How to start a business in Florida in 14 steps (2025 guide)

A flourishing talent pool, no individual state income tax, and strong trade and tourism industries make the Sunshine State an ideal location for all kinds of small businesses. If you’ve been waiting for the exciting moment when you can start your own Florida business, 2025 could be the year the dream becomes real. Whether you’re looking at construction, retail, food and beverage, or you’re not even sure yet, our comprehensive guide covers the entire process of how to start a business in Florida.

Why start a business in Florida in 2025? 

If you’re considering starting a business in Florida, you’ll be in good company. Florida is a hotbed for entrepreneurship, ranking as the #1 state for new business formation. With 3.3 million small businesses making up 99.8% of all businesses in the state, it's clear that the Sunshine State has a thriving small business ecosystem. Florida also has a fast-growing working-age population, providing a diverse and qualified talent pool for your business. Wondering how to launch your Florida venture? Our small business guide will walk you through the steps.

Here are the topics we’ll cover in this step-by-step guide:

• 14 steps to starting a business in Florida
• Step 1: Decide what type of industry is best for your business
• Step 2: Conduct industry research
• Step 3: Create a business plan
• Step 4: Choose your business entity: Types of business entities in Florida
• Step 5: Secure funds: Florida small business funding, loans, and grants
• Step 6: Choose your Florida business name and Florida DBA
• Step 7: Pick a business location in Florida
• Step 8: Find a Florida registered agent 
• Step 9: Get a Florida EIN and file your tax and employer identification documents 
• Step 10: Register as a small business in Florida 
• Step 11: Register for your business license and permits in Florida
• Step 12: Secure insurance for small business in Florida
• Step 13: Prepare to pay taxes on your business in Florida
• Step 14: Set up your business bank account 
• Additional resources to get your business started 
• Frequently asked questions

14 steps to starting a business in Florida

Every entrepreneurial dream starts with careful planning. Let’s take a step-by-step look at how you can get your Florida business up and running, with useful small business resources to guide you at every turn.

Step 1: Decide what type of industry is best for your business 

Your first step is to determine your niche. While tourism gets most of the press in Florida, the state is much more than just a vacation destination. 

• If you have expertise in the trades or an eye for development, you may consider a contracting business.
• If you’re in the hospitality industry, you’ll find plenty of opportunities in the state. 
• Accounting, legal services, marketing agencies, and other professional services are also in high demand to support the state's thriving businesses.

However, with such a diverse economy, nearly any lane is open to new businesses in Florida. Check out some more small business ideas for entrepreneurial inspiration.

Step 2: Conduct research in your business industry

Now, you’ll need to refine your business concept. If you’re looking at hospitality opportunities, for instance, where do you see market gaps in your desired area? It may be a concierge service in a beach town along 30A or Islamorada, or a food truck for an up-and-coming area where new nightspots are popping up. 

Once you’ve defined the niche, you can fill it, analyze area trends, and develop strategies accordingly. It’s also important to look at your competitors and conduct a competitive analysis to identify opportunities where your business can set itself apart.

Step 3: Create a business plan

The business plan is how you take your Florida small business from aspiration to real life. A business plan will be your guide to formulating everything from how you’ll secure funding to your business trajectory and goals. This living document can be updated as you continue to narrow down your market. 

Most business plans should include:

• Executive summary: Provide a brief overview of your business plan and its main points.
• Company description: Describe your mission, company background, and vision for the future.
• Market research and potential: Highlight industry trends, your market size, and your target audience.
• Competitive analysis: Analyze your competitors and explain why your business has a competitive edge.
• Products and services: Detail your products or services and describe the value they bring to customers.
• Marketing and sales: Outline your strategies for customer acquisition, engagement, and retention.
• Business financials: Showcase the expertise and experience of your management team.
• Management and leadership: Share an overview of your team's expertise and experience.
• Funding request: Specify the funding you need and how you’ll use it.
• Appendix: Include additional information, such as financial statements, research data, or legal documents.

To help you get started, use a free business plan template and see the Florida Department of State’s small business resources.

