Florida Small Business - The Guide for Entrepreneurs and Emerging Companies

The Florida Small Business Resource Guide contains important contacts and outlines critical services available to support the goals and aims of entrepreneurs, whether looking to start or expand a business in the Sunshine State. From organizations like CareerSource Florida and Enterprise Florida to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and the state's network of Small Business Development Centers, our team is working to cultivate success for small businesses.

» Get Help for your Business

Questions to ask yourself before taking the plunge • The importance of being prepared • Assessing your skills and establishing goals

Choosing a business structure • Securing the necessary permits and licenses • Knowing the basics of labor laws • Understanding tax liability.

Assessing your financial position • Exploring financing sources • Applying for a loan• Exploring crowdsourcing

Disaster readiness and recovery • Basics of cybersecurity • Do you need property insurance? • Protecting your ideas

Hiring new personnel • Delegating responsibilities

Mastering advertising basics • Understanding media choices • Measuring results

Is it time to expand? • Adding staff • Expanding into new markets.

Your guide covering the documents and registrations required by the Florida Division of Corporations.

Your Help Is Needed.
Share Your Voice Regarding the Impacts of COVID-19

To beat coronavirus, herd immunity is the goal. Can Florida get there?
The rollout of coronavirus vaccines in Florida was heralded as a light at the end of the tunnel for a pandemic that has upended normalcy and killed 35,000 people in the Sunshine State alone. Now comes the question of just how long the tunnel is.
Florida restaurant employees receive surprise $1,000 bonus for work during pandemic
A hospitality group in Florida is thanking their employees for their work during the pandemic.
From roses to weed: Apopka flower grower moves into the medical marijuana business
Dewar Nurseries, which first opened in the early 1960s, is a partner in Sanctuary Medicinals in Florida, which runs the Apopka marijuana cultivation facility. It is one of the latest entries into the growing medical marijuana business in the state.
After years of cuts, CSX adding train staff
CSX Corp. reported lower first-quarter earnings and revenue April 20 as harsh winter weather affected the railroad’s rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Southwest Florida manufacturer, even after pandemic dip, sold in $4.3 billion deal
New Port Richey-based Welbilt Inc., a maker of foodservice equipment, has been sold. Illinois-based Middleby Corp., which also makes foodservice equipment, acquired the company in an all-stock deal.