B U R L I N G T O ND O I N G B U S I N E S S I N

T H E S T R E E T W I S E G U I D E F O R S T A R T I N G , E X P A N D I N G , & RELOCATING YOUR BUSINESS IN VERMONT’S QUEEN CITY

7th Ed., June 2010 Published by City of BurlingtonPhotoCredits:toprow,DawnO’Connell/ShootMePhotography

lowerleft,JordanSilvermanlowerright,SEGroup/FreemanFrenchFreeman

Start Up

A Business Plan

Registration, Taxes & Licenses

Planning & Zoning

Public Works

Creating Jobs/Employees

Renewal Community

Selecting a Location

Financing Your Plan

Special Considerations

Directory

Index

4-5

6-7

8-9

10-11

12-13

14-15

16

17

18-19

20-23

24-32

33-34

SouthWillardat

ShelburneStreet,

October1940

Contents

TheCommunity & Economic Development Office (CEDO),locatedinCityHall,providesfreetechnicalassistanceandreferrals,administersarevolvingloanprogram,provideslocationandpermittingassistanceand,whenneeded,canactasaliaisonbetweenCitydepartmentsandyourventure.(802)865.7144|www.cedoburlington.org

TheVermont Small Business Development Center (VTSBDC),locatedat60MainSt.,isavailableforfreeone-on-oneassistancewiththeprocessofresearching,starting,operating,expandingandclosingasmallbusiness.(802)658.9228|www.vtsbdc.org

TheMicro Business Development Program (MBDP),locatedat294N.WinooskiAve.,Suite214B,offerslowandmoderate-incomeentrepreneursfreeassistanceforstarting,expandingorimprovingtheirbusinesses.Servicesinclude:one-on-onebusinesscounseling,businessplanningandloanpackagingassistance,peermarketingsupportgroup,workshopsandtraining,creditcoaching,andhouseholdfinancialeducation.(802)860.1417|www.vermontmicrobusiness.org

TheWomen’s Small Business Program (WSBP),“Succeedonyourownterms,notonyourown,”locatedat346ShelburneRd.,provideswomenwithbusinessskillsandsupporttostart,operateandexpandmicro-businesses.Itoffersmanyworkshopsandintroductorycoursesaswellasafifteen-weekbusinessskillstrainingprogram.(802)846.7338|www.wsbp.org

4

FACT:Everybusiness

hasdifferentneedswhen

startingup.

Constructacustomized

checklist.

Theseorganizations

ontherightcansit

withyouanddevelopa

comprehensiveto-dolist

specifictoyourbusiness

goals--mostarefree

ofchargeandallare

confidential.

How to Start a

Business in Burlington

G O T A N Y B R I G H T I D E A S ?Whetheryouneedhandholdingorrocketlaunching,therearemanyexceptionalandfreeresourcesinBurlingtonavailabletoassistyoueverystepoftheway.Hereareafew:

Start Up

Yourbusinessmay

besubjecttovarious

permits,licenses,

andreview.Check

out the section

on “Special

Considerations”

(pages20-23).

Forcomprehensive

assistancewithlarger

projectsofconstruction

andimprovements

forneworexisting

commercialfacilities,

callCEDOat

(802)865.7144or

GBICat

(802)862.5726.

Advice

5

Develop a Business Plan.Readthroughthenextsectionofthisguideonpreparingabusinessplan.Onceyourplanisdrafted,haveitreviewedforfreeatoneoftheorganizationslistedontheoppositepage.

Compile a checklist of steps to take. CallCEDO,(802)865.7187,toreview.Whileyouarethere,askforacopyoftheirCommercialSpaceDatabase.

Look into local permits, zoning, and licenses. Beforesigningalease,contactPlanning&Zoning,(802)865.7188,andPublicWorks,(802)863.9094,todiscussyourplans.P&ZandPWwilladviseyouofnecessaryzoningandbuildingpermitsandtheprocessforeach.www.dpw.ci.burlington.vt.us/build/&www.ci.burlington.vt.us/planning.

Choose your legal structure.Soleproprietorship?Partnership?S-Corp?C-Corp?LimitedLiabilityCorporation?ThenewL3C(Vermontwasthefirststatetoauthorizethisnewdesignation)?Consultwithanattorneyandaccountanttoreviewthelegalandfinancialbenefitsofeach.YoucanresearchthedefinitionsandattributesoftheselegalstructuresattheSecretaryofState’swebsite:www.sec.state.vt.us.

Register your name.Onceyou’vedecidedonyourbusiness’slegalstructure,orifyouaredoingbusinessunderanameotherthanyourown,youneedtoregisteryourname.Eithercall(802)828.2386orvisitwww.sec.state.vt.ustogettheTradenameRegistrationform.Also,certainprofessionsrequirepermitsandlicensing(seepage23)fromthisoffice.Again,eithercalltheSecretary’sofficeorchecktheirwebsite.

Get an Employers Tax Identification Number (EIN).Partnershipsandcorporations,withorwithoutemployees,mustobtainanemployeridentificationnumber.CompleteandreturnIRSformSS-4.Simplerandquickeryet,applyonlineatwww.irs.gov.

Register for state tax numbers.CompleteformS-1(availableatwww.state.vt.us/taxorwww.cedoburlington.org)andmailtoVTDepartmentofTaxes.Forquestionsonsalestax,withholding,corporateandothertaxescallthem:(802)828.2505.

Call insurance agents.You’llneedvarioustypesofinsurance.Callthreeagents,discussyourbusinessneeds,getquotes,andcomparepriceandservice.

BasicsS t a r t U pThe following is only a general overview of the steps

you need to take in starting a business. Detailed

information on each of these steps is provided in

the following pages of this guide.

A Business Plan

AdviceCEDOcanreviewyour

businessplanbeforeyou

gotoalender.

MBDPcanhelpyouput

yourplantogether,

or

Sampleplansand

businessplantemplates

areavailablefroma

varietyofsources.

6

BluebirdTavernco-ownerSueBette

Cut to the chase: This is about confidence.

Ifsomeoneisgoingtoloanyoumoney,theyneedafeelingofconfidence(seesectiononFinancing,page18-19);confidencethattheplanisaccurate, plausible, and executable.Ifyourprospectivefinancersperceivetoogreatarisk,youcanbesuretheywon’tbeyourprospectivefinancersforverylong.Ifyouneedcapital,theimportanceofpreparingabusinessplancannotbeoverstated.

Theoppositepagehasabusinessplanoverview.Asyoudraftyourplan,yourstrengthsandweaknesseswillbecomeclearer.Weaknessesinyourbusinessgreatlyincreasethechancesoffailure.Andaftersufficientreviewtheseweaknesseswillbeapparent.Treatthebusinessplanasalivingdocument;onewhichyounurture,learnfrom,andthateventuallybringslifetoyourbusiness.

Thereareasmanywaystowriteabusinessplanastherearebusinesses.Ontheoppositepageisanoverviewofatypicalbusinessplanyoucanuseasaguide.Seeksamplesofotherplansasguidance.

Afailuretoplanisaplantofail.Regardlessofyourneedsforaloan,abusinessplan,ifreviewedbyprofessionals,willrevealwhatyouknowanddon’tknowaboutyourbusinessventure.Howimportantisthat?Oversightsandmistakesaremuchcheaperonpaperthaninreallife.Abusinessplanhelpsownersperformbetterandavoidpitfalls.Youmaybetheexpertatthenatureofyourbusiness,butthenatureofbusinessvarieslikeourclimate.

Need help or a business plan outline?Freeone-on-oneassistanceandaconfidentialreviewofyourplanisavailablethroughtheorganizationslistedonpage4.Don’tforgoconsultation.Beforeyoubringyourplantoabankorotherlender,getsomequalifiedopinions.

SueBetteandher

partnerstransformed

thedilapidatedformer

TortillaFlatsbuildinginto

aJamesBeardAward

Best New Restaurant

semi-finalist.

Inspiration

A Plan Overview

Introduction Provideadetaileddescriptionofthebusinessandits

goals;discusstheownershipofthebusinessandthelegal

structure;listtheskillsandexperienceyoubringtothe

business;discusstheadvantagesyouandyourbusinesshaveoveryourcompetitors.

Marketing Discusstheproducts/servicesoffered;identifythecustomerdemandforyourproduct/

service;identifyyourmarket,itssizeandlocations;explainhowyourproduct/servicewill

beadvertisedandmarketed;explainthepricingstrategy.

