Florida State Small Business Services and Resources

How to tap a wealth of helpful state and regional-level solutions
By Matthew Solan, Writer Solan Freelance Writing If you are looking to start or expand a business in Florida, or just need help solving a problem specific to this state or region, there are a wide range of resources — both government and private — available to help.

While many nationally focused resources offer helpful solutions, some issues are better addressed at the state or local level. Answers to licensing, zoning, sales tax, incorporation, economic development issues and a wide range of other matters often reside at the state level. Ironically, however, finding the right resources closer to home can often be even more difficult, as solutions live in many different places.

Cover your bases by seeking solutions in these places:

1. State government agencies, such as the commerce department, economic development office, secretary of state's office or other business-related state agencies.
2. State and local offices of federal agency programs, such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) office in your area.
3. Small business assistance programs offered through local universities and community colleges that are backed by state and federal resources. These include Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and SCORE offices.
4. Private, non-profit and special-interest industry and business organizations that provide a range of services, networking opportunities and even funding options for small businesses.

 

Begin with the secretary of state's office

Florida's department of state offers information on business registration, taxes, how to select a location, industry reports and more.
Try: You can access the proper forms for filing a business at its Division of Corporations.

Tap into the Small Business Development Center for free consulting

The state of Florida's SBDC network pairs experienced business analysts with small business owners to assist with counseling, training and advice in all facets of management.
Try: A list of statewide SBDC sites can be found at Floridasbdc.com.

Read what small businesses need to know

Florida's statewide business magazine Florida Trend publishes several special publications devoted to small businesses: Florida Small Business Start-Up Guide, Business Florida, Florida Small Business and Doing Business in Florida. Each offers valuable reference guides and insight on launching a new business or expanding an existing one.
Try: You can view excerpts and order print copies at BusinessFlorida.com and Floridasmallbusiness.com.

Consult with the Small Business Administration for financial assistance

Florida's has SBA district offices in Jacksonville and Miami. They offer loan and assistance programs, outreach efforts and initiatives to aid small businesses.
Try: SBA's Florida page offers a list of financial and other SBA services.

Check out chambers of commerce for local support

If you've chosen a business site, or need more background on an area, the local chamber of commerce can provide firsthand insight into the community.
Try: Find a list of statewide chambers at Flchamber.com

Take advantage of Florida's tax structure

Florida has one of the nation's most business-friendly tax codes, ranking fourth on State Business Tax Climate Index. The state's department of revenue summarizes Florida's various tax laws and provides detailed brochures on a variety of tax-related subjects.
Try: Go to Myflorida.com to learn more about Florida's business taxes.

Research your potential workforce

Your business won't succeed without quality, trained workers.
Try: With the Florida Research and Economic Database (FRED) you can analyze the state's labor market and search for employees. You can report new hires as required by state law at Floridajobs.org.

• Many types of businesses require state, city or county licenses and permits. State offices listed above will spell out any specific requirements for your industry.
• Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are an often-overlooked but terrific place to obtain free or low-cost advice and information, including training seminars and technology resources that are nearby.
• Locally-based SBDC consultants can advise you individually on how to write a business plan, market your products and services, find financial resources and other valuable information.
• The regional SBA office can plug you into loan and assistance programs, seminars and other initiatives to aid small businesses.
• Linking up with a local SCORE counselor is a great way to learn from an experienced individual about state-specific solutions.