Doing business in the Rhode Island District

Business requirements

SBA’s Business Guide lists the requirements needed to start, grow, and expand your business. Since laws and taxes vary by state, here’s what you need to do before starting your business in our area.

Business name and registration

Register your business name with the county clerk where your business is located. If you are a corporation, you will also need to register with the Secretary of State.

Business licensing and zoning

Licenses are typically administered by a variety of state and local departments. It is important to consider zoning regulations when choosing a site for your business. Contact the local business license office where you plan to locate your business. You may not be permitted to conduct business out of your home or engage in industrial activity in a retail district.

Taxes

IRS Rhode Island Taxpayer Assistance Center
380 Westminster St.
Providence, RI 02903
Phone: 401-525-4282

Rhode Island State Taxes
One Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401-574-8484

Health and safety

RI Department of Health
Three Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401-222-5960

Rhode Island OSHA
380 Westminster Mall, Room 543
Providence, RI 02903
Phone: 401-528-4669

State small business profiles

Need information on the local business landscape? SBA's Office of Advocacy has the latest demographic and statistics on local small business economic activity.

Local assistance

Need help? Get free business counseling in your area.

Find counselors

SBA lending in our area

Loan programs

Learn more about SBA's 7(a) loans, 504 loans, and microloans that you can use for your business.

Find a loan
Local lenders

Download a list of participating lenders in our area.

Download lender list
Lender Match

Describe your business needs and get matched with an SBA-backed lender in your area.

Get matched with a lender
Lending activity reports

View 7(a) and 504 lending activity reports from our district.

View lending reports