Financial Management Explainyoursourceandtheamountofinitialequitycapital;developamonthlyoperating

budgetandamonthlycashflowforthefirstthreeyears;provideprojectedincome

statementsandbalancesheetsforathree-yearperiod;discussyourbreak-evenpoint;

explainyourpersonalbalancesheetandmethodofcompensation;discusswhowill

maintainyouraccountingrecordsandhowtheywillbekept;provide“whatif”statements

thataddressalternativeapproachestoanyproblemthatmaydevelop.

Operations Explainhowthebusinesswillbemanagedonaday-to-daybasis;discusshiringand

personnelprocedures;discussinsurance,leaseorrentagreements,andissuespertinent

toyourbusiness;accountfortheequipmentnecessarytoproduceyourproductsor

services;accountforproductionanddeliveryofproductsandservices.

Concluding Statement Summarizeyourbusinessgoalsandobjectives,andexpressyourcommitmenttothe

successofyourbusiness.

7

NewversionsofMicrosoft Officehavedecent

templatesforbusinessplans(Word)andthe

relatedfinancialplanningdocuments(Excel).

AdviceGoingforaloan?Thesefinancialdocumentsmustaccompanyyourplan.Easytousetemplatesareavailable.For free forms and free help contact SBDC:(802) 658.9228 www.vtsbdc.org

1.Sources & Application of funds StatementWhatfundsdoyouneedforthenextyearandwherewilltheycomefrom?

2.Capital Equipment LidsWhatequipmentdoyouhave,need,andwhatisitscostorvalue?

3.Cash Flow StatementsCurrentandprojected-minimum2yearsout.

4. Balance SheetsFor3years,historicalandprojected.

5. Tax ReturnsForprevious2years.

6. Break Even Analysis Whatistheminimumsalesrevenuetomeetyouroperatingcosts?

Gotyourplansewnup?GyllianSvenssonofTheBobbindoes.

8

Computershaveall

buteliminatedthe

needfor37foot-tall

filingcabinets.

South End outdoor

sculpture (above)

constructed by Bren

Alvarez

Easy Things To Do During The Business Planning Stage

1. Register your business name with the Vermont Secretary of State. Ifyouplantooperateunderadifferentnamethanyourown,youmustregisterthetradenamewiththeSecretaryofState.Asmallfeeischarged,andtheregistrationisvalidforfiveyears.Formsareavailableonline.Aspartofyourbusinessplanningprocess,youneedtochoosealegalstructure:soleproprietorship,partnership,S-Corp,C-Corp,WorkerCooperativeCorp,non-profit,limitedprofit,LimitedLiabilityCompany,orthenewL3C.Onceyoudecide,ifyouareanythingotherthanasoleproprietorship,youmustfileformswiththeSecretaryofState.Thisofficealsoregisterstrademarks,issuescertificatesofincorporationfordomesticcorporations,administersLimitedLiabilityCompanies,administersLimitedPartnershipRegistration,andadministersAmusementParkRideRegulation. (802)828.2386|www.sec.state.vt.us

2. Register with the Vermont Department of Taxes. Theywillhelpdeterminewhichtypesoftaxesarerequired.TheDepartmentofTaxesadministerspersonalincometax,businesstaxes,mealsandroomstax,salesandusetax,andwithholdingtax,andassignsaBusinessTaxAccountnumber.Youmusthaveanaccountnumberbeforeyouopenforbusiness.ObtainonebysubmittingacompletedformS-1.SeethedefinitionsofvariousStatetaxesonoppositepage.(802)828.2551|www.state.vt.us/tax

3. Register with the Internal Revenue Service. TheIRShasapplicationformsonlineforfederalemployerIDnumbers(EIN)andfederaltaxes.Ifyouplantohaveemployees,youwillneedtogetanEINfromtheIRSbysubmittingformSS-4.YouwillberequiredtomakeregularpaymentstotheIRSforsocialsecurityandemployeewithholdingtax.Prepare by reading page 15 in this guide. Asasoleproprietor,ifyouexpecttooweatleast$1,000inpersonalincometaxtotheIRSfortheupcomingtaxyear,youmustmakeestimatedquarterlypaymentsusingform1040ES. Again, read page 15 in this guide. TheIRSconductslocalworkshopsandcoursesgearedtosmallbusinesses,usuallyfreeofcharge.(802)859.9308|www.irs.govBurlingtonIRSofficeat199MainSt.

Registration, Taxes & Licenses

4. Contact an insurance agent. Amongotherinsuranceneeds,Workers’Compensationinsuranceisrequiredevenforbusinesseswithoneemployee.TheVermontDepartmentofLabor(VTDOL)administersworkers’compensation,minimumwage,andchildlaborlaws.Formoreinformation,contact:Department of Labor: Workers’ Compensation(802)828.2286;WageandHourwww.labor.vermont.gov/Default.aspx?tabid=114.

5. Read pages 20-23 in this guide.Yourbusinessmayrequirespecialpermitting,licensing,andtaxes.Amongotherthings,youmightneedtocalltheHealthDepartmentandtheAgencyofNaturalResources.TheHealthDepartmentprovideslicensesandpermitsforawiderangeofspecificbusinesses(e.g.foodandlodging,bakeries,asbestosabatementworkers,leadcontractors,emergencymedicalserviceproviders,hospitals,foodprocessors).Again, read pages 20-23 to see if your business requires special considerations.

6. Which City of Burlington business taxes apply?

Commercial Real Estate Tax: Anon-residentialpropertytaxbasedonamultiplierof1.2oftheCity’sappraisedvalue.ForbillingquestionscalltheCityClerk’sOfficeat(802)865.7000.ForappraisedvaluationquestionscalltheCityAssessor’sOfficeat(802)865.7114orvisittheAssessor’swebsiteforpropertydataatwww.ci.burlington.vt.us/assessor.

Business Personal Property Tax: AlsoknownastheMachineryandEquipmenttax.ItisrequiredforallbusinessestoregisterwiththeCityAssessor’sOffice.PleasecontacttheAssessor’sOfficebycalling(802)865.7114.YoucanlearnmoreaboutthistaxandobtaintheregistrationformbygoingtotheCityAssessor’swebsite,www.ci.burlington.vt.us/assessor.

Downtown Improvement District Tax:Thistaxenablesfreeparkingforshoppersandvisitorsduringpeakshoppingtimesthroughouttheyear.ThistaxisbasedontheappraisedvalueandonlyappliestothecommercialpropertieswithintheDowntowndistrict.ThistaxisontheRealEstatetaxbill.ForbillingquestionscalltheCityClerk’sOfficeat(802)865.7000.

Meals and Rooms Tax:TheCityrequiresrestaurants,movietheaters,amusements,caterers,motels,hotels,andguesthomestopayapercentageofgrossmonthlyreceiptstotheCityClerk’sOfficeonamonthlybasis.Call(802)865.7011/7015forthecurrenttaxrates.

For more information see the Special Considerations section (pgs 20-23)

Get Guide To Vermont Business Taxes.Call(802)828.2551www.state.vt.us/tax

State Tax Definitions:

Sales & Use Ataxonsaleandrental

ofgoods,acquiredboth

inandoutofstate.A

certificateisrequiredto

collectthetax.

Meals & RoomsAtaxofgross

receiptsperquarter

forrestaurants,bars,lodgings,etc.

Corporate IncomeApercentageofthe

corporation’snet

income.Minimumof

$250peryear.

Personal IncomeApproximately24%ofyourfederalincometax.

Fuel Gross Receipts Ataxontheretailsaleoffuel(e.g.propane,naturalgas,coal,heatingoil),ifyousellover$10,000peryear.

Withholding AtaxyouwithholdandremittotheStateonbehalfofyouremployees.

Other State Taxes Therearespecialtaxesonbeverages,cigarettes,tobacco,solidwaste,andothers.

9

Registration, Taxes & Licenses

Planning & Zoning (P&Z) is the City Department which

regulates land use, development, and zoning for all commercial

and residential property within Burlington City Limits. It administers

several types of permits and helps interpret zoning laws for people

planning to locate or expand a business in Burlington.

Planning & ZoningCallP&Z.Havea

conversationabout

yourproject.

Advice

10

“When do I need to contact P&Z?” Now! Azoningpermitmayberequiredwhenyoumakeinteriororexteriormodificationstoabuilding,changetheuseofabuilding,orsimplyputupasign.Ifyouarejuststartingabusiness(includinghome-based),movingintoanewcommercialspace,ormakinganysignificantchangesinthetypeofbusinessyouarerunning,youshouldcheckwithP&Zbefore youmoveforward.TheP&Zstaffwanttohelpyouavoidpotentialproblemsandwastedtime.Alltheinformationandformsneededcanbefoundatwww.ci.burlington.vt.us/planning.

