Whether your business needs include venture capital, experienced commercial lenders, or access to federal & state programs, Florida has the resources your business requires.
Angel Investments and Venture Capital (VC): The venture capital and angel investments communities in Florida continue to grow and evolve. Most recently, Florida launched several capital formation initiatives intended to increase the amount of early-stage seed and venture capital investment into the state.
More than 750 venture capital deals have closed in the state since 2000, resulting in nearly $6.3 billion in total venture capital spending. Many VC, angel and private equity firms already in Florida are capitalizing on the innovative young businesses that abound here. The Florida Venture Forum is the statewide organization that helps connect investors and entrepreneurs and its online directory is a virtual who’s who of that community.
Young high-tech companies may also seek federal SBIR/STTR grants. Enterprise Florida Inc.’s Phase 0 Pilot Program can increase their chances of developing successful proposals for such funding.
Lenders: Florida is home to more than 200 commercial banks with billions in deposits. Find a Florida financial institution.
For international financial institutions in the state (foreign banks, Edge Act corporations, and US-insured institutions) that enable the conduct of international trade by issuing letters of credit, providing currency exchange, and making trade related loans, as well as financing projects in various countries throughout the Americas, please visit the Florida International Bankers Association.
Federal & State Programs: There are several federal and state programs available that provide businesses with some financial aid, including:
- Enterprise Bond Program: Offers tax-exempt, low interest bond financing to qualified manufacturing and 501(c)3 non-profit organizations through Florida Development Finance Corporation. For more information regarding the Enterprise Bond program, please visit the Florida Development Finance Corporation.
SBA Loan Programs:Through its two local SBA offices in Florida,
Jacksonville SBA office and
Miami SBA office, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers several loan programs that provide financial aid to small businesses.
- Federal Grants: The federal government primarily provides grants for research and development. Below are a few websites that provide information about these grants and other types of assistance:
Federal Grants
SBIR/STTR Grants
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance