Opening a Business in Madison

From its rose growing days in the early 1900's to today, Madison has been a fertile ground for the growth and development of hundreds of successful businesses. Our residents appreciate the sense of community and service provided in our downtown.

Madison does not have specific business licensing requirements. Retail Food Establishments, however, must work through the Madison Health Department, click here for more information.

We encourage you to visit the Business.NJ.Gov page for information on business licenses, etc. It is a great resource for both new business owners and those in need of support. 

Our competitive advantages include:

  • A supportive community including residents, local business owners, and the governing body.
  • Excellent demographic - Morris County is one of the wealthiest counties in the United States.  
  • Prime access to NYC via NJ Transit's Midtown Direct line and just 16 miles to Newark Liberty International Airport. 
  • A strong local "Shop Madison" campaign.
  • An effective and active Chamber of Commerce that supports local businesses. Interested in joining? Contact Executive Director Karen Giambra at info@madisonnjchamber.org.
  • Major corporations in Madison include - AbbVie, Atlantic Health, Anywhere, and Merck Animal Health.
  • Madison has excellent national and statewide brands and businesses, including Whole Foods Market, Madison Honda, Staples, Stop N Shop, and Gary's Wine & Marketplace.
  • Home to many longtime local gems, including - Madison PhotoPlus, Suburban Shoe Shop, Alfred's Sport Shop, Bar Method, Studio Allegro, Gerlach's Jewelers, and so much more.
    • Shanghai Jazz (voted a top 100 Jazz Club in the world by Downbeat Magazine)
    • Salvatore Minardi Salon (voted #1 in New Jersey by Elle Magazine)
    • McCool's Ice Cream (voted best Milk Shake in New Jersey 4 years in a row)

To learn more about the permit process, please click here. 

Please contact us if you have any questions or need any additional information:

Lisa Ellis

Director of Business Development 

office: 973-245-3493

cell: 201-400-2349 (talk or text)

business@rosenet.org