“I found a space for my business, but I’m not sure whether the zoning is appropriate.” YoucanfindoutbycallingP&Zwiththelocation’saddress.Youmayneedapermitifyouareconvertingtheuseofaspace(e.g.officetoretail,retailto

manufacturing,residentialtooffice).Itmaynotbeimportantifyouarechangingtheproductsorservices(e.g.clothingtohomeproducts),butitisimportantifthetypeofactivityischanging.Call(802)865.7188tofindout.

“What if I am considering some small changes to the exterior of the building?” Bringaphotographofthebuildingandacopyofyourbuildingplans(ifavailable)toP&Ztodetermineifitisnecessarytogothroughthedesignreviewprocess.Somebuildingsmaybeprotectedashistoricormayrequireapprovalofdesign

changes.Designchangesincludesignsontheoutsideofthebuilding.

“What if my proposal requires construction or other work inside or outside the building?” Inmostcases,youwillneedaBuilding Permit fromPublicWorks(802)

863.9094inadditiontotheP&Zpermit.

“How long will it take to get a permit?”Insomecases,P&Zwilldetermineyoudonotneedapermitandwillgiveyoua“DeterminationofNon-applicability.”Ifyoudo

needapermit,youmaybeabletogetan“AdministrativeApproval,”which

generallytakes3-4weeks.Foralargerprojectyoumayhavetogoinfront

oftheDesignAdvisoryBoardand/ortheDevelopmentReviewBoard,which

couldtakeafewmonths.Whetherit’sthreehours,threedays,orthree

months,thesooneryouapproachP&Z,thebetteryoucanplantoensureyou

havethenecessarypermitsbeforeyoubeginoperating.

“How much does a permit cost?” Feesarebasedonthetypeofthe

project.Visitthewebsiteforcurrentfees,includingimpactfees,specificto

yourproject.www.ci.burlington.vt.us/planning

“I’m not sure if my space is handicapped accessible.” TheAmericans

with Disabilities Actrequirescertainbuildingadaptations.Checkwiththe

BuildingInspectorinPublic Worksasearlyaspossibletomakesureyourspacecomplies.Insomesituations,forexamplewherethecostsofinstalling

adaptiveequipmentisdeterminedexorbitant,variancesareissuedbyPublic

Works.Azoningpermitwillstillbeneeded.

“What if I don’t get approval for what I want to do?”YouareabletoappealthedecisiontotheVermontEnvironmentalCourtorpossibly

approachthePlanningCommissionaboutchangingthezoninglaws.AskP&Z

fordetails.

Design Review Guides P&Z’sReviewGuidesareeasytounderstandhow-toguidesonavarietyofzoningdesignreviewtopics.Reviewingapplicableguidesasyouplanisagreatidea.YoucanpickthemupattheirofficesatCityHallorgotowww.ci.burlington.vt.us/planning.Therearetwentyguidesavailable.Hereisapartiallist:

11

AdviceThe Design Review Process

Site Plans

Building Elevations

Parking

Outdoor Lighting

Windows

Signs

Utilities and Other Essentials

Access for All

Certificates of Occupancy

Historic Buildings/Historic Research

Development Review Board

Youmaybeeligiblefor

federalandstatetax

creditsforhandicapaccess

improvementsatyoursite.

CallCEDOat

(802)865.7587formore

info.

CanIhangscissorsonmybuilding?

Howaboutarhino?ContactthefriendlystaffatPlanning&Zoning.

Photocredit:

topright,DawnO’Connell/

ShootMePhotography

12

Springisabusytimeforconstruction.Planahead.

Sheryl&RodofJR’sCornerStore

Public Works

The Public Works Department has a broad range of responsibilities including

certain permitting, inspection and public utility services. New buildings, additions,

alterations, repairs, demolitions, changes in plumbing, mechanical and electrical

systems will require a permit followed by inspection of the construction.

LetthehelpfulstaffattheDepartmentofPublicWorksshedsomelightonyourprojectbeforeyougetstartedonplansforinteriormodifications,

electricalorplumbingwork.

http://www.dpw.ci.burlington.vt.us/

“When do I need to contact Public Works?” Now, or certainly before the day you wish to start your project.Theycantellyouifyouneedabuilding,plumbingorelectricalpermit.Theywillscheduleinspectionsforbuildingcode,health&safety,fire,etc.

“Do I need to fill out an application for a permit?”Yes.CompleteFormISD-1ApplicationforPermit(availableonwebsite,seeabove).Itisstronglyrecommendedthatyouoryourcontractorscontactthisofficeduringtheproject’splanningstagesoratthesametimethatyourprojectisbeingreviewedunderthezoningprocess.Thiswillhelpkeepyourprojectonscheduleandletyoustartonthedayyouplanned.

“How long does it take to get a permit?”Thereisashortwaitingperiod.Dependingonthesizeoftheproject,itcouldtakefromlessthananhourtoanentireweek.Mostpermitsareissuedwithoutdelay.Ifyouhaveplannedfarenoughahead,contactedtheInspectionServicesDivision,providedplans,madephonecontact,etc.priortoyourprojectstartdate,itwillnottakelongforyoutoobtainthenecessarypermitsandgetyourprojectunderway.

“Do I need a separate permit for electrical, plumbing, building, etc?”Yes.Eachtraderequiredtocompleteaprojectwillbepermittedseparatelyidentifyingtheworkbeingperformedandbywhomitisbeingdone.Eachtradepersonwillsecurehisorherownpermit(s),andeachpermitfeewillbebasedonthecostofconstructionforthattrade’sportionofthework.

“How much does a permit cost?”Allpermitshaveaminimumpermitfeewhentheprojectcostsforlaborandmaterialfallbelowacertainlevel.Forprojectsovertheminimum,thepermitfeeiscalculatedforevery$1,000.00oftheconstructioncost.

“Do I need to close out permits issued for my projects?”Yes.ObtainingaCertificateofOccupancyisrequiredaspartofthepermitprocess.Double-checkwithboththeP&ZandtheInspectionServicesDivisiontobesurethatallyourprojectswereclosedoutafterfinalinspection.

“Can Public Works recommend a contractor to do the work?” No.TheservicethattheyprovidethroughthepermitprocessensuresthatallcontractorsworkinginBurlingtonhavethepropercredentialsandobserveallstateandlocallifesafetycodesinconstructionwork.

“Can I do my own plumbing or electrical work for my business?”No.Generally,plumbingandelectricallicensesarerequiredtoperformworkinBurlington.Allworkdonemustcomplywithallstateandlocalbuildingcodesandordinances.

“Do I need to provide plans? If so, what is required to be shown on the plans, and can I draw them myself?”Yes.PublicWorksneedstoreviewyourplans.Forsmallerprojects,theplansshouldshowelevationandfloorplansidentifyingallareasandmaterials.Inaddition,forlargerprojects,youshouldaddafoundationplan,furtherfloorplans,sections,etc.Youmaydrawtheseplansyourselforhaveaprofessionaldothemforyou.However,aprofessionalmustaffixavalidregistrationstampandnumberfortheinspectortoacceptthem.

“How soon can I get an inspection for my project?”Inspectionsarerequiredforallpermits.Thebesttimetoscheduleaninspectioniswhenyoupickupyourpermit.DPW’sinspectionscheduleisdrivenbytheconstructiondemandandisonafirst-come,first-servebasis.Theyrequestaminimumofthreedayslead-timetobeabletobeatthepropertyforaninspection.Fromearlyspringtolatefall,andaroundtheholidays,thelead-timeislonger.

“When can I see an inspector?” Theinspectorshavesetasidecertainofficehours,8amto10am,specificallytoreturnphonecalls,scheduleappointments,andmeetwithwalk-incustomers.Thesehoursweresetuptoissuequickpermitsandansweranyquestionsyoumayhavetokeepyourprojectmoving.Voicemailcanalsobeanimportanttool.Forbuildingpermitscall(802)865.7559;forelectricalpermitscall(802)865.7561;formechanical,heating,ventilation,sprinkler,andplumbingcall(802)865.7560.

CallPublicWorks.Haveaconversationaboutyourproject.

TheofficesofPublicWorkshavecandyforyourenjoyment.

