How to Start a Business in Downtown Eureka Springs

Before signing a lease or purchasing a building, take time to:

• Research your market

• Visit similar businesses

• Estimate startup costs

• Develop a simple business plan

• Identify funding sources

Helpful Resources

• Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC)

• Arkansas Secretary of State

• SCORE

Downtown Eureka Springs offers a variety of historic commercial spaces.

Before signing a lease or purchasing property:

• Understand zoning requirements

• Verify the intended use is allowed

• Determine building condition and needed improvements

• Understand parking and accessibility considerations

• Discuss any planned renovations

Need Space?

Contact local commercial realtors or reach out to Main Street Eureka Springs for available downtown properties and contacts.

Depending on your business structure, you may need to:

• Register with the Arkansas Secretary of State

• Obtain an EIN from the IRS

• Register for state tax purposes

• Open a business bank account

Before opening, connect with the appropriate City departments.

• Building Department If you plan to renovate, repair, or change the use of a building.

• Historic District Commission Downtown properties are located within the Historic District and may require review before exterior changes. This includes adding a new sign. The process is very easy. Call HDC staff, 479-253-9703 for questions or more information.

• Fire Safety Review The building department will schedule this with you.

• Planning and Zoning You can contact them at 479-253-9703. For questions about permitted uses and development requirements.

Requirements vary by business type.

You may need:

• Business licenses are through the City Clerk.

• Health permits

• Food service permits

• Alcohol permits

• Sign permits

• Building permits

• City Advertising and Promotion Tax Permit for Food & Lodging

Always confirm requirements before opening. You can find City Forms here.

This may include:

• Painting and repairs

• Signage

• Accessibility improvements

• Merchandising and displays

• Technology setup

• Utilities and internet service

  • Black Hills Energy - Gas

  • SWEPCO - Electric

  • Water Service - New Service and Changes should be made at the Public Works Office, 3174 E Van Buren, 7:00am - noon, 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Cash, check, credit and debit cards are all accepted as payment methods. 

  • Cox Internet

  • AT&T - Phone service

You can find licensed contractors here.

Main Street Eureka Springs can also offer free interior design consultants.

If applicable:

• Register as an employer

• Set up payroll

• Create policies and procedures

• Train employees

One of the best things you can do is build relationships before opening.

• Join Village Coffee
  Every Monday, 9:00–10:30 AM

• Attend Community Resource Connections Last Tuesday of every month, 6:00–7:30 PM

• Get Involved Downtown
  Volunteer, attend events, and introduce yourself to neighboring businesses.

Consider:

• Social media announcements

• Press releases

• Ribbon cutting with the Chamber

• Local media outreach

  • Eureka Independent

  • Eureka Springs Times Echo

  • KUAF public radio

• Partnerships with neighboring businesses