SELECTING A LOCATION

You're embarking on a new business in Goodyear, but need a location. Contact the Goodyear Economic Development team for additional information.

Phone: 623.932-3025
Email: gyecdev@goodyearaz.gov

Things to consider
You've found a location. Have you considered these things?

• Is your site zoned for your business?
• What are the city's Design Guidelines?
• What are the Project Fee Estimates for a new business? 

Development process
The Development Center allows electronic submittal of Planning & Zoning, Civil Engineering, and Building Safety applications for anything from ground-up developments to sign permits through our Development Center Portal.

• Submit applications
• Make online payments
• Submit code compliance violations
• Schedule inspections
• Find project information and statuses

Getting ready to open
You are about ready to open your business, here's what you need to do:

• Apply for a Business Licenses (new business, owner change, location change, name change, reinstate license, close license)
• Schedule Inspections
• Join the Chamber of Commerce & plan your grand opening event
• Get tax information

Open for business
Welcome to Goodyear! Once you are open, check out these additional resources.

U.S. Small Business Administration

Business Guide to start your business

 SEE FULL BUSINESS GUIDE

Conduct market research

Market research will tell you if there’s an opportunity to turn your idea into a successful business. It’s a way to gather information about potential customers and businesses already operating in your area. Use that information to find a competitive advantage for your business.

RESEARCH

BUSINESS PLAN

Write business plan

Your business plan is the foundation of your business. It’s a road map for how to structure, run, and grow your new business. You’ll use it to convince people that working with you — or investing in your company — is a smart choice.

Fund your business

Your business plan will help you figure out how much money you’ll need to start your business. If you don’t have that amount on hand, you’ll need to either raise or borrow the capital. Fortunately, there are more ways than ever to find the capital you need.

FUNDING

 LOCATION

Pick business location

Your business location is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Whether you’re setting up a brick-and-mortar business or launching an online store, the choices you make could affect your taxes, legal requirements, and revenue.

Choose business structure

The legal structure you choose for your business will impact your business registration requirements, how much you pay in taxes, and your personal liability.

STRUCTURE

NAME

Choose business name

It’s not easy to pick the perfect name. You’ll want one that reflects your brand and captures your spirit. You’ll also want to make sure your business name isn’t already being used by someone else.

Register business

Once you’ve picked the perfect business name, it’s time to make it legal and protect your brand. If you’re doing business under a name different than your own, you’ll need to register with the federal government, and maybe your state government, too.

REGISTER

TAXES

Get federal & state tax IDs

You’ll use your employer identification number (EIN) for important steps to start and grow your business, like opening a bank account and paying taxes. It’s like a social security number for your business. Some — but not all — states require you to get a tax ID as well.

Apply for license & permits

Keep your business running smoothly by staying legally compliant. The licenses and permits you need for your business will vary by industry, state, location, and other factors.

LICENSE & PERMITS

BANKING

Open business account

A small business checking account can help you handle legal, tax, and day-to-day issues. The good news is it’s easy to set one up if you have the right registrations and paperwork ready.

OPEN SHOP

Congratulations! It's time to cut the big ribbon. Your business is officially open.
Now, focus on managing and growing your business!