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SFCED is your one-stop destination for essential business tools and information.
We help businesses launch, locate and expand in the SF Bay Area by connecting you to available resources and partnerships, enhancing the city's economic vitality and quality of life for all.
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As an initiative of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce Foundation, SFCED collaborates with industry groups and the Mayor’s Office of Economic and Workforce Development to promote business growth in this innovative city.
Local Business Support
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SF First Year Free: Qualifying new businesses can waive initial registration, permit and license fees.
- City Resources & Compliance: Navigate local taxes, compliance, incentives, and city programs tailored for local entrepreneurs.
- Talent & Training: Leverage city-funded workforce recruitment and training programs.
State Business Support
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California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC): A competitive income tax credit for businesses planning to create full-time jobs or make major capital investments.
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GO-Biz Consultation: Receive no-cost, confidential help from the Governor’s Office for site selection and streamlining state permits.
International Business Support:
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Foreign Trade Zone #3 (FTZ #3): Managed by the Port of SF, this program allows custom duties on imported goods to defer, reduce, or eliminate customs.
- Global Market Entry: Get confidential help finding office or industrial space within San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods.
- Strategic Partnerships: Connect with the SF Consular Corps (70+ countries) and global trade organizations.
| | San Francisco isn't just a city—it's where big ideas come to life. This is where entrepreneurs, established companies and international businesses converge to fuel progress and create what's next. When you choose San Francisco, you're joining a community of future-focused companies that are shaping tomorrow's economy. |
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Leadership San Francisco
Intro San Francisco
Experience an exclusive six-week program offering new residents, professionals, and locals a 'backstage pass' to cultivate networks while exploring our city's business landscape, cultural heritage, and local government.
2026 Sessions:
Winter Program
Spring Program
Fall Program
Learn more here.
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Workforce
The Job Forum:
A volunteer network of hiring managers and career professionals offering free guidance to job seekers in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Upcoming Events:
Careers in Hospitality, Restaurants & Tourism
Career in Data Analytics and Data Management
Learn more here.
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Economic Development
2026 CityTrip DC
March 15-18
Delegates will network with business leaders and policymakers, strengthening San Francisco's voice nationally while advocating on critical issues impacting our city and the Bay Area.
Learn more here.
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Signature Event
San Francisco Small Business Week
May 4-8
The 21st Annual SFSBW is a vibrant celebration that shines a spotlight on the heartbeat of our city - its small businesses. With a variety of exciting events, workshops, and networking opportunities, it's a chance for local entrepreneurs to connect, learn and thrive.
Learn more here.
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Signature Event
International Week
August 2026
Anchored by our signature International Networking Night on Monday evening - San Francisco International Week 2026 will create meaningful connections and sustainable partnerships between San Francisco and global markets while amplifying our city's diverse international communities through authentic cultural celebrations.
Interested? Contact
ahuang@sfchamber.com
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Signature Event
International Networking Night
What an incredible SOLD OUT evening celebrating San Francisco's global spirit! Leaders from cultural business associations, consulates, small businesses, community advocates and curious locals, connected across borders and industries.
Learn more here.
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Leadership San Francisco
40 LSF Soiree
Congratulations to LSF on 40 years of shaping the city's leaders! Over 400 alumni, partners, and friends reunited over incredible food and entertainment.
Learn more here.
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Workforce
USF Honors Cohort Presentation
USF Honors students impressed the business community by pitching capstone projects to revitalize the Lower Fillmore/Western Addition Neighborhood.
Learn more here.
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International Development
CityTrip Japan
Our delegation to Japan explored urban innovation and international partnership across Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Highlights included World Expo 2025 Osaka, where the delegation engaged with government and business leaders on sustainability and mobility, plus urban design studies at Azabudai Hills and meetings with JETRO—fostering professional development and vital benchmarks for San Francisco's urban evolution.
Learn more here.
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International Development
SFCED Hosts Belgium Delegation
The SFCED hosted the Belgium delegation, lead by Princess Astrid, Archduchess of Austria-Este. First, at an economic power lunch at the Commonwealth Club with Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis and then at Yes SF HQ for a panel on Women in Entrepreneurship. It is clear the connections of our two regions go far beyond a love for chocolate!
Learn more here.
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International Development
Korea Standards Association (KSA) Delegation Visit
The SFCED hosted KSA and Korea Foundation for Cooperation of Large & Small Business, Rural Affairs to benchmark global best practices in corporate collaboration and San Francisco's tech ecosystem. We facilitated site tours at MBC BioLabs and Epic Cleantech.
Learn more here.
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Workforce
Building the Future Workforce: Bridging Cleantech and the AI Era
The future of our economy lies at the intersection of sustainability and technology. Recent Unite SF sessions at Yes SF HQ emphasized a key insight for our local students: thriving in both climate action and AI advancement requires an adaptable, diverse, and skilled workforce—one that demands creative problem-solving and critical thinking.
Learn more here.
| | The San Francisco Center for Economic Development (SFCED) is here to help businesses launch and expand in the SF Bay Area by connecting you to the available resources and partnerships. | | |
Learn more about SF Chamber Foundation:
To explore opportunities in international development, contact ahuang@sfchamber.com
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Interested in working together?
Contact: info@sfcentered.org for more information
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