Carlsbad launches office hours for small businesses

The City of Carlsbad is proud to launch a new pilot as part of the Small Business Liaison Program aimed at improving access to services and making it easier for small business owners to receive the in-person support they need. Whether you’re launching a new venture, managing an existing business, or navigating city processes for the first time, Small Business Liaison Office Hours provide a direct connection to knowledgeable staff who can assist with common challenges and questions. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the City of Carlsbad to strengthen its small business ecosystem. The city understands that starting and operating a business can be complex, and that timely, personalized guidance can sometimes make all the difference. By offering dedicated time for one-on-one appointments, Office Hours provide a valuable touchpoint for entrepreneurs seeking to start, grow, or retain their businesses in Carlsbad.
The program was developed in response to feedback from entrepreneurs and small business owners who told staff that they have trouble understanding processes or don’t know where to go to find resources. At the same time, they are often too busy to seek out that type of information on their own. Office Hours give a flexible opportunity for them to quickly get guidance, connectivity, and access to resources. In short, Small Business Liaison Office Hours can simplify the process of getting help with city-related questions and services.

KEY TOPICS COVERED
During these in-person sessions, businesses can receive guidance or connection to the appropriate city staff member on a wide range of topics, including:
• Navigating city processes
• Business license questions
• Understanding permitting requirements
• Clarification on zoning
• Determining correct business classifications and usage
• Guidance on home-based vs. commercial operations
• Assistance with signage regulations
• Support with commercial code enforcement-related issues
• Access to incentives, grants, or other financial-related support
• Connection to external organizations or
networking events
• General navigation of city departments
or contacts

HOW IT WORKS
Carlsbad small businesses can book one-on-one, 30-minute appointments during Office Hours, or drop in to discuss issues they are facing and get tailored guidance on where to find access to topics such as permitting, zoning, licensing, and guidance on how to access financial or external resources. The goal is to have businesses leave that meeting with a better understanding of processes, connections to other city departments, and information on other external resources.
Based on the initial project information, the Small Business Liaison will provide additional information or connect to the appropriate resource in the city of Carlsbad or an external contact where appropriate and applicable.
Please be advised that if you have a specific development-related inquiry, you can schedule an appointment with the development services team Monday-Friday. Appointments are thirty minutes in length.

HOW TO ACCESS SMALL BUSINESS OFFICE HOURS
The program is being piloted at Carlsbad libraries over the next several months. After the pilot, staff will make a determination on how to move forward in the long term. During the pilot, Office Hours are held every Tuesday between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., with 30-minute in person appointments available at local Carlsbad libraries. The program launched on July 8 at Dove Library and will move to the Cole Library from August 5 through August 26. In September, the City will evaluate program performance and determine which locations and hours will be available for September.
Appointments can be booked online at carlsbadca.gov/business/digital-resource-hub/business-office-hours.
Businesses are encouraged to fill out a brief intake form ahead of time at carlsbadca.gov/SBL to help staff prepare personalized guidance and follow-up resources.
Can’t attend in person? No problem— support is also available by phone, email, or virtual meeting. Reach out anytime at [email protected].
Whether you’re launching a new venture or working through an issue with your current business, Small Business Office Hours offer a direct line for the information and support you need.