This article is sponsored by the Arlington Texas Today Business Directory. If you own a small business in Arlington, claim your free listing today by clicking here.Starting a business is not easy.
But that’s probably an understatement. And something you already knew.
Whether you’re a fantastic home cook whose been told your food is way better than local restaurants, or a hairdresser dreaming of opening your very own salon — the thought of starting your own business may have crossed your mind a time or two.
And why not? There’s a number of reasons why owning a business can be awesome. Escape cubicle nation. Be your own boss. Live your passion.
Yet, many well-meaning souls never get their idea off the ground. A main reason is they don’t know where to start and get overwhelmed.
You don’t have to be driven crazy when trying to be your own boss. With all the assistance at your disposal, starting a business in Arlington shouldn’t mean losing your mind.
If the thought of going from employee to employer sounds interesting to you, here are a number of resources in Arlington that can play a huge role in your success.
Arlington Chamber of Commerce: No one in Arlington’s business scene should miss out on the fantastically powerful Arlington Chamber of Commerce. It’s ONLY (wink, wink) been an advocate for building a strong Arlington business community since 1945. The great thing about the chamber is they approach helping businesses from a number of angles — relationship building, education, public policy and marketing… just to name a few. When you think about starting a business in Arlington, you’ve gotta think about taking advantage of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce.
505 E. Border Street; (817) 275-2613
Downtown Arlington Management Corporation: Downtown Arlington’s revitalization hasn’t gone unnoticed. With several businesses setting up shop downtown, this may be an area to consider opening your business. The Downtown Arlington Management Corporation is a great resource that can help anyone interested in starting a business downtown. They are well-connected and in-the-know in what’s planned for the area. From buying space to connecting with the people who can make your life easier, these are good people to chat with.
201 E. Abram Street Suite 130; (817) 303-2800
Tarrant Small Business Development Center: Need help thinking through your initial idea, creating a business plan, or legal advice? Since 1989, The Tarrant Small Business Development Center has provided consulting, training and technical assistance to Tarrant County business owners. With a satellite office in Arlington, you can call to schedule an in-person appointment for advice, support and training for free or a minimal cost.
202 E. Border Street, Suite 132; (817) 871-6028
City of Arlington Economic Development: Maybe you want to hear why you should start your business in Arlington from the horse’s mouth. Reaching out to the City of Arlington Economic Development department is a great place to start. These guys can give you a full rundown of economic incentives to opening your business in Arlington. You’ll also want to get info on permitting and regulations that could derail your efforts if you don’t plan in advance.
101 West Abram Street; (817) 459-6155
Experience Arlington: The guys at Experience Arlington are the experts on getting tourists to make their way to our fine city. And when they are here, Experience Arlington is a resource for visitors to find things to do and places to stay. If you’re starting a business and want to be on a visitor’s radar when they land in Arlington, pick up the phone and give these folks a holler.
1905 E. Randol Mill Road; (800) 342-4305; (817) 459-6155