Advice

13

14

Web-Based Resources on Hiring Small Business Administration: Delivering Success Video Aplethoraofvideointerviewswithsuccessfulentrepreneurs

www.sba.gov/tools/audiovideo/deliveringsuccess/index.htmlEqual Employment Opportunity Commission and Small BusinessesWhatquestionsareokaytoaskinaninterview?Thissitewillanswerthatandtheothermostcommonquestionsthatemployersencounterandmakeiteasierforyoutocomplywithanti-discriminationlaws:www.eeoc.gov/employers/index.cfmSCORE Reading Room Smartarticlesonfinding,hiring,developingandkeepinggreatemployees:www.score.org/readingroom.htmlBusiness Owners ToolkitArich,information-packedwebsiteaboutallthingsSmallBusinessincludingdozensofformsandarticlesonemployeemanagement:www.toolkit.comLivable Jobs ToolkitExcellentresourceforcreatingandretaininggoodjobsandemployees:www.vbsr.org

JobsBecausehiringemployeesisacomplex,expensiveprocess,thedecisionmustfitinwithyourgoalsasoutlinedinyourbusinessplan.Thehiringprocessshouldbeapproachedthoughtfully.Beforeyouhire,youshoulddefinethejob,theexperienceoreducationlevelrequiredandwhatsalaryandbenefitsyouarewillingtopay.Seriouslyconsiderformulatingapersonnelpolicythataddressesthefollowing:thenumberofhourstobeworkedeachweekandthenumberofdaysperweek;holidayworkandthetimeandmethodforovertimepay;fringebenefits;vacationandsickleave;timeoffforpersonalneeds;training;retirement;agrievanceprocedure;performancereviewandpromotion;andtermination.

Thoughintuitionplaysabigpartinhiringdecisions,youshouldfollowaprocessthatdeterminestheapplicant’scapabilitiesfortheposition.Inadditiontoreviewingthecandidate’sresumeandapplication,askforworksamplesfromapreviousjobifavailable.Testtheapplicantifappropriateanddefinitelycheckhisorherworkreferences.Thenumberonetraitemployersciteasareasonforhiring?Attitude.

Notes

Creating

FileformSS-4andobtainanEmployerIdentificationNumber(EIN).

EachemployeemustfilloutaW-4,theemployeewithholdingformandanI-9EmploymentEligibilityVerificationform.

Foreachpayperiod(weekly,bi-monthly,monthly,etc.)youneedtocalculateanddeductemployees’incometax,socialsecurity,andmedicareamounts.Eachquarteryou’llfileaform941toreportyourpayments.Youcanfileform941andmakeyourpaymentsontheIRSwebsite.

Shortlyaftertheendofthecalenderyear,you’llfileWageandTaxStatements(W-2)foreachemployeeandaTransmittalofWageandTaxStatements(W-3form).You’llalsofileform945,theAnnualReturnofWithheldFederalIncomeTax.

Somebusinesses,suchasthosewithemployeeswhoreceivetips,arerequiredtofileadditionalinformation.Checkwithyourtaxaccountantorvisitwww.irs.gov.

Ifyouareself-employed(i.e.noemployees)youmustpaytheself-employmenttax.UsescheduleSEwithyourannual1040taxreturn.Seewww.irs.govforinformation.

WhenyoufileanS-1,VermontApplicationforBusinessTaxAccount,youneedtorequestawithholdingtaxaccountifyouplanonemploying.TheStatewillsendyouanEmployerWithholdingreturnbookletforreportingalongwithascheduleandformulaforcalculatingthedeductions.

EachemployeemustfilloutformW-4VT.

Asanemployer,youmustfilewagereportsonaquarterlybasisevenifnowageswerepaidinaquarter.AnEmployer’sQuarterlyWage&ContributionReport(FormC-101)ismailedtoeachtaxableandreimbursableemployerduringthelastweekofeachcalendarquarter.

Workers’Compensationinsurancemustbepurchased.Contactaninsuranceagent.ForinformationonWorkers’Compensationvisitwww.labor.vermont.govorcall(802)828.2288.

CheckwithVOSHA(OccupationalSafety&Health)foradditionalregulationsthatmayapplytoyourcompanyatwww.labor.vermont.govorcall(802)828.2288.

Employees & Related Taxes

Advice

Federal

State Haveaconversation

withataxaccountant.

Considerhiringa

professionalforyour

taxneeds.Youmight

saveabundleinaspirin

costs.Analternativeto

managingyourcompany’s

payrollandtaxfilings

wouldbetohireapayroll

servicetohandleallyour

employee-relatedtax

documents.

Except where noted, all forms available at www.state.vt.us/tax or call (802) 828.2551.

Except where noted, all forms available at www.irs.gov

15

17

AdviceCallupthevariousbusinessassociationslistedinthedirectory.Sometimestheyhearofopeningsbeforetheyhitthestreet.CallCEDO(802)865.7187.Theymaintainalistofavailablecommercialspace.

Selecting A

Whiledevelopingyourbusinessplanyoushouldbe

contacting real estate brokers and prospecting for

yourbusinesslocation.Tostart,theCommunity and

Economic Development Office (802)865.7187

maintains a list of available commercial space in

Burlington.They’llsendyoualistofavailablespaces.

Whenyoufindaplace,call Planning & Zoning

(802)865.7188,toseeifyourbusinessispermitted

there.

Take a Tour of the Queen CityHereisanoverviewofthemajorcommercialdistrictsandcorridors:Downtown/Waterfront -Adensecommercialdistrictfullofrestaurants,localandnationalretailers,professionaloffices,andbanks.AtitsheartisthenewlyrenovatedChurch Street Marketplace,anoutdoorpedestrianshoppingdistrictandanundergroundTown Center.Pine Street/South End-Aneclecticmixofretailers,offices,manufacturers,cafes,thriftshops,artists’studios,galleries,antiques,andautomotiveandindustrialsupplycompanies.Old North End/North Street-Amixofretailers,restaurants,businessservices,grocers,andthriftshops. Riverside Avenue -Amixofautomotiveservices,restaurants,andmanufacturers.ThisbusyroadlinksBurlingtontoWinooski.North Avenue/New North End-MostofthecommercialactivityisfocusedaroundtheEthanAllenShoppingCenter,hometoanewsupermarket,hardwarestore,andmanyotherretailersandservices.

Location is destinyChoosealocationthatwillhelpgenerate,notdeter,customers.Istheretoomuchcompetitioninthearea?LookforaMerchant’sAssociation-groupadvertising,insurance,andsecuritymaybeavailable.Talktothecurrentorprevioustenantsregardingthelandlord’spropertymaintenanceandanylimitationsontheproperty.Carefullyrevieworconsiderhavinganattorneyreviewtheleasebeforesigning.Howmuchspaceisneeded?Whatarethecostspersq.ft.?Canyouremployeeseasilyarrive?Istherepublictransportation?Howmuchparkingdoyouhavevs.need?Howdoesyourlocationaffectyouradvertisingcosts?IsyourspaceADAaccessible?

Location

F i n a n c i n g

18

Beforeyoubringyour

financingrequestto

alender,obtainyour

creditreport.TheState

ofVermontrequires

creditreporting

agenciestogiveone

freereportperyear

toanyonerequesting

it.Lenderswillbe

lookingatthisinfoso

youshouldbeaware

ofitscontentbefore

theyscrutinizeit.Call

CreditBureauService

ofVermonttofindout

howtogetyours:

(800)888.4213

Navigating the High C’s of Credit

Advice

Coffee technicians analyzing coffee at Coffee Enterprises

Regardlessofwhereyouseekfunding–fromabank,alocaldevelopment

corporation,orarelative–aprospectivelenderwillreviewyourcreditworthiness.

Acompleteandthoroughlydocumentedloanrequest (includingabusinessplan,

seepages6-7)willhelpthelenderunderstandyouandyourbusiness.Thebasic

componentsofcreditanalysis,the“FiveC’s,”aredescribedbelowtohelpyou

understandwhatthelenderwilllookfor.

Capacity torepayisthemostcriticalofthefivefactors.Theprospectivelenderwillwanttoknowexactlyhowyouintendtorepaytheloan.Thelenderwillconsiderthecashflowfromthebusiness,thetimingoftherepayment,andtheprobabilityofsuccessfulrepaymentoftheloan.Paymenthistoryonexistingcreditrelationships–personalorcommercial–isconsideredanindicatorof

futurepaymentperformance.Prospectivelendersalsowillwanttoknowaboutyourcontingentreservesourcesofrepayment.

Capital isthemoneyyoupersonallyhaveinvestedinthebusinessandisanindicationofhowmuchyouhaveatriskshouldthebusinessfail.Prospectivelendersandinvestorswillexpectyoutohavecontributedfromyourownassetsandtohaveundertakenpersonalfinancialrisktoestablishthebusinessbeforeaskingthemtocommitanyfunding.

