Starting a Business

Starting a new business can be a daunting task. Working with several partners throughout the community, we've taken some of the mystery out of the process by providing the following resources.

Guide to Doing Business in Sarasota County
This Guide to Doing Business in Sarasota County presents key data to existing and new businesses operating or interested in operating in Sarasota County. The information enables companies to quickly assess how major factors related to the conduct of business might affect their profitability. Although designed to address many of the questions associated with business development, the guide is not an all-inclusive document. Additional information can be obtained from other sources, most of which have been included for your convenience. The Sarasota County Government, the Tourism and Economic Development Board and the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County are partners in promoting job-creating investment.

Entrepreneur Resource Guide
Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or on your way to becoming one, this one-stop entrepreneur resource guide will help you at every stage of your business: from the basic how-to’s of starting a business to expansion assistance and ongoing education.  This guide is a result of a partnership between the Suncoast Workforce Board, Economic Development Council of Manatee County, and Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County.

Virtual Incubator
The Economic Development Foundation has created a virtual incubator for the communities of Southwest Florida, including Sarasota County. Visit this website to learn about becoming an business owner, finding a mentor and leading your company.