Starting a business in Florida is not too complicated, and there are plenty of resources available to help. You don't need much more than a good idea, the appropriate licenses and permits, as well as business know-how and the right amount of cash.

Good Idea

Great businesses all start with a good idea. You can evaluate the feasibility of your idea by taking advantage of one-on-one counseling from one of Florida's Small Business Development Centers.

Licenses and Permits

Your county tax collector will be able to provide you with the appropriate business license; you may need two if you live within city limits (one from the county and one from the city). If you need to collect sales tax, the Florida Department of Revenue will issue a resale certificate to do this.

Working Space

Different counties have rules about where you can conduct business. Your county or city tax collector will tell you if you cannot operate a business from your current location.

Business Knowledge

Though you may be an expert in your field, you still need to know what it takes to operate a successful business. The SDBC has a multitude of classes and other resources to help you along the way.

Working Capital

Most businesses need money. Put together a business plan to attract potential investors, and check out the Financial Assistance links on eFlorida.com to help you along the way.

Source:

EFlorida: Start a Small Business in Florida

StateofFlorida: Doing Business in the State of Florida

Sunbiz.org: Starting a Business in Florida

Resource:

Florida SBDC Network

MyFlorida: Annual Resale Certificate for Sales Tax (PDF)