Welcome to the Center for Business & Innovation

Our entrepreneur portal contains over a dozen no-cost programs to help you plan & grow your business.

All the Resources You Need to Start & Grow Your Small Business Under One Roof

The Center for Business & Innovation (CB&I) is committed to business prosperity throughout Washington state. We provide no-cost services and resources for entrepreneurs, business owners, and managers to help them achieve greater success.

CB&I's Upcoming Trainings & Events

the center for business & innovation

Many of our trainings are now available online!

We know entrepreneurs are very busy so we offer many of our training series online on demand. Explore resources to learn more!

17
Jan

Sustainability, Business and Entrepreneurship Series: Defying Corporate Food Industry Standards

21
Jan

ScaleUp Business Training: Winter 2025 Cohort 1

21
Jan

Entrenamiento Empresarial de ScaleUp

22
Jan

ScaleUp Business Training: Winter 2025 Cohort 2

View Full Event Calendar >

Explore All CB&I Program & Resources

Business Question of the Week:

Can I Transfer My LLC or Corporation From One State to Another? How Domestication Works

Yes, you can transfer your LLC or corporation from one state to another through a process called "domestication." Here’s a breakdown:

What is Domestication?

Domestication is the process by which an LLC or corporation formed in one state (the "domestic state") changes its legal domicile to another state (the "new state"). The business ceases to exist in the original state and becomes a domestic entity in the new state while maintaining legal continuity.

Key Benefits of Domestication

  • Legal Continuity:
    Domestication allows the business to retain its original legal entity, including its EIN, business credit history, contracts, and legal obligations. Unlike dissolving and reforming, the business continues uninterrupted.
  • Seamless Transition:
    Domestication is designed to simplify the process of moving a business while preserving its structure and operational history.

Mutual State Agreement

Both states must permit domestication.

  • Some states do not allow this process, requiring alternative solutions like dissolving and reforming or foreign qualification.

Steps to Domesticate Your Business

  1. Confirm State Laws:
    Check if both your current state and the new state permit domestication.
  2. File Necessary Documents:
    • Submit a Certificate or Articles of Domestication in the new state.
    • File conversion documents with the domestic state to approve the transfer.
  3. Amend Internal Documents:
    Update your LLC operating agreement or corporate bylaws to align with the new state's laws.
  4. Transfer Licenses and Permits:
    Apply for new licenses in the new state and cancel or transfer old ones as needed.
  5. Update Tax Registrations:
    • Register for taxes in the new state.
    • Close tax accounts in the original state and notify the IRS of the new domicile.
  6. Notify Stakeholders:
    Inform clients, vendors, and other parties about the move.

Alternatives to Domestication

If either state does not allow domestication, you may need to:

  • Register as a Foreign Entity: Operate in the new state while keeping your registration in the original state.
  • Dissolve and Re-register: Close the business in the original state and form a new entity in the new state.

Give the Gift of Opportunity

Learn more about how you can help support small businesses during Entrepreneur Month!