Orlando Small Business Resources
Starting and running a small business requires resources. There are businesses, government groups, and nonprofits ready to help you.
We’ve compiled a list of Orlando small business resources and created tools and guides to help you operate a successful business in Florida.
Starting a business? Get access to small business resources and support when you start an LLC with Northwest ($29 + State Fees).
Local Resources for Small Business in Orlando
Using local resources can make a big difference. Here are some of the best local resources for small businesses in Orlando.
To get more Florida business resources, visit our Florida Small Business Resources guide.
The National Entrepreneur Center
Overview
The National Entrepreneur Center is a facility that houses and manages the services of 13 different entrepreneurial assistance organizations. This collaboration allows the NEC to produce seminars and do 1-on-1 business counselling alongside numerous networking events. Partnered programs include several chambers of commerce, minority-oriented outreach organizations, and SCORE counseling.
Restrictions
Workshops range in cost from $35-$50.
Contact Information
Office Address:
Orlando Fashion Square
3201 E. Colonial Drive
Orlando, FL 32803
Phone Number: 407-420-4848
Social Media:
TRUiC Business Resources
Expansive Orlando
Overview
Expansive Orlando is a downtown Orlando Coworking space that allows business owners and entrepreneurs to work in close proximity to one another for very low cost compared to traditional renting space. Expansive Orlando also offers a bi-monthly “Lunch and Learn” program, where entrepreneurs and businesses can share knowledge.
Restrictions
Expansive Orlando has a membership fee.
Contact Information
Office Address:
Angelbit Building
37 N. Orange Ave.
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone Number: 321-396-5691
Email: info@colabusa.com
Social Media:
SCORE Orlando
Overview
SCORE (Service Corp of Retired Executives) is a leading, nation-wide organization that has assisted millions of entrepreneurs over its 50+ years of operation. SCORE is a resource partner of the SBA that offers access to a network of experienced business leaders who donate time to mentor entrepreneurs and small business owners. They also host free or inexpensive workshops online and at 300 local chapters around the United States. Mentoring can be conducted either in person or remotely and is always free and confidential, no matter how often you take advantage of this service.
Prospera
Overview
Prospera is a nonprofit organization specialized in providing bilingual assistance to Hispanic entrepreneurs trying to start or expand their business. This organization empowers Hispanic entrepreneurs through mentoring services, financial planning, sales and marketing plans, and other resources to prepare entrepreneurs to start a business. Prospera does not charge for many of their services, and other services are low cost.
Restrictions
Entrepreneurs must be Hispanic to join this organization.
Contact Information
Office Address:
3201 East Colonial Dr.
Suite A20
Orlando, FL 32803
Phone Number: 888-776-7737
Email: admin@prosperausa.org
Social Media:
SBDC at the University of Central Florida Orlando
Overview
The greatest strength of the SBDC is their free, confidential, 1-on-1 business mentoring for anyone who seeks it. Sometimes in order to be considered for mentoring from one of their professional business advisors, you may have to attend a class/workshop or at least present your business plan. SBDC's are located all throughout the state and you should use the SBDC closest to your location if possible, but you can often transfer to a different location if they do not fit your needs.
Contact Information
Office Address:
3201 East Colonial Drive
Suite A20
Orlando, FL 32803
Social Media:
UCF Business Incubation Program
Overview
The University of Central Florida has a Pre-Incubation program that features business mentors and seminars for teaching entrepreneurs how to create a sustainable business. The Incubation program focuses on growing companies, and grants access to attorneys and mentors that can provide specific strategies for intellectual property.
Restrictions
Entrepreneurs must demonstrate that their business can grow to the point of hiring and managing employees. Entrepreneurs must also participate in a 3 ½ week, $400 course.
Contact Information
Office Address:
3259 Progress Dr.
Orlando, FL 32826
Phone Number: 407-635-9880
Social Media: