Entrepreneurship
Polk County Is Here to Support Your Success
Entrepreneurs power the economic vitality, character, and long-term resilience of Polk County. Whether launching a new startup, expanding a small business, or innovating within a niche industry, Polk County’s entrepreneurs create the jobs, products, and services that make our communities stronger. Their drive, creativity, and investment help shape a vibrant county where residents can work, live, and thrive.
Why Entrepreneurs Matter
Job Creators
Small businesses and startups are among the largest job creators in the county. Every new venture fuels employment and strengthens our local workforce.
Drive Innovation
From tech-enabled services to local manufacturing, Polk County entrepreneurs introduce new ideas and expand the region’s economic diversity.
Build Community Investment
Local founders reinvest in our neighborhoods—leasing space, contracting local suppliers, participating in civic programs, and supporting community initiatives.
Enhance Quality of Life
A growing entrepreneurial sector leads to more amenities, more choices for residents, and a resilient economy that continues to attract families and talent.
Resources for Entrepreneurs in Polk County
Polk County is committed to ensuring that every entrepreneur—from early-stage innovators to established business owners—has the tools, support, and connections needed to grow.
Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking expert advice to refine their ideas or scale their operations, the SBDC offers free one-on-one mentoring, business planning support, financial guidance, and workshops.
Inspired by a vision to build a space for entrepreneurs in the community to collaborate and innovate, Catapult Lakeland is vibrant hub with incubators for Wordspace, Makerspace and a Kitchen. Programming and resources are established to help entrepreneurs grow and accelerate their businesses.
Entrepreneurs have access to guidance on registering state entities, local licenses, zoning compliance, and securing the necessary business tax licenses.
Getting Started in Polk County
- Shape your idea: Identify your target customers, competition and value propostion
- Develop a business plan: Outline your mission, financial model, marketing strategy and operation plan.
- Register your business: Choose your business structure (LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.) and file through the Florida Department of State (SunBiz).
- Secure local licensing: Obtain zoning approval, apply for a Local Business Tax Receipt, and meet any industry-specific requirements.
- Leverage Polk County resources: Connect with mentors, join local business groups and tap into community support.
- Launch and GROW: Use Polk County’s strong business ecosystem, strategic location, and community support to scale sustainably.