreneurs across the state.
Explore CalOSBA ›Choose the right fit for your business.
The simplest structure, the owner and business are one legal entity. Easy to set up with minimal paperwork, but personal assets are exposed to business liabilities.
Two or more people share profits, losses, and management. Partners carry personal liability and share decision-making. A partnership agreement is strongly recommended.
The most popular structure for small businesses. Members enjoy personal liability protection while keeping the tax flexibility and simpler operations of a partnership.
A fully separate legal entity offering the strongest liability protection and the clearest path to outside investment. Ideal for high-growth ventures.
Stay legal and avoid costly penalties.
Stay current on federal, state, and local tax obligations, including payroll taxes. Missed deadlines trigger penalties and interest that compound quickly.
California sets some of the nation's strictest labor rules on minimum wage, overtime, meal breaks, and non-discrimination. Know your obligations before your first hire.
Depending on your industry, state and local rules govern waste disposal, air quality, and hazardous materials. Check with CalEPA for your specific obligations.
Comply with product safety standards, truth-in-advertising rules, and fair credit practices under the FTC and California Consumer Protection Act.
Resources for every stage.
- Choose the legal structure that fits your risk tolerance and growth plan.
- Register your business with the California Secretary of State via Bizfile.
- Open a dedicated business bank account and establish your bookkeeping.
- Apply for your EIN at IRS.gov. It's free and takes minutes.
- Take an SBA Learning Center course on writing a solid business plan.
- Explore SBA loan programs and FCC microloans to fund expansion capital.
- Implement a CRM and accounting software (QuickBooks, Wave) to manage growth.
- Develop a marketing plan: Google Business Profile, social media, and email.
- Hire with confidence by understanding California labor law requirements.
- Review your business insurance coverage as revenues and headcount grow.
- Refine your financial systems and create a 12-month cash flow forecast.
- Explore CalOSBA grants and CDFI-backed programs to fund next-level growth.
- Build your network through SCORE mentoring and local chambers of commerce.
- Review compliance annually, licenses, filings, environmental permits.
- Give back: consider mentoring newer entrepreneurs in your community.
Get the funding that matches your stage.
Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale, FCC has a loan product and a coach ready for you.