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How to start a business in Lakeland, Florida

You have a good idea — now the fun begins.

Lake Mirror at sunset in Lakeland, FL

Is the sun rising on your best idea yet?

Photo by @_guaro_

Table of Contents

If you’ve lived in Lakeland for five minutes, you’ve likely noticed that Lakeland loves small businesses. We’re rounding up some helpful resources and information to get you started.

Resources

Funding

Find information regarding funding and financial incentives at the following institutions:

Tips

Here’s what a few local business owners said about starting your own business:

  • “Tell someone your idea! Then believe in it every day...” — @crash_bookshop
  • “Start with basics: legal creation online with the state. For FL, sunbiz.org. Always create an LLC and then acquire an FEIN from the IRS…” — @puravie
  • “... Relationships and reputation are so important.” — @venuelakeland
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