Resources
County
Oklahoma County
The Oklahoma City Black Chamber of Commerce is collective group of progressive minded businesses, organizations, and citizens who invest their time, energy, and financial resources for the benefit of unified community development. Our goal is to market the greater Oklahoma City metro and attract new growth, while providing sound advocacy for minority businesses and individuals. Though we have a strong focus on improving the wealth and development of Northeast, Oklahoma City, we are not bound by geographical locations and are proud to service all of the metro and even several communities outside of Oklahoma County lines. We currently have partners stretching from Spencer, Norman, Yukon, and Stillwater.
We are partnership driven, dedicated to the needs community, and ground zero for improving the perception and opportunities for the black community in Oklahoma City. We assist existing and expanding businesses, help guide aspiring entrepreneurs, and work to build economic development for new employment and investment growth. We accomplish this by continuing to build on a foundation of community involvement and business relations. Oklahoma City Black Chamber’s ultimate goal is to have true partners who share our passion for improving the structure of the community. Providing opportunities to network and invest in knowledge continues to be a staple of the benefits we provide. This includes training in the areas of small business and entrepreneurship, financial literacy, community engagement, and legislative advocacy.
Phone: (405) 595-4874
Email: admin@okcblackchamber.com
Website
Tulsa County
The Greenwood Chamber of Commerce is comprised of three entities.
Greenwood Chamber of Commerce
A 1938 quote on the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce from early Board chair, E.W. Clarke, had this to say: “If the Chamber means anything at all, it must stand out as a clearing house for civic betterment. On June 1, 1938, the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce began providing a new playing field for enhancing business and economics in North Tulsa.
Greenwood Centre LTD
- History on the Tulsa Race Massacre
- Restore Black Wall Street Campaign 2021
- Membership
The Greenwood Women’s Business Center supports diverse women entrepreneurs in their journey across all business life cycles – from start-up to maturity – with information, tools, and resources designed to escalate their visions. We provide technical assistance, shared services, and counseling services (in person and virtually) to help women business owners navigate the myriad of opportunities available that enable their firms to grow, hire employees, and be leaders in their communities. This center is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business administration.
State
From aerospace to agribusiness and financial services to startups, the Oklahoma Department of Commerce helps businesses grow. Operating a business can be challenging, but Oklahoma has removed the barriers and streamlined the process to make it easier for companies to develop and grow. With living costs as much as 40% lower than the national average and world-class workforce development programs, they’re making it easier to plug into the Oklahoma business ecosystem to gain access to the people, programs, and tools that will support real-time business decisions.
- Incentives Programs that promote job growth and help improve your company’s bottom line by injecting cash back into your business as you expand and create new jobs in Oklahoma.
- Regional Development Specialists (RDS) Available to meet with individuals and business owners in their region to understand their needs and connect you with services, tools, solutions, and programs to help your company thrive.
- Customized Employee Training Training for Industry Program helps create the workforce you need to be successful. Services include job analysis, training needs assessment, pre-employment training, pre-production training, post-production training, and more at little or no cost to you.
- Oklahoma Now A monthly newsletter for business leaders and site selection and commercial real estate professionals).
- Women-owned Business Certifications The Oklahoma Department of Commerce certifies woman-owned businesses in Oklahoma. Some companies and state agencies use certifications to ensure diversity in their selection of contractors, vendors, and suppliers.
- Minority-owned Business Information The Oklahoma Department of Commerce serves as the initial point of contact for aspiring and established minority entrepreneurs. The agency provides information on starting a business, organizations that assist small businesses, and other common questions.
- Business Incubators The Oklahoma Department of Commerce certifies Incubators. The Oklahoma Small Business Incubators Incentives Act enables the tenants of a certified incubator facility to be exempt from state tax liability on income earned as a result of occupancy for up to 10 years. When they qualify, the exemption remains in effect after the tenant is no longer an incubator occupant.
