How to Start and Grow Your Business in the Greater Manatee County Region

Starting a business in Manatee County is an exciting journey that involves choosing the right business structure, registering your business, obtaining any required licenses, creating a business plan, and connecting with organizations that can help you succeed. This guide walks you through each step and links you with trusted local, state, and federal resources.

When preparing to launch your company, it’s important that you follow all the necessary steps to start off in the right direction. Here are a few tips:

Step 1: Refine Your Business Idea by Asking Yourself:

• What product or service will I offer?
• Who is my ideal customer?
• What makes my business different?
• Is there enough demand for my idea?
• Who are my competitors?

Why it’s important: Taking time to validate your idea before investing money can save significant time and expense later.

Step 2: Write a Business Plan That Includes:

• Executive Summary
• Products and Services
• Target Market
• Marketing Strategy
• Operations Plan
• Financial Projections
• Startup Costs
• Funding Needs

Why it’s important: Many lenders and investors require a business plan before providing financing.

Step 3: Choose Your Business Structure – Common Options Include:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Corporation
• S-Corporation

Important note: Because each structure has different tax and legal implications, many entrepreneurs consult an attorney or CPA before making this decision.

Step 4: Register Your Business if Applicable

• Register with the State of Florida
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS
• Register a fictitious business name (DBA)
• Open a business bank account

Important Note: which items you need are dependent upon your type of business.

Step 5: Obtain Licenses and Permits if Applicable. Some Examples Include:

• Professional licenses
• Contractor licenses
• Food service permits
• Health inspections
• Sales tax registration
• Local business tax receipts

Important Note: Requirements vary by industry and location. Check the Department of Business & Professional Regulation to confirm whether your business needs a license. If located within one of the six cities to secure the necessary local occupational license: Anna Maria, Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key, Palmetto. Manatee County, including the unincorporated areas of Ellenton, Lakewood Ranch, Myakka, and Parrish, does not require business licenses but there are some licensing requirements for certain types of businesses. Contact Manatee County’s Business Licenses & Permits for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I know if I’m ready to start a business? You’re ready to begin when you’ve identified a clear business idea, researched your target market, understand your startup costs, and are willing to invest the time and effort required to build your business. A written business plan can help you determine whether you’re truly prepared before making a financial commitment.
• What are the first steps to starting a business? Most entrepreneurs begin by choosing a business structure, registering their business, obtaining any required licenses or permits, creating a business plan, and opening a dedicated business bank account. Taking these steps early helps establish a solid foundation for future growth.
• How long does it take for a new business to become profitable? Every business is different. Profitability depends on factors such as your industry, startup costs, pricing strategy, marketing efforts, and customer demand. Many successful businesses take time to build momentum, so it’s important to create realistic financial projections and maintain adequate working capital.
• What’s the biggest mistake new business owners make? One of the most common mistakes is launching without sufficient planning. Taking time to research your market, understand your competition, prepare financial projections, and develop a marketing strategy can help reduce risk and improve your chances of long-term success.
• Why should I work with the Manatee Chamber after my business is open? Starting your business is only the beginning. The Manatee Chamber offers networking events, educational programs, leadership opportunities, marketing tools, business advocacy, and connections that can help your business grow for years to come. Building relationships within the local business community is one of the best investments you can make in your long-term success.

We’re Rooting for You!

The success of your business is important to us. The Manasota Chapter of SCORE and the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) are great resources to help you create a business plan, secure financing, receive business counseling, develop a marketing plan, and more. To get prepared, here is a checklist of things to consider when starting a business.

Visit the Manatee Chamber’s Preferred Business Directory to find members that offer business financing, loans and capital as well as business consultants and coaches, attorneys, accountants, and commercial realtors.