Starting a Business

Photo of empty lot with "sites available" sign

Richmond is pleased to offer these resources to current business owners and to those interested in starting a business. 

US Small Business Administration: Houston District

The US Small Business Administration: Houston District offers services to small business owners. These services include funding programs, counseling, federal contracting certifications, and disaster recovery. They can also connect you to partner organizations, lenders, and other community groups that help small businesses succeed.

America’s Small Business Development Center: University of Houston - Texas Gulf Coast

The UH Texas Gulf Coast SBDC Network offers free, one-on-one, professional business advising services to business owners and entrepreneurs at our 14 locations throughout Southeast Texas.

The SBDC advising staff can assist entrepreneurs and small business owners in various stages of the business life cycle:

  • Pre-Venture or Early Stage

  • Startup

  • Expansion

  • Growth

  • Exit

Houston SCORE

SCORE Houston provides experienced entrepreneurs, corporate managers, and executives with a diverse set of industries and specialties who volunteer their experience and knowledge to help small business professionals start, develop, and grow businesses. We offer free business advice, low-cost or no-cost business training, and numerous templates and tools.

Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

The Central Fort Bend Chamber (CFBC) is the oldest chamber in Fort Bend County. They support their members through supporting new businesses at Ribbon Cuttings and Ground Breakings, providing network events such as Breakfast in the Bend, and educating business owners on important topics such as leadership and health and wellness.

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce is ready to help small business owners get their new businesses off the ground by providing a Business Start-Up Guide with information such as which agencies to contact, permitting contacts, information on the Texas Workforce Commission, information on OSHA, and many other resources.

The Chamber also offers monthly networking events and resources for existing business owners looking for additional support and resources.