Collateral orguaranteesareadditionalformsofsecurityyoucanprovidethelender.Givingalendercollateralmeansthatyoupledgeanassetyouown,suchasyourhome,tothelenderwiththeagreementthatitwillbetherepaymentsourceincaseyoucan’trepaytheloan.Aguarantee,ontheotherhand,isjustthat–someoneelsesignsaguaranteedocumentpromisingtorepaytheloanifyoucan’t.Somelendersmayrequiresuchaguaranteeinadditiontocollateralassecurityforaloan.

Coffee technicians analyzing coffee at Coffee Enterprises

19

Conditionsfocusontheintendedpurposeoftheloan.Willthemoneybeusedforworkingcapital,additionalequipmentorinventory?Thelenderalsowillconsiderthelocaleconomicclimateandconditionsbothwithinyourindustryandinotherindustriesthatcouldaffectyour

business.

Characteristhegeneralimpressionyoumakeonthepotentiallenderorinvestor.Thelenderwillformasubjectiveopinionasto

whetherornotyouaresufficientlytrustworthytorepaytheloanor

generateareturnonfundsinvestedinyourcompany.Youreducational

backgroundandexperienceinbusinessandin

yourindustrywillbereviewed.Thequalityofyourreferencesand

thebackgroundandexperiencelevelsofyouremployeesalsowill

betakenintoconsideration.

Formanystart-ups,cooperationamonglendersisthekey.Many

newbusinessesneedtopiecetogetherapatchworktosatisfytheir

financing.Banks,alternativelenders,governmentprograms,family

andfriendsoftenbecomepartnerstoassistinthedevelopment

ofbusiness.Ifyouencounterresistanceinobtainingfinancing,get

creative.

Whatifyoudon’tqualifyfortraditionalfinancingthroughabank?Thereareseveral“alternativelenders”listedinthefinancingdirectorysectionofthisguide(page30).Theselendersoftenhavemoreflexibilitythanbanks.Onceyourbusinessisestablishedandproven,abankinginstitutionwillbemorelikelytofavorablyconsiderfuturerequests.Ingeneral,bankshavestricterguidelinesonriskthanalternativelenders.However,banksarebettersuitedtogrowalongwithyourbusiness,andtheirmanyvaluableservicesandproductscouldultimatelypresentyourventurewithmorechoicesandgreaterflexibility.

Financingyourstart-uporexpansionshouldbeconsideredasyoubeginyourplanning.Itmakesnosensetothinkofplanningandfinancingseparately.Financingcantakeanunexpectedamountoftime,soidentifyingkeyissuesbothdependentandindependentofyourplaniswise.Meetwithoneoftheorganizationslistedonpage4andhaveaconversation.

Advice

Putyourselfinthe

lender’sshoes:If

someonewaslooking

toborrowmoneyfrom

you,whatwouldyou

wanttoknowbefore

youlentyourmoney?

Notes

20

Special

Planonuptosix

weeksforyour

HealthPermitand

eightweeksforyour

LiquorLicense.

Readon.

Restaurants,bars,hotels,

andcaterers,among

others,arerequiredto

paytheState’smeals

tax,currentlyat9%.

WhenfilingaStatetax

IDapplication,there

willbeaplaceonthat

formtoestablishthat

account.CalltheVT

Dept.ofTaxesforinfo:

(802)828.2551

Meals Tax

Restaurants, Bars, Delis, Lodgings, Catering Services, Amusements

C o n s i d e r a t i o n s

Advice

Makesureyou read page 5,“Start-up

Basics,”forinformationallstart-upsneed

toconsider.You’llfinditemssuchas

registeringyourbusinesswiththestate,

filingforataxidentificationnumber,andwhenandwhytocontactPlanning&Zoningand

PublicWorks.

ContacttheHealth Department(802)863.7200.You’llneedaHealthPermit.Obtain

thispermitapplicationonlineatwww.healthvermont.govorbycallingthelocalofficeat(802)863.7221.Oncetheapplicationisreviewed,theywillscheduleasitevisittoinspectyouroperation.Planforatleasttendays.

However,beforetheHealthDepartmentcanissuethepermit,you(excludingcaterers)needtoobtainapermitfromtheAgency of Natural Resourcesthatcertifiesthatyouhaveadequatewater/wastewaterservicesforthecapacityofyourestablishment.Callalocalpermitspecialistat(802)879.5676,haveadiscussion,andobtainanapplication.Goodadvicewouldbetovisitwww.anr.state.vt.us/dec/permit_hb/smallbus.htmtoreadabouttheprocess.Itcantakeuptothreeweekstoobtainthispermit,soplanahead.

ContacttheClerk/Treasurer’sOffice(802)865.7000.You’llneedinformationandformsfortheGross Receipts taxesandforacquiringaliquor license.TheClerk’sOfficealsoadministerstobaccolicenses,entertainmentpermits,outsideconsumptionpermits,andcateringpermits.

What are Gross Receipts Taxes?TheCityrequiresbusinessesthatsellmeals,alcohol,chargeadmissionsforamusements,orareconsideredahotel,motel,B&B,etc.,toregisterwiththeCity.Theymustfilemonthlyreturnsandpay2%taxesonalladmissions,alcohol,amusementsandmeals.ContacttheCityClerkatCityHallforforms(802)865.7000.

21

Obtaining a Liquor License A12-Step Program?

Theprocessof

obtainingaliquor

licenserequiressome

planningandpatience

asitcantakeupto2

monthstoaccomplish.

Yourapplication

foraliquorlicense

willreceivemany

wonderfulreviews

includingchecksbythe

PoliceDepartment,

theCityAttorney,

Clerk/Treasurer’s

Office,Planning&

Zoning,License/

LocalControlSub-

Committee,theLocal

ControlCommittee,

andtheStateLiquor

Commission.

Advice

Old Vermont

TheCityClerk,(802)865.7000,atCityHallprovidesinformationandformsforobtainingaliquorlicense.YourapplicationforaliquorlicensewillreceivereviewsbythePoliceDepartment,theCityAttorney,Clerk/Treasurer’sOffice,Planning&Zoning,License/LocalControlSub-Committee,theLocalControlCommittee,andtheStateLiquorCommission.SteponeistofillouttheappropriateLiquorLicenseapplication(therearethreetypesandfeesapply)andsubmitittotheClerk/Treasurer’sOffice.TheClerkwillscheduletheapplicanttoappearbeforetheLicense/LocalControlSub-Committee,whichwillthenmakeitsrecommendationtotheLocalControlCommittee.

Ifapproved,theClerk’sOfficesendstheapplicationtothestateforfinalapproval.TheClerk’sOfficewillnotifytheapplicant.

Applicationformsareavailableonlineatwww.state.vt.us/dlc/licensing/applications.html.

Obtaining an Entertainment Permit. Wanttohostindoororoutdoor entertainment?Anapplicationisavailable throughtheClerk/Treasurer’sOffice, (802)865.7000,atCityHall.Returnthe applicationalongwitha$100fee($25foraspecialevent).TheLicense/LocalControlSub-CommitteewillreviewandmakeitsrecommendationtotheLocalControlCommission.TheEntertainmentPermityearbeginsMay1st.

Obtaining a Catering Permit. FirstapplyforaPermit/NumberthroughtheVermont

DepartmentofHealth,(802)863.7200,at108CherryStreet,3rdFloor.Afteryoureceiveyournumber,youmustobtainaRequestforCateringformfromtheClerkTreasurer’sOffice.Afterapproval,theClerk’sOfficewillmailtheapplicationforfinalreviewtotheVermontLiquorControlBoardinMontpelier.

You should also contact the Vermont Department of Health (802) 863.7200 and obtain its Guide to Starting a New Food or Lodging Business in Vermont.Make sure you read page 5 for the “everyday” considerations of starting a business.

13/4oz.gin(Londondrystyle)

1/4oz.gradeBmaplesyrup

1/2oz.freshlemonjuice

1/4oz.freshorangejuice

3dashesUrbanMoon-shine™MapleBitters

Shakeallingredientsvigorouslyandstrainintochilledglass.Topwith2dashesMaplebittersRecipe provided by Urban Moonshine™, Burlngton, VT

22

Advice

C o n s i d e r a t i o n sSpecial

Home-Based BusinessesA home occupation zoning permit is required for any business to operate out of an owner’s home. (Note: If you rent your home, make sure to check if operating a business is allowed in your lease.)