- Reports Annual report on Fortune 500 companies located and headquartered in Oklahoma. Detailed information on Oklahoma’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) and comparisons with the region and nation. Detailed information on Oklahoma’s top exports and trade partners and sources of foreign direct investment. Comprehensive list of Oklahoma’s Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts. Economic impact study, Military Impact Study, of Oklahoma’s five military installations.
- Census Demographics
- Maps + Geographic Data Locate incentives area boundaries, find available buildings and sites and research community development project funding across the state.
900 N. Stiles Avenue,
Oklahoma City, OK 73104
Phone: (405) 815-6552
Website
The Business Filing Department processes corporation, limited partnership, limited liability company, limited liability partnership, certificate of partnership fictitious name for general partnership, trade name, and trademark registration filings. Such filings include new registrations, amendments, mergers, dissolutions and withdrawals for both domestic and foreign entities.
Having employees comes with certain responsibilities with both the State and Federal government. Following the rules protects you, your business, and your employees. You may want to consult with your attorney or tax advisor about these and other responsibilities that may apply to you.
Out-of-state Registration Requirements
Before operating in Oklahoma, businesses that are organized (domiciled) in other states under formal legal structures (corporations, LLCs, and others) are normally required to register as a “foreign entity” with Oklahoma’s Secretary of State.
- Business Entity Search
- Name Availability Search
- Notary
- Trademark
- Annual Certificates
- Business Entity Registration
- Online Filing
Oklahoma Works’ vision is to align resources, education, training and job opportunities to build Oklahoma’s workforce. Oklahoma Works’ strategic priorities are coordinated by the Governor’s Council for Workforce and Economic Development.
The Oklahoma Office of Workforce Development (OOWD) houses Oklahoma Works, the State’s workforce development initiative, and administers the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title I-financially assisted programs/activities under the U.S. Department of Labor. OOWD/Oklahoma Works is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
- Incentives
- Incumbent Worker Training
- Work-Based Learning Program (Internships and Apprenticeships)
- OK Job Match
- Annual Reports
- Labor Market Briefings
- Statewide Reports
- Quarterly Workforce Observations
Retail
State laws require that retail businesses in Oklahoma must charge and collect taxes on their sales to state customers and remit these taxes to the Oklahoma Tax Commission (OTC). A retail business may sell items that require only a general sales tax permit from OTC. Or it may sell other items, such as cigarettes, beer and motor fuels that will require special sales tax permits and additional requirements from the agency.
Owners of businesses located in Oklahoma that make online retail sales to customers in the state are also required to obtain a sales tax permit and set up an account to collect and remit sales taxes.
For retailers to sell meat, eggs or dairy products, additional permits or licenses are required from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODA).
A wholesaler in Oklahoma is generally defined as an owner or business that buys and receives merchandise or inventory at a business location in the state which is then sold and directly delivered from purchase orders to retail businesses in the state that then resell the items to the final state customers and consumers.
Photography Services
A photography business is not required to have a state license to provide photographer services. However, to sell prints, photos or other alternate items the owner or business will be required to obtain a sales tax permit and establish an account through the Oklahoma Tax Commission (OTC) to collect and remit the tax.
Wholesale
In Oklahoma, general wholesalers are also issued a general sales tax permit by the Oklahoma Tax Commission (OTC).
Building and General Construction Contractors
In Oklahoma, general contractors are not required to have state licenses to perform their construction services. This includes commercial or residential buildings, roads, bridges and highways, installation of residential and municipal utilities, industrial and oil field installations and other various projects. Likewise, state licenses are not required of subcontractors who perform general construction services on projects for general contractors. Such services, normally, include areas such as: site clearing and leveling, concrete stemming, framing, carpentry, drywall, painting, guttering, sodding, fencing, etc. Also, state licenses are not required for small general contractors or subcontractors who do commercial or residential renovation, remodeling and repair construction projects.
