Orlando’s vibrant economy offers a wealth of resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners aiming to start or expand their ventures. Understanding and leveraging these opportunities can be pivotal for success.
City of Orlando Business Assistance Programs
The City of Orlando provides several initiatives to support local businesses:
- Business Assistance Program (BAP): This matching grant program helps offset development fees, including sewer and transportation impact fees, building permit fees, and public right-of-way infrastructure costs. Eligible businesses can receive up to $20,000 in matching funds. Learn more.
- Small Business Façade, Site Improvement, and Adaptive Reuse Program: Offers matching grants up to $50,000 for façade, site, and building improvements to underutilized properties within the city. Details here.
Support Organizations and Incubators
Several organizations in Orlando are dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship:
- National Entrepreneur Center (NEC): A collaborative hub offering free one-on-one business coaching, low-cost seminars, and networking events. Located at 3201 E. Colonial Drive, Suite A-20. Contact NEC.
- UCF Business Incubation Program: Provides business development and operational support to early-stage, innovative businesses throughout Central Florida. Since 1999, it has supported hundreds of companies, collectively generating over $400 million in sales. More information.
Recent Developments
In April 2026, the Orlando City Council adopted the Small and Local Business Enterprise Program, giving small and local businesses an advantage when bidding on city contracts. Florida-based companies with fewer than 100 employees can register now, with local businesses within city limits receiving even higher priority. Read more.
By tapping into these resources and programs, Orlando’s entrepreneurs can navigate the challenges of business development and contribute to the city’s dynamic economic landscape.