Permit Process: VisitthePlanning&Zoningwebsiteatwww.ci.burlington.vt.us/planningtogetacopyoftheZoningPermitApplicationForm,aHomeOccupationquestionnaireandinformation.TherearetwolevelsofHomeOccupations,onethatsimplyneeds“AdministrativeApproval”(withnon-refundablefee)andtheotherbeing“ConditionalUseApproval”whichisreviewedbytheDevelopmentReviewBoard(whichhasadifferentnon-refundablefee).Todeterminewhichoneyouwillneed,visitthewebsiteandreviewSection5.4.6oftheZoningOrdinance.Alternatively,youcanjustpickupthephoneanddiscussyourprojectwithP&Ztogetagoodideawhatlevelyou’reapplyingfor.Ifyouaremodifyingyourhometoaccommodateyourbusiness,youmayalsoneedtoobtainabuildingpermitfromtheDepartmentofPublicWorks(802)863.9094.

Street VendorsChurch Street Marketplace

Again,callingPlanning&

ZoningortheCommunity

&EconomicDevelopment

Officebeforeyoustart

yourprojectcansave

theday.Discussyour

needsandtheprocessof

reachingyourgoals.

Complicationsareeasier

toovercomeifyoucan

prepareahead.Untangling

asituationafterthefact

isalmostalwaysmore

difficultandmorecostly.

Home-based Bus inesses , Street Vendors, and Professionals

TobeavendorontheChurchStreetMarketplace,youmustapplytotheChurchStreetMarketplaceCommissionlocatedat2ChurchSt.,Suite2A,orcall(802)863.1648.Inyourapplication,youwillneedtoattachphotographsordrawingsofyourcartshowingallsidesandmeasurements.Thereisanapplicationfee.Alongwiththeapplication,youmustsubmitaVendorApplicationchecklist.

VendorLicensefeesvarydependingonvendortypeandlocationwithintheMarketplace.Foodvendors,remembertosignupforagrossreceiptsaccountwiththeClerk/Treasurer’sOffice.

23

Street Vendors, cont’d

Beyond the Church Street Marketplace

General Peddling District.IncludesalllocationsthroughouttheCityexceptadesignatedareaofdowntownandwithintheparks.Monthlyoryearlyfeesapplyforeachlicense.Vehicleendorsementscarryadditionalfees.

Central Peddling District.Includesadesignatedareaofdowntown.Yearly,six-month,ormonthlyfeesapplyforeachlicense.Vehicle

endorsementsarenotapplicable.

University Place.Thereareonlysevenspacesavailable.Peddlersmustsignanagreement.Thereisawaitinglist.

Complete and submit a Peddler License ApplicationtotheClerk’sOffice.Youwillbeaskedforadescriptionofyourcart,standorvehicleandforaproposedlocation.

Professional RegulationThe Secretary of State’s Officelicensesthefollowingprofessions.Ifyourprofessionislistedbelow,givethemacall(802)828.2386orvisithttp://vtprofessionals.org.

Accountancy, Acupuncture, Architecture, Athletic Trainer, Auctioneer, Barber/Cosmetology, Boxing, Chiropractic, Crematory Establishment, Dental, Dietician, Electrolysis, Engineer, Funeral Service, Hearing Aid Dispenser, Land Surveyor, Marriage/Family Therapy, Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Midwife, Motor Vehicle Racing, Naturopath, Nursing, Nursing Home Administrator, Occupational Therapy, Opticians, Optometry, Osteopath, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Private Investigative/Security, Psychoanalysis, Psychology, Psychotherapy, Radiologic Technology, Real Estate Appraiser, Real Estate Broker/Salesperson, Respiratory Care Practitioner, Social Worker, Tattooists/Body Piercers, Veterinary.

ConsulttheState’sProfessionalRegulationwebsiteforagencieswhoregulatethefollowingprofessions:Attorneys, Drug & Alcohol Counselors, Licensed Educators, Insurance Agents/Brokers, Plumbers, Electricians, Polygraph Examiners, Well Drillers, Physicians, Physicians Assistants, Podiatrists, Speech Pathologist/Audiologist.

Other Things You

Need to Know for

Peddler Licenses

Allpeddlersmustcheck

withPlanning&Zoning

(802)865.7188toseeif

theywillneeda Home

Occupations permit.

FoodPeddlersare

requiredtoputdowna

refundabledeposit.

Sellingdoor-to-door

requiresaPeddler’s

license.

Farmers,delivery

services,andnon-

profitsolicitorsare

notrequiredtohavea

peddlinglicense.

24

Havingprofessional

helpsuchasan

accountantand

attorneywillgreatly

reduceyourriskof

makingmisstepsin

planningandrunning

yourbusiness.Also,

payrollservicessave

youmuchvaluable

time,andtheyfile

manyofyourtaxesas

partoftheirservice.

Advice

DirectoryPubl i c & Pr ivate

Bus iness Resources

CEDO staff

Community & Economic Development Office(CEDO)-Connectsentrepreneurswithlocaltraining,financingandnetworkingopportunities.Providesinformationaboutregulatoryrequirements,energysavingsopportunities,continuationoperations,leasablecommercialspaceandvacantindustriallandintheCity,andhasabusinessloanprogram.(802)865.7187|Fax:(802)865.7024|TTY:(802)865.7142|www.cedoburlington.org

Micro Business Development Program(MBDP)-Offerslowandmoderateincomeentrepreneursfreeassistanceforstarting,expandingorimprovingtheirbusinesses.Servicesinclude:one-on-onebusinesscounseling,businessplanningandloanpackagingassistance,peermarketingsupportgroup,workshopsandtraining,creditcoachingandhouseholdfinancialeducation.(802)860.1417x106|www.vermontmicrobusiness.org

Small Business Development Center(SBDC)-Offersfreebusinesscounselingforpeoplewithquestionsregardingstartinganewbusiness,acquisitionofabusiness,marketing,expansion,finance,etc.(802)658.9228|www.vtsbdc.org

SCORE-Anetworkofexperiencedbusinesspeoplewhocanprovidesmallbusinessownerswithfree,confidentialandunlimitedadviceonbusinessplanningandmanagement.ClientsarematchedwithaSCOREcounselorwhoseexperiencematchesabusinessowner’sneeds.

(802)951.6762|www.score284.org

Women’s Small Business Program(WSBP)-“Succeedonyourownterms,notyourown.”Offersacontinuumofservicesthatprovideswomenwithbusinessskillsandsupporttostart,operateandexpandmicro-businesses.Offersafifteen-weekbusinessskillstrainingprogram,manyworkshops,and‘GettingSerious’-aone-dayworkshoptoexplorebusinessownership.(802)846.7338|fax(802)846.7237|www.wsbp.org

Women’s Agricultural Network-Assistswomenstartingorexpandingfarmsoragriculturally-relatedbusinesses.Provideseducation,technicalassistanceandnetworkingopportunitiesforeachstepofthedevelopmentprocess.(802)223.2389|www.uvm.edu/~wagn/

GBIC(formerlytheGreaterBurlingtonIndustrialCorporation)-Aneconomicdevelopmentcorporationthatservesasacatalystforindustrialandeconomicgrowthin

ChittendenCounty.(802)862.5726|www.gbicvt.org

Vermont Business Materials Exchange-VBMeXisafreeservicewhosegoalistominimizewastebyfosteringtheexchangeofreusableresources.ThroughVBMeX,companieswithsurplusorby-productmaterialsconnectwithotherbusinessesorindividualswhocanreusethesematerialsproductively.Whilebusinessessavemoneyondisposalfees,theycanalsoreducetheirimpactontheenvironment.(802)254.3636|www.vbmx.org/index.php

Vermont Software Developers Alliance(vtSDA)-Offersnetworkingopportunitiesandcollaborationtohelpitsmemberspromotetheirproductsandservices.Theyadvocateonbehalfoftheirmembersandhelptoorganizecollectivemarketing,increasingexposuretopotentialcustomers.TofindoutmoreaboutvtSDA,cometoamonthlymeeting.(802)735.0840|info@vtsda.org|www.vtsda.org

Vermont Bioscience Alliance (VBSA)-Anumberofforward-lookingVermontbiosciencecompaniesformedanalliancetostrengthenthealready-thrivingindustryhereandtodotheirpartinfurtheringbioscienceresearchinVermontandaroundtheworld.vermontbiotech@gmail.comwww.vtbiosciences.org

25

“Knowinghowto

navigatethepermitting

systemiskeyto

stayingonschedule

duringbuild-out.We

wereabletoopen

withinsixweeksof

movingintoourspace

byworkingwith

qualifiedcontractors,

consultingwith

CEDO,andsetting

upvisitswithlocal

authoritiestoget

advicebeforefinal

inspections.”

