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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
- Central Florida SCORE — Polk County entrepreneurs can get mentorship, classes, and workshops through this local nonprofit. Attend its next event, the Small Business Expo, on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 at 9 a.m. at My Office and More (122 E. Main St.).
- Catapult Lakeland — This Lake Mirror-adjacent workspace offers coworking space, offices for rent, dedicated desk space, a maker space, and a commercial kitchen. Catapult is catered towards new businesses as startups.
- The Well — Lakeland’s $1.3 million, 4,700-sqft Midtown workspace supports underrepresented business owners to launch, grow, and sustain their businesses.
- COhatch — Across from Munn Park, you’ll find Lakeland’s newest coworking and social space. It features member perks like podcasting rooms, private offices, health and wellness programs, and more.
- The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce — This local nonprofit equips local businesses with vital support through events, workshops, and more. Become a member.
Funding
Find information regarding funding and financial incentives at the following institutions:
- City of Lakeland — Lakeland offers economic development incentives for new businesses.
- Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency — Check out incentives for businesses in the downtown, Dixieland, and Midtown areas.
- State of Florida — Statewide incentives include tax exemptions, tax credits, grants, and more.
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
