Starting a Business
Virtual Entrepreneur Center
The Florida High Tech Corridor Council (FHTCC) has an easy-to-use website designed for entrepreneurs with links to local information and services that support new, relocating or expanding businesses. As you navigate through this website, you can narrow topics to find more detailed information including: Developing a business plan, setting up a business, product/service development, tax issues, challenges of growth, relocation assistance, business expansion strategies and human resources management.
This Guide to Doing Business in Sarasota County presents key data to existing and new businesses operating or interested in operating in Sarasota County. The information enables companies to quickly assess how major factors related to the conduct of business might affect their profitability.
Regional Business Resource Center of Florida Gulf Coast
This resource is a collaborative project of area business organizations, educational institutions, and public entities committed to supporting the growth and development of new and existing businesses and fostering entrepreneurship.
SCORE
SCORE is a national, non-profit organization, which offers business advice through free counseling/mentoring and workshops for local businesses. It is a group of working and retired business executives who donate time assisting people in starting up new businesses or providing business counseling for existing businesses.
Free workshops are offered throughout the year on topics such as Starting Your Business, Building Your Business Plan, Financing Your Business, and Marketing Your Business.
Small Business Development Center
State College of Florida offers many services through their Small Business Development Center, which is designed for those wanting to start a business and for existing businesses.
For those thinking of starting a business, counseling services and workshops are offered. Some of the workshop topics include financing, writing a business plan, licensing requirements, etc. For businesses already established and wanting to expand, the SBDC offers funding resources, counseling, marketing suggestions, etc.
Virtual Incubator
The Economic Development Foundation has created a virtual incubator for the communities of Southwest Florida, including Sarasota County. Visit this website to learn about becoming a business owner, finding a mentor and leading your company.
Internal Revenue Service Resources
This site is dedicated to the self-employed individual and includes a plethora of information from starting a business, operating the business, the necessary forms to file, an advocacy service, and much more.
Florida Tax Guide
Major taxes collected in Florida include sales and use tax, intangible tax and corporate income taxes. Information regarding these and additional taxes can be located at There is no personal income tax in Florida.
