Starting small businesses will be easier in Fresno

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Fresno is cutting the red tape to make it easier for small businesses to start up. It's part of a White House initiative called, "Start up in a Day."

Carlos Camargo is new to the pizza business. He's just 11 days in -- still fresh and still learning, "This was an opportunity," he added, "I found out the owner was selling and I had to act fast."

He kept the name and the location, Dominion's Pizza in North East Fresno. Just like any other business, he had to start at city hall, "I went to get my business license, filed for my fictitious business name and right down the street, is the IRS," Camargo said.

It's a lot of red tape but it's starting to look more like a red carpet. A year ago, the city simplified the process and started working toward a one-stop shop.

Mike Sanchez in the Development Resource Management Department said, "We have essentially reduced the red tape to get the developers through our system and out in a timely manner."

On top of that, the city has teamed up with the White House on an initiative to take the process online. It's called, "Start up in a Day."

Mayor Ashley Swearengin said, "Everything will be located online, one, simple, easy location."

It all sounds good to Camargo. Even though, he's just getting started at Dominion's, he's already looking forward to his next business opportunity.

Camargo added, "Hopefully, it's a little more expedient."