Starting Your Business
Congratulations on the decision to start your business in Sarasota County. There are many tool available to assist you. If at any time you have a question, please reach out to the Economic Development Corporation for assistance.
Starting A Business Checklist
Here is a list to get you on the path to starting your business in Sarasota County!
Do your business plan
Connect with experts
Register with the State of Florida
Obtain your Employer Identification Number
Register with Sarasota County
Register with the City your business is in (if applicable)
Complete the Florida Business Tax Application
Register your non-real estate property
Contact your municipality about zoning, water/sewer connections, inspections and necessary permits
Business planning
You’ve got a great business concept and you’re ready to go. But wait, do you have a formal business plan put together? A business plan is a road map to success. Without a business plan most banks and landlords will not work with you. Your business plan is a vital tool to move forward. Taking the time to speak with an expert and developing a good business plan will pay off. Luckily there are experts who are here to help.
- The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at University of South Florida assists existing and emerging businesses in Sarasota county, through no-cost confidential business consulting, information, and low-cost training. The consultants expertise focuses on areas that are vital to owning and operating a successful business, including business and strategic plan development, access to capital and loan packaging assistance, financial analysis and assessment, accounting systems and financial literacy, feasibility analysis and start-up assistance. Here is the link to request a consultation: https://sbdctampabay.com/schedule-consultant/
- CareerSource CEO
- SCORE
Connect with experts
Another vital element to starting your business is surrounding yourself with experts. Whether it’s accounting, business law or a good real estate broker. There is no replacement for an expert to get you started on the right path. Sarasota County is full of well-equipped Chambers and business associations who will gladly connect you to the experts you need.
Five things to know about the Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Florida Companies to Watch
- A unique way to recognize and honor second-stage companies that demonstrate high performance in the marketplace with innovative strategies and processes, making them “worth watching.”
- An awards program that companies from across the state and all industries may participate in. Selection is based on steady growth in employee counts and revenue as well as strength in leadership, corporate culture, community support and philanthropy, innovation in management or technology, or other factors that contribute to an outstanding organization.
Tampa Bay Regional Chapter
- An exclusive network of second-stage business owners who share the same entrepreneurial spirit, tenacity, and challenges as you do.
- Each chapter is led by CEO’s who are in tune with what is important to you.
- Gain new business knowledge, resources and best practices from advisors and members.
- Ability to participate in programs and events across the state.
- Discover new perspectives and proven techniques that support business growth.
- Access to opportunities to improve personal and professional leadership skills.
- Discounted registration for select GrowFL events.
Ready to Start?
Learn more about what we can do for you.
Apply Now
Complete the online interest form and a team member will contact you to identify next steps, determine eligibility and assist with grant applications.
Invest in Sarasota County
The EDC of Sarasota County diversifies our local economy and helps create jobs for Floridians. Investing in the EDC empowers us to grow our economy and attract more business to our region.
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