- Jodi Whalen, co-

owner,AugustFirst

Bakery

Advice

26

VT Global Trade Partnership Offerscompleteassistanceforinternationaltrade.(802)828.1681www.economicdevelopment.vermont.gov/Programs/GlobalTrade/tabid/121/Default.aspx

Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center(VMEC)Providesone-on-onesupportandservicesthroughFieldEngineerstoVermont’ssmallandmid-sized(under500employees)manufacturers.VMEC’sgoalistoassistVermontmanufacturerstoincreaseproductivity,modernizeprocesses,andimprovecompetitiveness.Ongoingtrainingopportunitiesdesignedspecificallyformanufacturersarealsooffered.VMEC,60MainStreet|(802)660.2737|www.vmec.org

Vermont Business Assistance Network(VBAN)AnaccessibleresourcedesignedtoprovidetimelyandpertinentinformationtoVermontbusinessesinterestedinparticipatinginnewmarketsfortheirproductsorservices,increasingcompetitiveness,orbuilding“teamingarrangements”withotherbusinesses.Theinformationisfreeandcanbeviewedatwww.thinkvermont.com.VBANisalsohometotheGovernment Marketing Assistance Center(GMAC).GMACwascreatedtoassistVermontbusinesses,includingminority-owned,woman-ownedandsmallbusinesses,tobecomeinvolvedintheGovernmentcontractingprocess.Participatingbusinesseshaveaccesstocontractingopportunitiesandgainabetterunderstandingofthefederalandstatemarketplaceandtheknowledgenecessaryforsuccessin

governmentcontracting.ContacttheVermontDept.ofEconomicDevelopment,GMAC,NationalLifeBuilding,Drawer20,Montpelier,VT05620(802)828.5240www.thinkvermont.com

SenatorLeahy’saward-

winningsite,

www.leahy.senate.gov,

ischockfullofhelpful

informationforthe

Burlingtonentrepreneur.

CheckouttheJobs&

EconomySection.

Advice

Burlington Electric Department-BEDrunsseveralsuccessfulenergy-savingprogramswhichcangiveyourbusinessacompetitiveedge.585PineSt.|802-658-0300|Fax(802)865-7500|www.burlingtonelectric.com

BurlingtonTelecom-Amunicipally-sponsoredbroadbandnetworktoservetheadvancedcommunicationneedsoftheCityofBurlington.Itofferscabletelevision,telephone,andInternetservices.200ChurchSt.|(802)540.0007|Fax(802)652.4220www.burlingtontelecom.net

Invitetheseutilitiesto

yourbusiness.Consult

withthemasyouplan.

Theirprogramscan

mean$$$inyour

pocket:Burlington

companieshavesaved

millionsofdollars

inenergyandutility

costs.

Advice

27

Onceyou’vechosen

alocation,makean

appointmentwith

thePoliceandFire

Departmentsbeforeit’s

toolate.Theywillvisit

yoursiteandadviseyou

onsafetyandsecurity

issues.Youcanexpect

anannualunannounced

visitfromtheFire

Department’sinspectors.

Advice

Utilities/ProgramsChittenden Solid Waste District - Tohelpbusinessescomplywithrecyclinglaws,CSWDprovidesavarietyofassistance.(802)872.8100|www.cswd.net|info@cswd.net

Vermont Food Venture Center-ThemissionoftheVermontFoodVentureCenteristomakeavailableallneededresourcesforpeopletostartaspecialtyfoodbusinessandtohelpgrowanexistingbusiness.TheCenteralsosupportsstrengtheningoftheVermontagriculturalindustrythroughdevelopingvalue-addedproductsandprovidingongoingtechnicalassistancetotheState’sspecialtyfoodsproducers.TheCenterisorganizedintothreefullyequippedproductionareas.POBox138,Fairfax,VT05454www.edcnv.org/programs/northern_enterprises/food_venture/(802)849.2000|Fax(802)849.2158

Vermont Gas-Aspartofitscommitmenttotheefficientuseofenergy,VermontGasoffersanumberofprogramstoitscommercialcustomersknownas“EnergyExtenders.”(802)863.4511|Fax(802)658.3926|www.vermontgas.com

Public Works Department, Water/Wastewater Division-Calltodeterminewhetheryourbusinessqualifiesforthespecialeconomicdevelopmentrate.234PennyLane|(802)863.4501|Fax(802)864.8233

28

CITY HALL 149 CHURCH ST.

Mayor’s Office (3rdFloor)(802)865.7272Fax:(802)865.7270www.ci.burlington.vt.us

Community & EconomicDevelopment Office (3rdFloor)(802)865.7144|Fax:(802)865.7024TTY:802-865.7142www.cedoburlington.org

Planning & Zoning (1stFloor)(802)865.7188Fax:(802)865.7195www.ci.burlington.vt.us/planning

City Tax Assessor (1stFloor)(802)865.7114|Fax:(802)865.7116www.ci.burlington.vt.us/assessor

Clerk/Treasurer’s Office(2ndFloor)(802)865.7000|Fax:(802)865.7014www.ci.burlington.vt.us/ct

City Council(802)865.7136www.ci.burlington.vt.us/citycouncil

OTHER CITY DEPARTMENTSepart

Burlington City Arts135ChurchSt.(802)865.7166www.burlingtoncityarts.com

Burlington Electric Department585PineSt.(802)658.0300|Fax:(802)865.7500www.burlingtonelectric.com

City of Burlington

Most City

departments can be

accessed from the

City’s homepage:

www.ci.burlington.vt.us

What’s at City Hall?Mayor’sOffice

CEDO

Planning&Zoning

Clerk/Treasurer

CityAssessor

CityAttorney

LegacyProject

ContoisAuditorium

PublicRestrooms*

*votedbestofCity

-2002

MainStreet,lookingeastfromChurchStreet,1937

NeedtovisitCityHall

ordosomebusiness

downtown?Take

advantageofthefree

two-hourparkingatCity

garages.Ownabusiness

downtown?Promotethis

valuableserviceatevery

opportunity.

Advice

Burlington Fire Department136S.WinooskiAve.(802)864.4554www.fire.ci.burlington.vt.us

Burlington Public Schools150ColchesterAve.(802)865.5332|www.bsdvt.org

Burlington Police DepartmentOneNorthAve.(802)658.2704|www.bpdvt.org

Burlington Telecom200ChurchSt.,Suite201(802)540.0007|www.burlingtontelecom.net

Church Street Marketplace2ChurchSt.,Suite2A(802)863.1648|Fax:(802)865.7252www.churchstmarketplace.com

Department of Public Works 645PineSt.(802)863.9094|Fax:(802)863.0466www.dpw.ci.burlington.vt.us

Fletcher Free Library235CollegeSt.(802)863.3403|www.fletcherfree.org

Parks and Recreation645PineSt.(802)864.0123|www.enjoyburlington.com

Secretary of State, Corporate Div.(802)828.2386|Fax:(802)828.2853www.sec.state.vt.us

Dept. of Taxes, Business Tax Div.(802)828.2551|Fax:(802)828.5787www.state.vt.us/tax

State of VT Dept of Labor (VDOL)Unemployment Compensation Div.(802)828.4000|Fax:(802)828.4022www.labor.vermont.gov/Business/workerscompensation/tabid/114/Default.aspx

VT Occupational Safety & Health (Vosha)(802)828.2765or(800)287.2765www.labor.vermont.gov/?tabid=74

Worker’s Compensation(802)828.2286www.labor.vermont.gov/Default.aspx?tabid=114

State of VT Department of HealthBurlingtonOffice(802)863.7200or(800)464.4343www.healthvermont.gov

VT Agency of Agriculture(802)828.2416|www.vermontagriculture.com

Dept. of Economic Development(802)828.3080|www.thinkvermont.comFax:(802)828.3258

State of VT Agency of Natural Resources(802)241.3600www.anr.state.vt.us

Vermont Chamber of Commerce(802)223.3443|Fax:(802)229.4257www.vtchamber.com

FederalU.S. Internal Revenue ServiceBurlingtonOffice-(802)859.9308CourthousePlaza199MainStreetBurlington,VT05401www.irs.gov

Tel:(800)829.1040(Information/ProblemResolution)

TTY:(800)829.4059

(800)TAX-FORM(Forms)

(800)329.4477(AutomatedRefundInfo/RecordedTaxInformation)

29

Getthe“Guide to Vermont Business Taxes”fromtheVermontDepartmentofTaxeswebsite,andthe“Business Tax Kit”fromtheIRSwebsite.

RehabilitationState of Vermont

Dealer.com’s Ride

Advice

TheStateofVermontandtheFederalGovernmentoffertaxcreditsandotherincentivesforrehabilitativeworkonbuildingslocatedinthedesignateddowntowndistrict.Checkoutmapatcedo.burlington.orgorcallCEDOformoreinformation.(802)865.7144

Banks & Alternative Lenders

30

People’s United Bank (802)658.4000www.peoples.com

Merchants Bank(802)658.3400www.mbvt.com

TD BankNorth(802)658.1010www.banknorth.com

Key Bank(802)660.4170www.keybank.com

Citizens Financial Group (802)951.2479www.citizensbank.com

Downtown Small Business

Initiative

CitizensBankhasestablisheda

Downtown Small Business Initiative.

