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French-American Chamber of Commerce of       
San Francisco


PASSPORT TO

START A BUSINESS IN CALIFORNIA

 

A guide for entrepreneurs who wants to

start or develop a Business in Northern California

Introduction

Starting Up your Business

Choose a Location

Define your Type of Business

10 Legal Tips for Entrepreneurs

Register your Business

Financing Aspects

Credit Financing

Marketing

Visas- Immigration / Permanent

Employees

Legal Aspects

Import and Export

Contact List

The strength of the Franco-American business relationship increases each day as connections between enterprises and organizations continually expand and diversify.

There are
-          more than 2,423 French companies in the US, providing
-          more than 500 000 direct jobs and
-          generating an estimated $160 billion turnover.
-          more than 21,000 companies export in the United States—1 exporter for every 5.

The Main French acquisitions in the US in 2003 took place in high-tech (Business Objects/Crystal Decisions Inc.; Alcatel/TiMetra), marketing services (Taylor Nelson Sofres/NFO WorldGroup Inc.), and the chemicals industry (Rhône Capital LLC/Alcoa Specialty Chemicals). California stands out as the state hosting the most French-owned U.S. affiliates subsidiaries with the most employment.

Because U.S and European systems are completely different in terms of statutory regulations, financing, marketing and employment, running a business in U.S requires continual vigilance and an active response to challenges--both internal and external. Success results from a variety of factors including careful planning, solid business management techniques, and creative problem solving.

All these factors depend on knowledge and skills that can be learned and developed. In some cases it is better to consult professionals for greater expertise. Free and low-cost assistance is available from a number of organizations and agencies.

This document provides a wealth of information and resources for business entrepreneurs, owners, and managers who have arrived in California from France and intend to start a business. The contents of this guide are the fundamental elements for any French entrepreneur to know while making a first business step in California.

The overwhelming strength of this document lies in its links to further information that provides numerous, up-to-date resources, helpful reminders, and contact with legal professionals, established firms, and appropriate public departments that will help you to complete each section appropriately.

 

The information on this site is not intended to constitute legal advice or to substitute for obtaining legal advice from an attorney licensed in your state. This web site is not intended to be advertising under applicable laws and ethical rules.  These materials have been prepared by the French American Chamber of Commerce with the expertise of our staff and members for informational purposes only and are not legal advice.  Anyone viewing the information should not act upon it without seeking professional counsel. The information contained in this website is provided only as general information which may or may not reflect the most current legal developments.