Small Business Development Center at the Chamber

A statewide partnership of higher education, economic development organizations, chambers and other sponsors dedicated to the economic prosperity of Florida, the Florida Small Business Development Center Network (FSBDCN) is one of eight original national SBDC pilot programs. Funded in 1976 by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the program successfully links the state’s education system with community outreach to aid in the development and education of the state’s entrepreneurs and small business community.

The SBDC holds office hours on the second Tuesday of the month at the Chamber office. This service is free and confidential to any business. Appointments can be made by calling the SBDC at (813) 905-5800.

Services Include:

  • One-to-one confidential professional counseling
  • Ongoing educational entrepreneurial seminars and workshops
  • Steps necessary to starting a small business
  • Guidance with business plan research, preparation and review
  • Assistance with loan package development
  • Marketing, Branding and Sales planning consultation
  • Assistance with accounting and recordkeeping, software and how to use the information to help you grow
  • Internet Strategies: Web site, Search Engine Optimization, Search Engine and Email Marketing, Social Media
  • Government Contracting
  • State Certification as a Woman, Minority or Disabled Veteran Enterprise
  • Improving Customer Service
  • Great Ideas – Need a Patent, Trademark or Copyright?

The Small Business Development Center provides counseling related to all aspects of strengthening small business including entrepreneur development, expansion, financing, and management. Certified Business Analyst Bill McKown brings a strong background in marketing and is connected to a state-wide network of SBDCs, with analysts in multiple specialties.

“The partnership between the Chamber and the SBDC is a natural one,” says Terry Ottinger, VP Membership Development. “Ultimately, it is the goal of both organizations for businesses to grow and prosper in Lakeland and Polk County.”