HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA ESPAÑOL
Hello Petaluma Business Community,
We want to take a moment to say thank you. Your hard work, creativity, and care help make Petaluma the unique and exciting place we all love. We know that running a business can be challenging, especially during uncertain times, and we want you to know we’re here for you.
We hope the information in this email is both helpful and inspiring. From one-on-one support to community events and local programs, our goal is to provide tools that help you thrive. Please don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here to help!
Sincerely,
The City of Petaluma Economic Development and Community Development Teams
Looking for Business Support? Nancy and Jonathon Are Here for You!
Did you know the City of Petaluma offers customized, 1:1 support for your business? Whether you need a new location, have questions about the permitting process, or just want to chat about your business, Nancy Sands and Jonathon Luong are here to help.
Nancy Sands works in the Economic Development Department and is a concierge for our local businesses, providing helpful introductions and helping you access all the resources you need to set your course for success. Jonathan Luong in our Community Development Department can help you navigate the City’s permitting process, connecting you with our teams in Building, Planning, Public Works, and Fire Prevention.
To get help or talk through your goals, please email: [email protected].
Small Business Resources
Here’s a business tip we love sharing: Sonoma County has many resources to help you start and grow a business.
For example, the Sonoma County Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers free classes and one-to-one advising for businesses at every stage of development. Hoocha Kombucha and Petaluma Pie Company are two of many Petaluma companies who have worked with the SBDC. Need to create a business plan, find funding, or market through social media? The SBDC can assist every step of the way. More info at https://www.sonomasbdc.org/.
The County of Sonoma’s Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) provides tools for learning about industry trends, finding new customers, and understanding the market in Sonoma County. The EDC also hosts events for economic insights and sponsors initiatives, like Restaurant Week, that market industries county-wide. Learn more at sonomaedc.org.
The Petaluma Visitor Program—aka Visit Petaluma–is a powerful resource for a wide range of businesses – restaurants, eateries, recreation hubs, and more. Leverage the wide reach of Visit Petaluma, and its County partner, Sonoma County Tourism, to showcase your business on social media, radio, visitor apps, and more. Visit Petaluma also hosts marketing meetings that offer tips and opportunities to connect with other Petaluma businesses. Learn ways to drive visitors to your business by contacting Ann Hutchinson, Marketing and Communications Manager, at [email protected].
Knowledge is Power – 0.25% Sales Tax Increase Effective April 1, 2025
In November 2024, voters approved Sonoma County Measure I, a 0.25% sales tax increase to improve the health and well-being of Sonoma County children. As of today, April 1, 2025, Petaluma sales tax increased from 10.00% to 10.25%.
What You Can Do: Be sure to update your point-of-sale systems, online platforms, and any posted pricing materials to reflect the new tax rate. Staying up to date helps avoid confusion for customers and ensures compliance.
The Good News: This small increase supports vital services for children and families in our community—an investment in a healthier, stronger future for all. By helping spread awareness and adjusting accordingly, your business continues to be a vital part of what makes Petaluma thrive.
Join the Cool Business Launch Party – Tuesday, April 8
Are you interested in planet-friendly business practices? If so, join other business leaders at the Cool Business Collective Launch Party on April 8th. The Cool Business Collective is a new initiative spearheaded by Cool Petaluma, a nonprofit (and City partner) that inspires local climate action through community building. Cool Business members will gather regularly to share ideas and best practices as they work together to build a healthy, thriving, and planet-friendly city. See you there!
When: Tuesday, April 8, 5:30-7:30pm
Where: Crooked Goat Brewery, 110 Howard Street, Petaluma
CLICK HERE to learn more.
Shop Petaluma is a Great Way to Support Local (and Promote Your Business!)
Shop Petaluma is our local marketing program that incorporates a digital gift card, website, and Instagram account. The program started in 2020 and has generated thousands of dollars in sales for more than 100 participating merchants.
The Shop Petaluma gift card works the same way a Mastercard does in transactions. It’s easy to integrate into your point of sale system and a great way to get the word out about your offerings. As a bonus, participating businesses get marketing exposure through shoppetaluma.com and our @shoppetaluma Instagram page, as well!
CLICK HERE to register as a Shop Petaluma merchant today. Or CLICK HERE to purchase a Shop Petaluma gift card.
Spring and Summer Mean Festivals (and Fun) in Petaluma!
Festival season is here in Petaluma! With exciting events happening all over town, it’s the perfect time to harness the fun and energy to boost your business. Get creative – decorate your storefront, offer a special deal, or take part in the celebrations. It’s also a great chance to bring your team together and build stronger connections.
Be on the lookout for these fun events:
- Butter & Egg Days Parade – Saturday, April 19
- Spring Antique Fair – Sunday, April 27
- Salute to American Graffiti – May 15–17
- Art & Garden Festival – July 13
- Plus, enjoy our farmers markets all season long!
Visit www.visitpetaluma.com for more details on these and other great events.
Save the Date: May 15 – Business & Community Showcase
The Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce & the City will host a Business & Community Showcase on May 15, from 4-7 p.m., at the Lucchesi Community Center. Petaluma is celebrated for its incredible support of local businesses, and this event is your chance to meet and connect with business owners face-to-face. Participating businesses represent the wide range of Petaluma industries – from home repair and health to financial services and our favorite food/beverage companies. All are welcome!
Last Chance to Sponsor a Booth – contact [email protected].
We’re Shaping the Future of Downtown Parking
The City of Petaluma is currently developing a Downtown Area Parking Management Plan to produce a clear understanding of parking conditions and identify strategies to optimize parking and curb utilization in support of a thriving downtown. We have been performing extensive data collection including six parking counts, surveys of downtown employees and visitors, and a focus group with businesses and property managers.
We are currently exploring next steps, including community outreach and potential strategies to improve downtown parking/curb access and accessibility.
To learn more, and sign up to receive project updates, please visit: cityofpetaluma.org/downtownparking.
Join Our Restaurant Workgroup
The City Economic Development team is launching a peer-driven workgroup to help restaurant owners find opportunities and solutions despite challenging market conditions. Right now, we’re gauging interest and getting ideas about desired outcomes and the best format. Contact [email protected] if you’d like to join or you’ve got expertise to share. Stay tuned for details as we develop the program.
Please Keep Sidewalks Clear for Accessibility!
A friendly reminder—please help keep sidewalks and other pathways clear and accessible for everyone. Ensuring walkways are free from obstacles like A-frames, merchandise, and tables/chairs allows pedestrians, including those with mobility challenges, to navigate safely and comfortably.
A clear sidewalk benefits everyone—your customers, neighbors, and the entire community. Thank you for doing your part to keep Petaluma welcoming and accessible! Questions? Please contact Amy Neuerburg, City Code Enforcement Supervisor, at [email protected]).