Out-of-state Contractors
An out-of-state contractor who obtains a construction contract in Oklahoma is required to complete a special “Non-Resident Contractor” registration with the Oklahoma Tax Commission (OTC) prior to starting a project. For contracts in excess of $100,000, a bond for 10% of the amount is required to be posted (or the deposit of a cash equivalent amount). Information regarding the special registration and possible bonding is provided in OTC’s informational document, “Packet N.” The packet can be obtained off OTC’s website.
Fitness & Health, Personal Trainer and Massage Businesses
In Oklahoma, state licenses are not required of owners or businesses that provide fitness & health, or personal training services. However, if the businesses sell retail support items (i.e., workout accessories, health food supplements, etc.), a general sales tax permit and account through the Oklahoma Tax Commission (OTC) will be required. Also, as advised previously, to construct or install a bathing facility (hot tub, swirl bath, etc.), the plans for these types of businesses will have to be approved by the Oklahoma State Department of Health(OSDH).
Massage Therapists are required to have a license through the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology.
Income Tax and Payroll Benefit Withholdings
Businesses with employees must set up an account with the Oklahoma Tax Commission for withholding and remitting state income taxes from the wages and salaries paid to employees.
For retailers to sell meat, eggs or dairy products, additional permits or licenses are required from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODA).
Auctioneers
An auctioneer is not required to have a state license to provide auctioning services to sell general, personal and tangible property items for an owner.
However, to sell agriculture livestock at an auction, the owner of the auction is required to obtain a license from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODA).
Also, to sell real estate by auction, a licensed real estate broker will be required.
Restaurants and Bars
To sell prepared foods and non-alcohol beverages, a restaurant in Oklahoma is required to obtain a food establishment license, plus food handlers’ permits (for certain employees) from its assigned county health department office. The assigned county health department offices in the state can be obtained from the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH).
Selling Beer, Wine or Mixed Drinks
To sell beer, wine or mixed alcoholic drinks to customers, the restaurant owner will need to obtain applicable liquor licenses from the Alcohol Beverage Laws Enforcement Commission (ABLE). The ABLE application checklist and process also requires that the restaurant owner should first obtain a license from its applicable city or county government, as well as a general sales tax permit from OTC, plus OTC’s special permit/license for such sales.
Public Swimming Pools and Bathing Facilities Contractors
To build swimming pools and other bathing facilities (examples: hot tubs, whirl bathtubs, etc.) for public use (in federal, state and local government-owned and operated buildings, in hotels, fitness, health and massage businesses, etc.), the construction plans must, first, be submitted to and approved by the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH).
Following OSHD’s approval, the construction plans would need to meet the local city and county requirements. Plans for private home construction of such pools and such facilities do not require approval by OSDH.
Consumer Credit Services
Businesses that extend credit to their consumer customers by allowing them to make installment payments on their purchases (examples: furniture and rent-to-own stores, fitness centers and weight loss programs) or that provide other consumer credit services (examples: home mortgage processors, pawnshops, as well as businesses who sell precious gems or buy used gold and silver jewelry) will need to obtain a license from the Oklahoma Department of Consumer Credit (OKDOCC).
Electrical, Plumbing and Heating & Air Conditioning Services Contractors
In Oklahoma, owners of these types of construction services are required to obtain specific licenses from the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (CIB).
Roofing Contractors
Although roofing contractors are not required to obtain licenses, they must register with the CIB and show that they meet certain criteria which include carrying specified amounts of liability insurance and bonding.
Public Swimming Pools and Bathing Facilities Contractors
To build swimming pools and other bathing facilities (examples: hot tubs, whirl bathtubs, etc.) for public use (in federal, state and local government-owned and operated buildings, in hotels, fitness, health and massage businesses, etc.), the construction plans must, first, be submitted to and approved by the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH).
Following OSHD’s approval, the construction plans would need to meet the local city and county requirements. Plans for private home construction of such pools and such facilities do not require approval by OSDH.
