Getting Started
Download Guide to Doing BusinessWhat Every Successful Business Needs to Do
Research Your Business Idea
Is this the right time to start your business? Check out this informational questionnaire from the Small Business Development Center. Speak with the Community Development Department at Peabody City Hall about your idea to see how it would fit into Peabody. Contact the Business Liaison at 978-538-5775.
Develop a Business Plan
Contact the Small Business Development Center at Salem State University, SCORE, U.S. Small Business Association (SBA) or other Business & Professional Service companies listed in the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce Directory.
Secure Financing
Contact local banks and credit unions, including those listed in the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce Directory under Banking, Financing and Insurance, along with the Small Business Administration for business loans. You can also contact the Community Development Department at City Hall for various local loans including Community Development Authority Business Loans.
Pick a Business Name
To make sure your business name is properly registered and protected and web-ready, contact the US Small Business Administration for information.
Register Your Business
Prior to registering your business, you will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. To register your business, contact the Building Inspectors Office at Peabody City Hall for the proper paperwork, and once processed, bring it to the City Clerk’s Office at Peabody City Hall to receive your Business Certificate.
Find a Business Location
Check with local commercial real estate agents, including those listed in the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce Directory under Real Estate, regarding available properties for lease or sale, or check out loopnet.com, Sullivanteam.com or CombinedProperties.com.
Get the Necessary Permits and Licenses to Open Up Your New Location
Meet with a building inspector at City Hall regarding zoning requirements, licenses and permits.
Market Your Business
Contact local businesses, including those listed in the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce Directory under Advertising and Media, for assistance with logo design, advertising & promotion, website design, signs, window dressing, etc.
Enlist Financial Services
Check with local businesses, including those listed in the Peabody Chamber of Commerce Directory, for local business accounting, bookkeeping and tax services.
Hiring and Managing Employees
Contact the North Shore Workforce Investment Board for help finding workers. Learn about new hire reporting, employer tax obligations, workers compensation, withholdings, health and safety standards, and minimum wage information.
