Start a Business

North Florida is a region that inspires a lot of ideas and a lot of opportunities for new business. It is also a region that supports new business in a number of game-changing ways, beginning with lower costs: Six North Florida counties rank in the list of top 10 Florida counties offering the state’s lowest cost of living.

Physical, digital and knowledge infrastructure

North Florida expands entrepreneurial opportunity through logistical, digital and knowledge networks. Uncongested roads and convenient air connections allow ease of access; a comprehensive broadband network that provides gigabit fiber optic connections, while knowledge and intellectual resources include two R1 universities. Whether the opportunity is local or global, North Florida offers an infrastructure, and an ecosystem, that delivers.

Specialized startup and development support

North Florida’s entrepreneurial ecosystem provides deeper support:

  • At the University of Florida, UF Innovates offers a variety of programs and services, including two business incubators.

  • Small Business Development Center provides locations throughout the region, including FAMU (Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University),  SDBC at University of North Florida as well as satellite business consulting centers in Nassau, Putnam, Clay and Suwanee Counties, which also serve surrounding counties. Click here to visit to the statewide SBDC network office website.  Whether the need is startup assistance or consultation for growth, the centers can provide a variety of tools and programs to help.

Dedicated local and regional support

From conception through expansion, your enterprise enjoys collaborative and cohesive support at the local, regional and national level.

Ready to start your research? The Florida Department of State offers a simple three-step guide to forming your new business.