Starting a Business in Janesville: What You Need to Know
Starting a business comes with a lot of decisions, from developing a business plan and finding financing to choosing the right space and understanding local requirements. Knowing where to start and who to ask can make the process easier to navigate. As Economic Development Director for the City of Janesville, Jimsi Kuborn works with businesses at many stages of growth. Here, she shares practical advice, common mistakes to avoid, and local resources that can help you take the next step.
Meet Jimsi Kuborn
Jimsi Kuborn serves as Economic Development Director for the City of
Janesville, working with businesses ranging from individual entrepreneurs to major employers considering investment in the city.
She helps connect businesses with resources related to startup planning,
commercial space, financing, development opportunities and other local
support.
How Jimsi Can Help Entrepreneurs
Whether you’re developing an idea, looking for commercial space,
exploring financing or trying to understand City requirements,
Jimsi can help identify resources and connect you with the right
people to move forward.
Economic Development Director
City of Janesville
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
- Business Startup Resources
- Commercial Real Estate
- Financing Resources
- Development Incentives
CONTACT JIMSI
Starting a Business in Janesville: Where Do You Begin?
Starting a business looks different depending on what you’re building. Jimsi’s biggest advice is to ask for help early rather than trying to navigate every decision on your own.
The City of Janesville’s Economic Development Office and Janesville Innovation Center (JIC) can be early points of contact for entrepreneurs who have an idea, need help finding space or simply aren’t sure who to talk to next.
Key Advice
Start With a Business Plan
A business plan becomes especially important when pursuing financing or leasing commercial space.
Build a Team of Advisors
An accountant, attorney, banker and other trusted advisors can help you make informed decisions as your business develops.
Get Help Finding Commercial Space
The City can provide initial information about available properties and connect entrepreneurs with additional resources, including help navigating zoning and building code questions.
Use Professional Representation
When considering a lease or purchasing a building, work with a commercial broker and/or real estate attorney.
Ask About Financing Options
Local bankers may be able to connect businesses with loans, SBA programs and other funding resources.
Check Requirements for Your Specific Business
Janesville does not require a general annual City business license, but newly leased or owned spaces require the appropriate occupancy certification. Some industries have additional licensing requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Moving forward without a business plan
- Signing a commercial lease without professional guidance
- Waiting too long to connect with an accountant, attorney or banker
- Assuming every business follows the same licensing and approval process
- Trying to figure everything out without asking for help
Your Next Steps
- Start with your idea or business plan. If you need help developing it, JIC offers access to local business-planning support.
- Talk through your specific needs. Consider financing, space, licensing, occupancy and the professional support your business may require.
- Connect with the right local resources. JIC and the City of Janesville Economic Development Office can help point you toward the appropriate people, programs and next steps.
Resources That Can Help
Janesville Innovation Center Business Resources
Local resources for entrepreneurs, including access to free business planning assistance.
Grow Janesville
City economic development resources, programs, funding and incentives, guidance navigating City codes and available property information.
Small Business Development Center
Free business planning and small business assistance.
Blackhawk Technical College
Entrepreneurial-related coursework and workforce development resources.
Commercial Brokers and Real Estate Attorneys
Professional guidance when leasing or purchasing commercial property.
Local Banks and SBA Programs
Business financing resources and potential SBA-backed lending options.
Planning a larger development or redevelopment project? Businesses can also ask the City of Janesville about programs such as Tax Increment Financing (TIF), downtown revolving loan programs and other development assistance that may apply.
From Jimsi
Jimsi’s message to entrepreneurs is that you do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out. From JIC to the City of Janesville Economic Development Office, there are resources that can serve as starting points, helping answer questions and clarify next steps.
Start Building Your Business at JIC
Starting a business comes with a lot of questions, from business planning and financing to finding the right space. Janesville Innovation Center provides entrepreneurs with a local starting point for accessing business resources, finding support and connecting with people who can help move their business forward.