Central Florida SCORE is a part of the national, non-profit organization with more than 11,000 members which began in 1964. A group of working and retired business executives, SCORE volunteers donate time assisting people in the U.S. in starting-up new businesses or providing business counseling for existing businesses.
Small Business Development Center is part of a statewide partnership of higher education, economic development organizations, chambers and other sponsors dedicated to the economic prosperity of Florida. To schedule an appointment to meet with a counselor, please call (813) 905-5800.
Polk County Small Business Assistance Center provides professional and confidential consultation to start up business owners as well as existing businesses that want to grow but need help focusing on financing and marketing strategies. In addition to one-on-one consultation, SBAC staff conducts workshops held throughout the county. The SBAC is funded from the County's Occupational License fees. Click here to view an interview with SBAC Manager, Dawn Decaminada. To schedule an appointment, call (863) 534-5915.
Lakeland Council for Entrepreneur Development is a network group established in February 2010 to fuel the formation and development of high-skill, high-wage companies and innovative technologies in the Lakeland and central Florida area. LCED provides an atmosphere for mentoring, training, and accelerating innovative ideas, as well as helping start-up companies with capital formation in an effort to get the potential product to market.
Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency is the economic development arm of the City of Lakeland. The staff provide information about incentives and assistance for development.
Lakeland Economic Development Council is a private non-profit organization with more than 175 member companies. With staff dedicated to growing high-skill, high-wage jobs for the area, the LEDC is a resource for incentives, demographics and business relocation assistance.
Additional online resources
Comprehensive Business Plan Help:
Information on business start-ups, business planning, sales and marketing, cash flow projections, etc.
Finance and Taxes:
Includes information on the various types of taxes, tax forms and laws.
Human Resources/Training:
Helpful information on employment laws, legal requirements and workforce services.
Miscellaneous: