FAQs

The El Paso Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) offers a variety of services to entrepreneurs, including business counseling, assistance with business registration and licensing, access to funding opportunities, business plan development support, tax information and resources, workshops and seminars, and networking opportunities.

  • To obtain a business license in El Paso, follow these steps:
    1. Choose a business structure and name.
    2. Register your business name with the County Clerk’s Office.
    3. Apply for a Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit if applicable.
    4. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.
    5. Apply for the necessary business licenses and permits through the City of El Paso.
    6. Comply with zoning laws and regulations.
    7. Pay any applicable fees and submit required documents.

For more detailed information visit our Permits & Licenses Tab

  • To obtain a business license in El Paso, follow these steps:
    1. Choose a business structure and name.
    2. Register your business name with the County Clerk’s Office.
    3. Apply for a Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit if applicable.
    4. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.
    5. Apply for the necessary business licenses and permits through the City of El Paso.
    6. Comply with zoning laws and regulations.
    7. Pay any applicable fees and submit required documents.

Yes, local regulations in El Paso include zoning laws, health and safety codes, signage regulations, and environmental regulations. It’s important to check with the City’s Planning and Inspections Department to ensure compliance with all local ordinances.

Visit: Planning & Inspections (elpasotexas.gov)

 

BOSS provides assistance with business plan development. They offer workshops, one-on-one counseling, and resources to help you create a comprehensive business plan tailored to your specific business needs.

Funding opportunities for startups in El Paso include loans and grants from the Small Business Administration (SBA), microloans from LiftFund, small business loans from PeopleFund, and various local and state grant programs. The Economic Development Department and BOSS can provide detailed information and assistance in accessing these funds.

You can access tax information and resources through the El Paso Business One Stop Shop (BOSS), the IRS website, and the Texas Comptroller’s office. BOSS offers guidance on tax obligations, filing requirements, and available deductions for small businesses.

  • Additionally, funding opportunities and support are available through our partners:
    • LiftFund: Provides microloans and small business loans, as well as specialized programs for women and veteran entrepreneurs.
    • PeopleFund: Offers loans ranging from $500 to $350,000, business education, and resources to help businesses in underserved communities.
    • JUST El Paso: Provides flexible, low-interest loans and business development services to small business owners in El Paso.
    • El Paso Collaborative: A certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that offers small business loans and technical assistance programs.

Visit: Businesses | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov)

  • BOSS regularly hosts workshops and seminars on various topics relevant to new entrepreneurs, including business planning, financial management, marketing strategies, and regulatory compliance. These events provide valuable information and networking opportunities.

To be updated with all the events please visit the Networking Tab 



BOSS can help you connect with other local businesses through networking events, business associations, and partnerships with local chambers of commerce. They facilitate introductions and provide platforms for business owners to collaborate and share resources. For more information, please visit the Events tab on our website.
Resources for minority-owned businesses in El Paso include specialized funding programs, certification assistance, business development workshops, and mentoring programs. BOSS and partners like the SBA and local minority business organizations provide support tailored to minority entrepreneurs.
The best ways to stay updated about new business regulations include subscribing to newsletters from BOSS and the City of El Paso, attending local business forums and workshops, and regularly checking the City’s official website for updates and announcements.
BOSS measures its impact through metrics such as the number of businesses assisted, funding secured for businesses, job creation, business survival rates, and feedback from entrepreneurs. They also conduct surveys and gather data to assess the effectiveness of their services.
Yes, BOSS offers mentorship programs that connect new entrepreneurs with experienced business owners and industry experts. These programs provide valuable guidance, support, and networking opportunities to help new businesses succeed.
You can get information about exporting goods from BOSS, the U.S. Commercial Service, and the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Export Assistance program. These resources offer guidance on export regulations, market research, and connecting with international buyers.
You can renew your business permits online through the City of El Paso’s official website. The online portal allows you to submit renewal applications, pay fees, and check the status of your permits.
BOSS can assist you in finding commercial real estate or office space by connecting you with local real estate agents, property listings, and economic development resources. The City of El Paso also provides information on available properties and incentives for businesses.
El Paso offers various incentives to encourage business investment, including tax abatements, grants, low-interest loans, workforce training programs, and expedited permitting processes. The Economic Development Department can provide detailed information on available incentives.
To comply with zoning laws, you should consult with the City’s Planning and Inspections Department to determine the zoning requirements for your business location. They can provide information on zoning classifications, permitted uses, and any necessary zoning changes or variances.
El Paso provides support for businesses affected by economic downturns through programs such as emergency loans, grants, technical assistance, and business counseling. BOSS and other local organizations offer resources to help businesses navigate financial challenges and recover.
You can access data and market research through BOSS, the El Paso Chamber of Commerce, local universities, and online databases. These resources provide valuable insights into market trends, customer demographics, and industry statistics to help you make informed business decisions.

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