Step 4: Choose your business entity: Types of business entities in Florida

Before you officially set up shop, you’ll need to determine your business entity. These business structure types will define everything from how you register your business to what your liabilities are as an owner. Common structures in Florida include: 

Sole proprietorship

A business owned and operated by one person, with no legal distinction between the owner and the business.  

General partnership

A business owned by two or more people who share profits, losses, and management responsibilities.

Corporation 

A legal entity separate from its owners, with shareholders who have limited liability for the company's debts and obligations.

Limited liability company (LLC)

A hybrid business structure combining the limited liability of a corporation with the tax flexibility of a partnership. Learn more about LLCs.

Step 5: Secure funds: Florida small business funding, loans, and grants 

Do you want to start a small business in Florida but need the startup costs to buy equipment, lease or purchase a building, hire employees, pay for licenses and permits, and stock inventory? Here are a few ways you can access the capital you require: 

In addition, Florida business owners have several financing options available through the state government:

Florida Microfinance Guarantee Program

If your business has gross revenues of $1.5 million or less for the past two years and 25 or fewer employees, you may be able to apply for a loan backed by the Florida Microfinance Guarantee Program. The FMGP guarantees up to 50 percent of loans made by approved lenders in amounts between $50,000 and $250,000, potentially making it easier for your business to get a loan.

Florida Black Business Loan Program

The Florida Black Business Loan Program helps Black entrepreneurs obtain business loans on business enterprises that are at least 51% Black-owned. Contact the program’s administrators to determine whether your business might be eligible and how to apply.

Florida State Small Business Credit Initiative

The Florida SSBCI is another initiative designed to help small business owners access the capital necessary to expand their businesses. The SSBCI serves a wide variety of businesses, with the primary requirements being that the business must be Florida-based and have 500 employees or fewer.

Step 6: Choose your business name and register your Florida DBA

Select a name for your business that’s memorable, unique, and reflects your brand’s offerings. However, you’ll also need to file a DBA if you own a sole proprietorship or LLC under your legal name and want to do business under a different name. Short for “Doing Business As,” a DBA—also known as a fictitious name in Florida—allows you to operate under a more descriptive moniker. For instance, if your IT consulting business is John Doe Computing, LLC, but you want to sell microchips on the side, you could register a DBA as “John Doe’s Microchips.” 

Reserve your business name

The state of Florida doesn’t require name reservations. However, you will still have to register your corporation or entity. 

Filing a fictitious business name or DBA 

To register a fictitious name, start by ensuring your name is available via a Division of Corporations search.

Enter the exact name you’re registering and your mailing address, and pay a $50 Registration of Fictitious Name filing fee. While not required for filing, state law mandates a one-time advertisement of your Florida DBA or fictitious in a local newspaper within your county.

Step 7: Pick a business location in Florida

Whether you’re locating your legal IT firm out of your home or planning to lease a building to open a small boutique, you’ll want to ensure you’ve looked into local and county zoning ordinances, any city and police jurisdiction taxes, and customer or client accessibility. 

Check with your municipality for potential licensing and permit requirements, and research factors relevant to your business, such as parking, infrastructure, and area crime rates. If you’re considering running a business from your home to save money, make sure it’s permitted by your local laws and/or your lease if you rent.

Here are a few more locations to consider if you’ve decided to open a business in one of Florida’s major cities: 

Miami 

The bustling city has a strong international clientele and a growing customer base. Miami is home to big corporations, including major cruise lines, Ryder, and VITAS Healthcare. The area is also highly competitive in many industries, and properties go for top prices. 

Jacksonville 

Jacksonville has a robust transportation network, including major ports and airports. Compared to South Florida, Jacksonville also offers a lower cost of living and doing business. Logistics, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing are thriving sectors here. 

Orlando 

The “Theme Park Capital of the World,” Orlando attracts millions of tourists annually, making the city great for hospitality and entertainment businesses. Tourism-reliant businesses, however, may experience fluctuations in demand throughout the year, and you’re subject to seasonal workforces. Prime locations in tourist areas might be scarce and expensive, limiting options for brick-and-mortar businesses.

