Resources for Starting Your Business in Prince William County

Prince William County is here to help take your business beyond. We have compiled local, state and federal resources to help you along your business journey. Before you start, make sure you are aware of the various organizations that can assist you.

If you get stuck along the way, always feel free to request assistance at go.pwcded.org/smallbiz for help navigating resources and information.

Get Cost-Free Business Counseling

Our team of experienced Mason SBDC counselors are here to help you plan, start, manage and grow your business. Receive cost-free expert guidance on topics such as:

• Business Strategy
• Financing
• Government Contracting
• Marketing
• Sales

Register online at masonsbdc.org to schedule your first one-on-one business counseling session. If you are already registered, contact the counseling team at 703-261-4105 or help@masonSBDC.org to set up an appointment.

Make Financial Education a Priority

Attend seminars for strategies to improve your credit, manage and reduce debt, grow your savings, or create a financial strategy that works for you.

Email smartmoney@pwcgov.org to make a virtual appointment or complete the interest form online.

Compile Data and Research

MAGIC, the Management and Government Information Center, has a specialized research department within Prince William Public Libraries that can help businesses and nonprofits. MAGIC has databases, books, videos, and other materials to assist on the following topics:

• Industry data and market overviews
• Information on grants accessible through the Foundation Directory Online
• Demographics information
• Laws and regulations

Submit your request to MAGIC at magic2@pwcgov.org or call 703-792-4880.

Understand County Permits and Project Management Assistance

The county wants to assist you through the regulatory process to ensure your business is safe to occupy and opens as quickly as possible. Before purchasing or signing a lease, determine the existing conditions of your selected property and how they may impact your type of business.

Contact Prince William County’s Department of Development Services to discuss with a project manager about the estimated project schedule and budget.

Bookmark Guides to County Licensing and Taxes

To learn about business license and tax requirements, you can visit the Prince William County Tax Administration in person for assistance or view the guides below:

• Getting Your Prince William County Business License
• How to Pay and Renew Business License
• How to File and Pay Business Tangible Property Tax
  
  

Plan for Ribbon Cutting Celebrations

We know that your priority is to get open quickly and cost effectively, and sometimes the grand opening planning is neglected. The PWCDED office works with the Prince William Chamber of Commerce to manage the event logistics for your big day.

At the start of your project, check-in with the Department of Economic Development to let us know about your upcoming business opening or expansion project.