Transporting
Transporting businesses in Oklahoma, particularly those involved with trucking and passenger carriers for hire services, are required to obtain various licenses through the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC). If the operations involve travel solely within the state, then, only Intra-state licensing and issuance of a USDOT number through OCC will be required.
If travel of a transporting business is across state lines, a registration (which will include the issuance of a USDOT number) will be required from the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Massage Businesses
Massage Therapists are required to have a license through the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology.
Unemployment Taxes
Employers must also set up an account and withhold and remit state unemployment taxes to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission.
At the Federal level, business owners with employees are required to obtain the necessary forms and set up accounts with the Internal Revenue Service to withhold and pay federal income and Social Security taxes.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Employers are required to cover their employees in Oklahoma with Workman’s Compensation Insurance, through an insurance agent. Contact your insurance agent to learn more.
Selling Beer, Wine or Mixed Drinks
To sell beer, wine or mixed alcoholic drinks to customers, the restaurant owner will need to obtain applicable liquor licenses from the Alcohol Beverage Laws Enforcement Commission (ABLE). The ABLE application checklist and process also requires that the restaurant owner should first obtain a license from its applicable city or county government, as well as a general sales tax permit from OTC, plus OTC’s special permit/license for such sales.
Federal
The mission of the Department is to create the conditions for economic growth and opportunity. The Department of Commerce promotes job creation and economic growth by ensuring fair trade, providing the data necessary to support commerce and constitutional democracy, and fostering innovation by setting standards and conducting foundational research and development. Through their bureaus and 46,608 employees (as of January 31, 2018) located in all 50 states, every U.S. territory, and more than 86 countries, they provide U.S.-based companies and entrepreneurs invaluable tools through programs such as the Decennial Census, the National Weather Service, NOAA Fisheries, and the Foreign Commercial Service. Among many other functions, the Department oversees ocean and coastal navigation, helps negotiate bilateral trade agreements, and enforces laws that ensure a level playing field for American businesses and workers.
National Organizations
The National Black Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to economically empowering and sustaining African-American communities through entrepreneurship and capitalistic activity within the US and via interaction with the African Diaspora.
- To increase business development and growth via procurement, capital access and international trade.
- To provide entities to fund and guide our programs.
- Educate and train the masses on Black business development and our purpose to benefit society.
- Provide technical support to affiliated chapters.
The National Minority Supplier Development Council advances business opportunities for certified minority business enterprises and connects them to corporate members. Minority group members are United States citizens who are Asian-Indian, Asian-Pacific, Black, Hispanic and Native American. Ownership by minority individuals means the business is at least 51% owned by such individuals or, in the case of a publicly owned business, at least 51% of the stock is owned by one or more such individuals (i.e. the management and daily operations are controlled by those minority group members.)
The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) provides committed, visionary leadership and advocacy in the realization of economic empowerment. Through the creation of resources and initiatives, we support African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises.
Advocacy
The USBC fights for legislation that promotes small business growth, particularly policies that address the challenges of Black business owners. We understand the importance of maintaining a bipartisan approach to advocacy, and hence, collaborate with policymakers from all political affiliations to advocate for policies that best serve the interest of the Black community.
Access to Capital
Capital access remains the most important factor limiting the establishment, expansion and growth of Black-owned businesses. The USBC works with financial institutions, particularly Black-owned institutions, to create avenues by which Black businesses can gain greater access to credit, capital and other financial instruments.
Contracting
At the USBC, our goal is to level the playing field by helping members gain access to business opportunities in the private and public sectors. We accomplish this by educating members on contract opportunities, helping them increase their capacity to vie for large scale contracts, and offering resources and information that enhance Black owners’ ability to compete.
Entrepreneur Training
The USBC is committed to helping Black business leaders achieve stellar performance and growth through entrepreneur and business management training. Hence, we deliver quality educational opportunities and professional development resources that help our members manage and grow successful businesses.
