Launch • Locate • Grow
Explore Salem: Your Gateway to Opportunity
The City of Salem Economic Development team is here to help your businesses thrive. From ideation to expansion, we'll connect you with the people you need to find success here. Our Economic Development team can support you with ideation, business plan review, site selection, permits, and direction to other resources.
Discover the advantages of doing business in Salem. Contact our team today to start your journey in a flourishing city where business and community win!
How to Start a Business in Salem
In our low-cost, pro-business environment, you'll find tremendous support to start your enterprise. Our team can help guide you through the process and connect you with opportunities that give your business a great start. Browse our list of resources below to get started.
Entrepreneur Resources
How to Start a Business Checklist
Commissioner of Revenue
ENTREPRENEURIAL RESOURCES
- Roanoke Regional Small Business Development Center
- Roanoke Blacksburg Innovation Alliance (RBIA)
- Roanoke Blacksburg Technology Council (RBTC)
- Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program (RAMP)
- Advancement Foundation
- Permitting Resources: Virginia Health Department, Virginia ABC, Virginia Department of Social Services, Virginia Department of Labor and Industry, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality
Opportunities & Financing
Additional financing options outside private financing and financial institutions include development bonds, incentive grants, and small business programs through the Virginia Department of Business Assistance (VDBA) and the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority.
MISSION
Cultivate, preserve, and attract progressive and complimentary business investment comprising high-quality jobs while enriching the City of Salem’s low-cost pro-business environment and community’s quality of life.
VISION
To be an acclaimed Economic Development Practice with innovative and bold leadership fostering creative and collaborative initiatives exceeding global business climate expectations.
TARGET INDUSTRIES
Our strategic plan focuses on nurturing key sectors including manufacturing, health sciences, technology, and education. Explore our Strategic Plan for a detailed overview.