Tampa 

J.P. Morgan has a significant presence in Tampa, and HSN is headquartered in the city, as is the restaurant group Bloomin’ Brands, which owns Bonefish Grill, Outback, and a host of other restaurant chains. There’s a more recent emphasis on the Tampa Bay area as an “innovation corridor,” so look at locating research, tech, and entrepreneurship operations here. Like many places near Florida’s coast, the tourism industry offers opportunities for businesses targeting visitors. The cost of living is typically lower than some of its larger Florida counterparts.

Step 8: Find a Florida registered agent

A registered agent is your point person (or service) for all your legal and state notices. They accept these documents on your behalf and pass them along. And in Florida, all businesses are required to have a registered agent. To qualify as a Florida registered agent, that individual or legal entity must meet the following criteria: 

• An entity cannot serve as its own agent, but an individual or principal associated with the business can. 
• The registered agent must have a physical street address in the state that is not a P.O. box. 
• A business entity with an active Florida filing or registration can be named as your registered agent. 

To find a Florida agent, conduct an online search, ask for recommendations from other similar businesses, or appoint a trusted individual associated with your business who will be available during business hours. 

Step 9: Get a Florida EIN and file your tax and employer identification documents

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a nine-digit number the IRS uses to identify your business for tax purposes. Although Florida doesn't require a state EIN, you'll need one to file payroll taxes and federal tax returns, open a business bank account, and apply for loans. You can apply for a free EIN through the IRS website.

Step 10: Register as a small business in Florida

When registering your small business in Florida, you’ll want to file the appropriate forms and pay the required fees through the state’s Sunbiz website. Always consult a qualified professional like an accountant or lawyer for specific guidance based on your unique business situation and chosen business structure.

Step 11: Register for your business license and permits in Florida

Getting the proper licenses and permits is critical to ensuring you can operate legally and successfully in Florida. If, for instance, you’re selling taxable services or products in the state, you’ll need to obtain a seller’s permit through the Florida Department of Revenue. Selling alcoholic beverages requires an ABC license from the Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco. If you’re a contractor, hairdresser, funeral director, physician, or other professional, you’ll likely need a license to operate in your profession. Check with your regulatory agency to determine the correct licensing and permit requirements when you’re starting a new business. 

Do you need a business license in Florida?

There is no state-level requirement for a general business license in Florida. However, the licenses and permits you may need will depend on your profession, location, and your product or service offerings. For instance, most cities and counties require businesses to obtain a business tax receipt to operate legally within their jurisdiction. Reach out to your local tax collector’s office to see if you need one. 

Step 12: Secure insurance for small business in Florida

With its propensity to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and flooding, Florida is a bit of a unique case. The risk of adverse events has led some insurance companies to be more selective about the properties they will insure in Florida, particularly in higher-risk areas. So be sure to find an agent that can help you navigate Florida’s insurance complexities. 

Common types of Florida small business insurance

Step 13: Prepare to pay taxes on your business in Florida 

In general, the Sunshine State is a tax-friendly place. The lack of personal income tax and the fact that LLCs, S corps, and sole proprietorships don't have to pay corporate income taxes can be a real boon to small business owners just starting out.

When forming your Florida business, you’ll want to be aware of a few common taxes in the state. Keep in mind that you may be subject to other taxes depending on your industry and business structure type. 

State corporate income tax

Also called the franchise tax, this business privilege tax is imposed on all for-profit corporations (including LLCs electing corporate tax treatment) registered in Florida. You’ll calculate your taxes based on capital stock, gross receipts, and other factors.

Payroll taxes

If you have employees, you'll be responsible for withholding federal and state income taxes, Social Security, and Medicare from their paychecks. Simplify this process with the help of QuickBooks Payroll.

Federal taxes

Businesses in Florida are also responsible for paying all applicable federal US taxes to the IRS, including:

• Federal income tax
• Self-employment tax (for sole proprietors and partners)
• Employment taxes (if you have employees), including the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA tax)
• Excise taxes (for certain industries)

These IRS resources will help you understand your federal tax obligations as a small business: Publication 334, Tax Guide for Small Business and Publication 583, Taxpayers Starting a Business and Keeping Records.

