Entrepreneurship

A Collaborative Environment

Ever felt like opening a business could be easier? You’re right. Nonprofits and organizations throughout Sarasota-Manatee FL offer programs and initiatives to help startups and small businesses move to the next stage. The Business Network International (BNI) Southwest Florida exposes new businesses to a network of more than 250,000 in 76 countries, while in Englewood & Venice Business and Professional Women (BPW) works toward equity for women by providing educational opportunities, networking and advocacy. The North Port Area Chamber also offers a Lunch and Learn series for entrepreneurs as part of their Small Business Assistance Program.

Equipped for Business Success

Opportunities to expand your knowledge of business are plentiful here, with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration at Keiser University and Everglades University. State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota also offers associate degrees and certificate programs in entrepreneurship, business administration and related fields of study.

The Tools that Pay for the Whole Party

There’s something about the Suncoast when it comes to starting a business. Maybe it’s the vast number of incubators, accelerators and coworking spaces that have led to cities like Bradenton and Sarasota becoming some of the top small cities to start a small business in the U.S. If there was ever a place to bring your idea of business ownership to life, shouldn’t it be in paradise with access to a regional talent pool of close to two million?

Resources, like CareerSource Suncoast’s THRIVE program and our highly decorated SCORE chapter, plus, incentives, such as the State Small Business Credit Initiative, put entrepreneurs in a powerful position throughout Sarasota and Manatee. And once your company moves beyond the startup phase, several initiatives in Florida are here to help retain and grow businesses, including GrowFL and Florida SBDC at USF.