Tampa’s vibrant economy is fueled by a dynamic small business community. Recognizing the pivotal role these enterprises play, the city offers a variety of resources to support and empower entrepreneurs.
City of Tampa’s Small Business Navigator
The Small Business Navigator (SBN) program serves as a primary point of contact for small businesses within the city. It assists business owners, entrepreneurs, sole proprietors, pre-ventures, and startups by connecting them with the necessary resources to navigate challenges throughout their business lifecycle. The program offers one-on-one assessments to identify strengths and areas for improvement, guiding businesses toward suitable assistance programs. Learn more about the SBN program.
Tampa Entrepreneur Support Hub
Funded by a Community Development Block Grant, the Tampa Entrepreneur Support Hub addresses gaps in mentorship, training, technical assistance, and access to resources for small businesses and entrepreneurs. The initiative supports entrepreneurs looking to start, strengthen, and expand their businesses within the city. Eligible businesses may also qualify for microgrants to support their growth. Discover more about the Entrepreneur Support Hub.
THAPgroup’s Entrepreneur Development Hub
The Tampa-Hillsborough Action Plan, Inc. (THAP) offers the Entrepreneur Development Hub (EDH) at the 5508 Marketplace. The EDH provides coworking spaces, virtual office addresses, event spaces, and training facilities for rent. It serves as a platform for tabletop vendors and food trucks to start, launch, and grow their businesses in a budget-friendly manner. Additionally, the Capital Readiness Institute (CRI) within the EDH offers training, coaching, and networking opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs. Explore THAPgroup’s initiatives.
Florida SBDC at the University of South Florida
The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the University of South Florida provides no-cost confidential business consulting, information, and low-cost training to existing and emerging businesses in Tampa. Services include assistance in marketing, business certification, capital access, market diversification, strategic business planning, export services, and web optimization. Find out more about the Florida SBDC at USF.
Women’s Business Centre
The Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre offers free business coaching, webinars, mastermind groups, networking opportunities, and access to financial resources. As the only SBA-designated Women’s Business Centre on the west coast of Florida since 2013, it provides virtual services to entrepreneurs in Hillsborough, Hernando, Pinellas, Polk, Pasco, and Manatee counties. Learn more about the Women’s Business Centre.
By leveraging these resources, Tampa’s entrepreneurs can access the support and guidance needed to thrive in the local economy.