Tax credits and incentives for Florida employers

Fortunately, Florida does offer plenty of incentives and exemptions depending on your industry, who you hire, and where you locate your business. Here are a few programs you might be able to apply to your business: 

• The Experiential Learning Tax Credit Program provides incentives to qualified businesses that hire apprentices or interns.  
• The Rural Job Tax Credit may award qualifying businesses up to $500,000 in tax credits during a calendar year for their efforts in creating jobs.
• The Strong Families Tax Credit is for charitable businesses focused on child well-being and welfare. 
• The Capital Investment Tax Credit provides exemptions for organizations that establish a qualified project, resulting in a cumulative capital investment of at least $25 million.

Step 14: Set up your business bank account

So you have everything else in order, but you need a system to handle your finances. That’s where setting up a small business bank account comes into play. A business-designated bank account keeps your business and personal finances separate and is important even if you’re a sole proprietor. 

Follow these steps to set up your small business bank account in Florida:

1. You’ll need to gather all business documents, registrations, and tax numbers you may have to set up your Florida business bank account. 
2. When shopping for a bank—whether online or brick-and-mortar—you’ll want to ensure that the financial institution has the types of accounts you’ll need. Choose a local credit union if you’re looking for more personalized service and customer support. Or go with a larger traditional bank should you want access to locations when traveling. 
3. Begin establishing credit by opening a credit card. Look for cards with rewards you can use in your business, whether it’s travel points for conferences or cash back for office supplies and equipment. 
4. Select the right intuitive accounting software to track all your transactions, expenses, and invoices in one place. 
5. As your business grows, you may need professional services to take your finances to the next level. Look for an accountant or bookkeeper who is well-versed in your industry, can guide you through Florida's tax laws, and can help you formulate long-term company projections.

Additional resources to get your business started 

There are several state and federal resources that can support your business with guidance, training, potential funding and more. 

State resources

Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network: This Florida network of local centers provides free consulting and training to small businesses. The SBDC network can also help small businesses find funding, including grants. 

Florida Division of Corporations: Supports businesses by providing services such as business registration, compliance resources, and access to public records. 

Florida Business Information Portal: This is Florida’s official business information portal. It provides information on Florida-specific requirements and resources for businesses and professionals, as well as links to county and city government resources. 

FloridaCommerce Office of Small Business Innovation: FloridaCommerce promotes economic prosperity for Florida's small businesses through economic development programs to further diversify Florida's economy and create future resiliency.

Federal resources 

Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA supports small businesses through various loan programs, including the 7(a) loan, provides resources for government contracting, and offers counseling and training programs to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.

Grants.gov: This centralized platform simplifies the process of searching for and applying for federal grants across various sectors. It also provides grant writing tips and has a Grants Learning Center featuring the basics of grants, eligibility, and more. 

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR): SBIR and STTR programs provide research and development funding to innovative tech companies. 

SCORE: SCORE is a national nonprofit organization that partners with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide free mentoring and educational resources to entrepreneurs and small business owners. While not a direct federal agency, SCORE is an independent organization with a network of volunteer business mentors across the United States.   

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): The USDA website lists grants, loans, and other programs and resources for farmers and other businesses serving rural America.

Costs to start a small business in Florida

Costs to start a business in Florida will vary depending on the type of business, the business structure, your industry, required permits and licenses, and other factors. At a minimum, your costs to start a small Florida business will begin around $150 for filing fees and registrations, but allocate at least $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the equipment you need, space you’ll be renting, and more. 

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to start a small business in Florida?

Once you have a refined concept, you can start a business in Florida pretty quickly. Obtaining permits and licenses can take anywhere from a few days to two or three months, depending on your business and industry. 

What do you need to start a business in Florida legally?

Choose a business entity and name your business. Register your entity and then hire a registered agent. Depending on your industry and location, you may need permits and licenses. 

Do small businesses pay taxes in Florida?

Sole proprietorships, partnerships, and LLCs (unless taxed as C corporations) don’t pay state income tax on business profits. However, the profits pass through to each individual’s personal income tax return. If you have a corporation or other entity, you may be required to pay the corporate income tax or state franchise tax. There are other mandatory taxes depending on your industry, products, and services, so check with the Florida Department of Revenue.

Disclaimer: 

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