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Start or Expand Your Business in our Booming West Valley

Entrepreneur. Risk Taker. Expert. Girl Boss. Whatever word best defines YOU, we want to serve as a resource in your business journey. If you are at the beginning, wondering where to get started, we have put together some valuable resources to consider when starting or expanding your business in the West Valley.

It’s no surprise you may be considering the West Valley for your future business, as our region is one of the fastest growing areas in the country. Collectively home to about 2 million people – which is expected to grow at twice the national rate over the next 5 years – the West Valley offers a diverse mix of business, recreation, and amenities that will expand over the coming years. If you are considering the area for your next business venture, we would value the ability to plug you in, share resources, and ensure you have the support you need to open your doors.

Getting Started

We value the opportunity to help in your business journey and have compiled the following information to help you know what you do and don’t need in the State of Arizona and Peoria when starting a business. 

Consult with a CPA, Attorney or Experienced Bookkeeper

  • We highly recommend consulting with your CPA, attorney, or a bookkeeper experienced with licensing and the necessary filing of documents with the state and city. However, this is not a complicated process and can be accomplished online.
  • If you are seeking a qualified CPA, attorney, or experienced bookkeeper to assist you with starting a business, we encourage you to search our Member Directory page or contact our office at 623-979-3601 for our member recommendations.

Determine Your Business Structure

Decide the legal structure of your business, which will determine your legal and tax implications.
  • Sole Proprietorship - A sole proprietorship is an unincorporated business owned by a single individual who is entitled to all profits and responsible for all debts and obligations, making it the simplest form of business structure.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) - A limited liability company (LLC) is a type of business structure that protects its owners from personal risk while offering the flexibility of a small business and the tax advantages of a partnership.
  • Corporation - Corporations are formed by individuals who file articles of incorporation in the state where they intend to operate. Corporations can enter into contracts, loan and borrow money, sue and be sued, hire employees, own assets, and pay taxes. Importantly, corporations offer their owners limited liability protection. Their shareholders profit through dividends and stock appreciation, but they are not personally liable for the company's legal or financial liabilities.
  • Partnership - A partnership is a formal business arrangement between two or more individuals who agree to manage and operate a business together while sharing its profits and liabilities.

Choose a Business Name

 Make sure your name is unique and not already in use. Search the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) entity database for availability and if forming an LLC or Corporation, reserve your name.

Register Your Business

LLCs and Corporations must file formation documents with the Arizona Corporate Commission which can be done at https://ecorp.azcc.gov/. Sole proprietors and partnerships should register a trade name with the Arizona Secretary of State if using a DBA.

Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

An EIN is required for hiring employees, opening a business bank account, or forming an LLC or corporation.

Apply for an EIN

Register For State Taxes

Depending on your business structure, you may need to apply for a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license at www.aztaxes.gov. If you have employees, you will also need to register for unemployment insurance and withholding tax. It is especially important here to consult with a lawyer and CPA to ensure you understand your tax classifications so that you do not run the risk of surprise tax bills from your city. As the State of Arizona allows cities to set their own tax structure, what is applicable in one city may not be the same in another!

Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

Arizona does not issue a general business license at the state level, but there are several state-regulated licenses and permits you may need:

  • Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) License - Required for most businesses that sell products or taxable services in Arizona. You must apply with the Arizona Department of Revenue (ADOR) at https://aztaxes.gov.
  • Local Business License - Most cities and towns in Arizona require a local business license, even if you're home-based. Peoria, for instance, requires a business license for anyone operating within city limits.
  • Industry-Specific Licenses & Permits -Depending on your business type, you might need specific state or local permits. Here are some common examples:
Licensing List of Websites

Join the Peoria Chamber of Commerce!

We are a valuable resource for your business, giving you the promotion, connections, and resources you need to become a familiar name in our growing West Valley community. We care deeply about our small business community and would be honored to support you throughout your business journey!

Join the Chamber

Chamber Partners on Launch & Learn Events

Starting in September of 2025, the Peoria Chamber of Commerce – in partnership with the City of Peoria, Peoria Public Library and SCORE – is spearheading efforts to support future and current businesses through a new Launch & Learn series. 

Hosted monthly at the Peoria Public Library, each 90-minute session includes:

  • A 30-minute expert-led presentation
  • A 15-minute interactive Q&A
  • A 45-minute networking session to connect with local entrepreneurs, mentors, and resource partners

Be sure to check out our Events Calendar for future dates and topics being covered.

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