Thisprogramtargetsbusinessesinthedowntownarea.

Call(802)951.2479formoreinformation.

Readsectionsonbusinessplans

(pp.6-7)andfinancing(pp.18-19)beforeyouapplyforaloan.Visitlenderswebsitesto

helpdecidewhichloansaremostappropriate.

Burlington Community & Economic Development Office (CEDO)Providesgaplendingtobusinessownerswhoneedtosupplementothersourcesofdebtandequityfinancing.(802)865.7187|www.cedoburlington.org

USDA Business & Industry Direct Loan ProgramGapfinancingforrealestate,machinery,andequipmentpurchases.

(802)828.6031|www.rurdev.usda.gov/vt/vtbuscoop.htm

Community CapitalOffersfinancingandotherassistancetobusinessesinVermontthatdonotyetmeettherequirementsfortraditionalbankfinancing.(802)479.0167|www.cvcapital.org

Vermont Community Loan Fund (VCLF)Financingforrealestate,fixedassets,operatingcapital,lineofcredit,

purchaseorderfinancing,anddebtrestructuring.(802)223.1448|www.vclf.org

Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) Managesawiderangeoflow-costlendingprogramsforsmall-andmedium-sizedbusinesses.Lendingiscustomizedtobestfitabusiness’sparticularneeds.VtJobStartloanscanbeusedtostart,strengthenorexpandsmallbusinesses.Financingusesincludeequipment,inventoryandoperatingcapital.VEDA(802)828.5627|www.veda.org

Northfield Savings Bank(802)NSB-CASHwww.nsbvt.com

NBT Bank (802)318.9150www.nbtbank.com

Vermont State Employees Credit Union(VBiz)FinancialServicesforsmallbusinesses(800)371.5162|www.vsecu.com

Vermont Federal Credit UnionCommerciallendingonrealestateisavailable(802)658.0225|www.vtfcu.org

Opportunities Credit Union (802)865.2003|www.oppsvt.org

Banks & Alternative Lenders

31

Eachyearover

aweekendin

September,theSouth

EndArts+Business

Associationproduces

oneofBurlington’s

mostpopular

events,theannual

SouthEndArtHop.

Businessesandart

studiosjointogether

toshowcasethe

eclecticanddiverse

talentscentered

intheSouthEnd-

Burlington’sartistand

manufacturingdistrict.

Formoreinformation

call

(802)859.9222orvisit

www.seaba.com.

Burlington Business AssociationPrivatebusinessadvocacygroupdedicatedtokeepingBurlingtonthecultural,economic,politicalandeducationalcenterofVermont.TheBBAincludesmembersfromawidespectrum

ofbusinessownersandprofessionalsaswellasthosehavinganinterestinthevitalityofthedowntown.(802)863.1175|www.bbavt.org

Old North End Arts & Business Network (ONEABN)MissionistostimulatetheeconomicvitalityandenhancethediversemixofBurlington’sOldNorthEndartsandbusinesscommunity.(802)865.7187|www.oneabiz.com

South End Arts + Business Association (SEABA)EstablishedtoenhancetheeconomicvitalityandeclecticmixofBurlington’sartsandbusinesscommunitylocatedintheareafromMainSt.onsouthtoFlynnAvenue.(802)859.9222|www.seaba.com

The Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce Morethan4,000businessmenandwomenparticipateinthischamberofcommerce,with80percentofthemembershiprepresentingsmallbusinessorcompanieswithfewerthanthirtyemployees.ThemissionoftheLCRCCistopromoteandsupportthehealthyenvironmentthatmakestheLakeChamplainregionandVermonttheidealplacetolive,workanddobusiness.(802)863.3489|www.vermont.org

Vermont Businesses for Social ResponsibilityFostersabusinessethicinVermontthatrecognizestheopportunityandresponsibilityofthebusinesscommunitytosetahighstandardforprotectingthenatural,human,andeconomicenvironmentsofourcitizens.Over600memberbusinesses.(802)862.8347|www.vbsr.org

Lawyer Referral Service(800)639.7036|www.vtbar.org

Vermont Society of Certified Public Accountants(802)229.4939|www.vtcpa.org

Vermont Retail Association (802)879.6999|www.vtretailers.com

Associations & Referral Services

Art Hop

32

“Burlingtonofferskeyservicestosupport

theneedsofbusinesses:twohoursoffreeparkingandthefreeshuttleservice.”

KellyDevine,ExecutiveDirector,

BurlingtonBusiness

Association

Transportation

Advice

Burlington International Airport management:(802)863.28748AM-4:30PMM-Finfoonflights:(802)863.18899AM-midnightdailywww.btv.aero

The Lake Champlain Ferries(802)864.9804|www.ferries.com

AMTRAK Burlington/EssexJunction(ESX)29RailroadAve.,EssexJct.,VT(800)USA-RAIL|www.amtrak.com

Chittenden County Transportation Authority (CCTA)(802)864.2282|www.cctaride.org(includesbusservice,carpoolinginfo,connections)

Greyhound/Package Express (800)862.2510|www.greyhound.com

State of VT - Connecting CommutersFreecarpool/vanpoolmatchingservice,ridesharingtips,andotherpracticalinformationongettingaroundbybiking,walking,bus,trainandferry.(800)685-RIDE|www.connectingcommuters.org

Carshare VTAffordableandeasyaccesstoanetworkofvehiclesthroughoutthecityofBurlington.(802)861.2340|www.carsharevt.org

33

15,23,319,20,2920-2131

3020-2131326-7,18-199

20-21

4,6,24,28,30133122-2328289,20-21,23,289

20-2111

14-15

5,8,156,18-19,3017

i n d e xaccountants

AgencyofNaturalResourcesamusements

associations,trade

banksbars

BurlingtonBusinessAssoc.(BBA)BurlingtonInternationalAirport

businessplanbusinesspersonalpropertytax

cateringCommunity&Economic

DevelopmentOffice(CEDO)certificateofoccupancyChamberofCommerceChurchSt.Marketplace

CityDepartmentsCityHall

Clerk/Treasurer’sOfficecommercialpropertytaxes

delicatessensdesignreviewguides

employees,hiring

federalemployerID(EIN)financing

findingalocation

GBICgrossreceiptstaxes

handicapaccessibilityHealthDept.

hiringhomebusinesses

inspection,publicworksinsurance

internetaccessInternalRevenueService(IRS)

legalassistancelegalstructureofbusiness

liquorlicenselodgings

MicroBusinessDevelopmentProgram(MBDP)

meals&roomstax

5,259,20

11,1720,2914-159,20-21,22

139278,15,29

24,315,820-2120-21

4,6,249,20

NorthStreet,circa1930

2727272727

22-232625319,20-21,299,298-9,29

3027265,8,2926

164,2410

permits,cateringpermits,entertainmentpermits,HealthDept.

permits,homebusinessespermits,outsideconsumption

permits,Planning&Zoningpermits,PublicWorks

permits,water/wastewaterPlanning&Zoning

professionallicensesPublicWorks

recyclingreferrals

refugeebusinessassistance

registration,StateofVT

RenewalCommunityrestaurants

SCORESmallBusinessDevelopment

Center(SBDC)SouthEndArts+BusinessAsso-

ciation(SEABA)startingyourbusiness

Stateagencies&departments

taxes,CityofBurlingtontaxes,StateofVermont

taxes,FederalThinkVermont.comtradeassociations

transportation

202120-2122215,10-11,225,12-13,22205,10-11,17,21,22-23,28235,10-11,12-13,22,28

25,27314,2481620-21

24

4,24

315,829

9,208-9,15,20,298,15,16,29263132

utilities,BurlingtonElectricutilities,BurlingtonTelecom

utilities,ChittendenSolidWasteDistr.utilities,VermontGas

utilities,Water/Wastewater

vendorlicenseVTBusinessAssistanceNetworkVTBusinessMaterialsExchange

VTBusinessesforSocialResponsibilityVTStateDept.ofHealth

VTDept.ofLaborVTDept.ofTaxes

VermontEconomicDevelopmentAuthority(VEDA)

VTFoodVentureCenterVTManufacturingExtensionCenter

VTSecretaryofStateVTGlobalTradePartnership

WageCreditsWomen’sSmallBusinessProgram

zoning

34