Startup Assistance
Step 1: Watch Starting a Business—A Six-Part Video Series
Thinking about starting your own business? As any seasoned entrepreneur will tell you, starting a new business is not always easy. From testing the market to accessing capital, there are many roadblocks you may encounter along the way. The Florida SBDC’s Starting a Business Video Series is a collection of six short videos designed to provide you with a fundamental overview of what it takes to start a business. Watch these videos first before attending an in-person training and meeting with a consultant.
- Select the Idea (9 minutes)
- Test the Market (11 minutes)
- Access Capital (11 minutes)
- Write a Business Plan (5 minutes)
- Understand Legal Requirements (30 minutes)
- Putting it All Together (7 minutes)
Step 2: Find a workshop in your area
The next step is to attend a Florida SBDC workshop in your area. Our in-person, start-up workshops are offered at low or no cost on a regular basis across the state. These start-up workshops will provide you the necessary tools and insight to start your business on solid ground. From how to determine feasibility and legal structure, to the type of licenses you will need, these classes cover the essentials to successful business ownership. We now offer this workshop online. Click on the link below to register for our online course.
Step 3: Complete the online Request for Consulting
After you’ve attended a workshop, it’s time to complete an electronic Request for Consulting (eRFC). This form will start your relationship with the Florida SBDC Network where you will find the most up-to-date resources for your business information needs.
As part of the eRFC, you will be asked to complete a concept plan, which gives us a short summary of your business idea. Your concept plan should describe the idea, the market, as well as key actions and activities of the business. The concept plan will help our consultants understand the basics of your business to better assist you. For more information about the concept plan, download our helpful Concept Plan Guide.
Please note that we cannot schedule requests for individual assistance without this form. Once the form is submitted, you will be contacted by the Florida SBDC that serves your area to set up a consulting session.
