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.
📰 Small Business News
- Commercial Incentives with Austin Energy's Small Business Bundle
About
Qualifying small businesses and nonprofits can earn higher rebates by bundling three or more energy efficiency improvements. Austin Energy’s Small Business Bundle can cover up to 100% of project costs when you select an HVAC tune-up, high-efficiency LED lighting and smart thermostats.
Customize Your Bundle
Add or substitute any of our other energy efficiency measures and get a 30% bonus over our standard commercial rebates. Austin Energy will provide a free, in-person energy assessment to help you choose the most impactful measures for your business.
Hassle-Free Application
Austin Energy thoroughly vets and trains all contractors that participate in the Small Business Bundle. They handle the paperwork and collect rebate payment directly from us, so you don’t have to wait for your rebate.
Financing Available
Affordable, short- and long-term loans are available to help eligible businesses and nonprofits invest in energy-saving upgrades. Learn more about financing options.
For additional questions and to learn more, visit the Austin Energy Small Business Bundle Incentives webpage.
- Permitting Changes for Mobile Food Vendors Effective July 1
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
- Special BizAid for Welcoming Week - September 16
Starting a business in Austin? BizAid Business Orientation introduces aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs to permitting, zoning, licensing and other requirements for starting and growing a business. Explore available City resources and get connected with tools that can help you move your business forward.
- Upcoming Classes & Workshops
View Full Schedule
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.
View all offerings and register for classes on our Eventbrite page.
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.
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
For Women, By Women: Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs
Get ready to rise, shine, and buzz with brilliance at this year's For Women, By Women: Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs breakfast.
On October 22, Austin women small business owners and entrepreneurs will gather for a morning rooted in energy, connection, and community-building. This year's theme, The Hive Effect, celebrates the magic that happens when women unite with a purpose and passion. Like a thriving bee hive, we're strongest when we collaborate, uplift, and share our gifts - and you'll feel that buzz the moment you walk in.
Spotlight Conversation
We're excited to feature a powerful one-on-one conversation with Pamela Benson Owens, President and CEO of Edge of Your Seat Consulting, Inc. Known for her honesty, humor, and heart, Pamela brings unfiltered insight and inspiration to every room she enters. Expect real talk. Real wisdom. Real Empowerment.
- Let's rise together!
- Let's build something powerful!
- Let's create The Hive Effect!
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.