Chamber Development
The growth and development of Black chambers of commerce is a core focus of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. As such, we leverage our role as a national organization, provide technical assistance and leadership training to member chambers, assist with the establishment of new Black chambers, and facilitate the sharing of best practices and industry data among our members. To do this, we utilize a variety of mechanisms including, training, web-based tools, peer networking, coaching, and information products.
SBA Lenders
200 E. Main St.,
Oklahoma City, OK 73069
Phone: (405) 321-7170
100 N. Broadway Ave.,
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Phone: (405) 207-1086
One Williams Center,
Tulsa, OK 74172
Phone: (918) 588-6000
102 W. Second Ave.,
Owasso, OK 74055
Phone: (918) 272-5301
100 S. Riverfront Dr.,
Jenks, OK 74037
Phone: (918) 392-2500
310 E. Graham Ave.,
Pryor, OK 74361
Phone: (918) 825- 2121
6000 S. Western Ave.,
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
Phone: (405) 636-4500
2017 W. Third,
Elk City 73644
Phone: (580) 225-2265
200 E. Main St.,
Oklahoma City, OK 73069
Phone: (405) 321-7170
1741 Tiburon Dr.
Wilmington, NC 28412
Phone: (910) 790-5867
501 NW Grand Blvd.,
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Phone: (405) 767-7000
7136 S. Yale, Ste. 100,
Tulsa, OK 74136
Phone: (918) 488-0788
10727 E. 51st St.,
Tulsa, OK 74146
Phone: (918) 664-6100
4815 S. Harvard, Ste. 100,
Tulsa, OK 74135
Phone: (918) 712-9292
One E. First St.,
Edmond, OK 73034
Phone: (405) 359-2637
302 Chickasha Ave.,
Chickasha, OK 73018
Phone: (405) 224-2200
1601 N.W. Expressway, Ste. 100,
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Phone: (405) 486-5700
4812 E. 81st St.,
Tulsa, OK 74137
Phone: (918) 495-1700
Business Incubators in Oklahoma
621 N. Robinson Ave., Ste. 550
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Phone: (405) 737-2676
www. acrongrowthcompanies.com
Types of Clients Served: Aerospace and defense
Services Provided: Financial planning, business development and capital.
421 N. Main, P.O. Box 1757,
Guymon, OK 73942
Phone: (580) 338-4278
www.artistincubation.com
Types of Clients Served: Artists
Services Provided: Art gallery and center
1415 N. Seventh, P.O. Box 190,
Fort Cobb, OK 73038
Phone: (405) 643-3275
www.mycktc.com
Types of Clients Served: Manufacturing, service, industrial, and office space, mixed-use, light industrial
Services Provided: OBAN coordinator on site
101 N. E.K. Gaylord Blvd, Suite 1,
OKC, OK 73102
Phone: (405) 974-3366
www.lxstudio.com/business-incubator
Types of Clients Served: Mixed-use
Services Provided: Consulting on product/service strategy and development, coaching on essential business capabilities
2800 N. Gore Blvd,
Lawton, OK 73505
Phone: (580) 581-5446
www.cameron.edu/cetes
Types of Clients Served: Startup companies primarily in technology-related areas
Services Provided: Consulting , networking, internships, faculty advising, partnerships
201 N. Settle Dr.,
Drumright, OK 74030
Phone: (918) 352-4516
www.centraltech.edu
Types of Clients Served: Manufacturing, mixed-use
Services Provided: Call for more information
701 Richard James Ave.,
Stroud, OK 74079
Phone: (918) 352-4517
www.centraltech.edu
Types of Clients Served: Manufacturing, engineering, management services, valve repairs
Services Provided: Call for more information
7576 N. Highway 81,
Duncan, OK 73533
Phone: (580) 255-9675
Types of Clients Served: Advanced manufacturing
Services Provided: Milestone management, mentoring, business coaching
125 W. Third St.,
Tulsa, OK 74103
Phone: (918) 560-0265
Types of Clients Served: Advanced manufacturing
Services Provided: Milestone management, mentoring, business coaching