Small Business Division
About
The Small Business Division provides business training, educational events, and coaching to empower entrepreneurs. Our mission is to foster job creation and support the growth of new and existing businesses by providing capacity-building information, tools, and resources.
Entrepreneurship
Start a Business
Connecting you to programs, opportunities, and resources to build or boost your small business goals.
Small Business Development
Classes and Workshops
Hands-on support to help grow in a competitive business environment.
📰 Small Business News
- - Upcoming Classes and Workshops
July Opportunities for Small Businesses
Drop in and develop your small business! Each month, we offer a rotating selection of skills building opportunities to bolster and grow your small business. All classes subject to change based on availability.
To register and learn more, visit: https://bit.ly/austinsmallbiz-classes
- - Applications Open: Artist Career Training
Apply by August 4
Artist Career Training is a six-week training program to advance your creative business and expand your professional network. Get access to resources available to enhance your business, including Professional Skills Development, Mentoring, and funding opportunities.
Learn more and Apply by August 4: Artist Career Training | Austin Economic Development | AustinTexas.gov
- - Mobile Food Vendors: Changes to Permitting as of July 1, 2026
Updates to Permitting Begin July 1, 2026
The City of Austin is transitioning administration of the Mobile Food Vending Program to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Mobile food vendors operating in Austin and Travis County should review the information below to ensure compliance with upcoming state requirements.
State Permit Requirements
Beginning July 1, 2026, mobile food vendors must hold a valid state Mobile Food Vending Permit issued by DSHS. Vendors may not operate without a state permit.Learn more through Austin Public Health: Mobile Food Vendors | Austin Public Health | AustinTexas.gov
Resources
The Austin Kiva Hub supports 0% lending to get your business the funding it deserves.
Direct, confidential support on best business practices.
Powered by SizeUp, leverage market analysis to measure business performance and find new customers.
The Austin Kiva Hub supports 0% lending to get your business the funding it deserves.
Direct, confidential support on best business practices.
Powered by SizeUp, leverage market analysis to measure business performance and find new customers.
From idea to implementation, our events offer networking opportunities for every aspect of a small business.
Offering specialized training in collaborative, nonprofit, and creative industries.
Rotating opportunities to grow industry knowledge and network with other entrepreneurs
Upcoming Events
Advance Your Creative Business with Artist Career Training 🎨
Artist Career Training is a six-week program designed to help artists grow their creative business and expand their professional network. Participants gain access to valuable resources including professional skills development, mentoring opportunities, and funding support to help take their careers to the next level.
Grow your business with classes and workshops designed with you in mind.
View all upcoming classesAdditional Tools:
- Small Business Resources Directory - A growing database of local, state, federal, and community resources. Explore »
- Small Business Needs Assessment - Austin's Economic Development partnered with small business participants to provide insights on learning preferences, business growth needs, and pandemic impacts. Read the full report.