Step 7: Opening Your Business

There are many ways to celebrate your business opening including a grand opening event. If completely contained within your building, events such as grand openings do not require a permit. Events held outdoors on the premises, including parking lots, may require an event permit from the Parks and Recreation Department.  If you have any questions, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (407) 539-6200.

Additional Resources

U.S. Small Business Association (SBA)

The primary functions of the SBA include loans, loan guarantees, contracts, counseling sessions and other forms of assistance to small businesses. Visit www.sba.gov or call (800) 827-5722 for more information.

Maitland Area Chamber of Commerce

The Maitland Area Chamber of Commerce provides a variety of networking opportunities to communicate and work with other business owners in Maitland and the surrounding area.

Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

The SBDC at UCF offers workshops on a wide range of business topics, individual counseling and special business development programs for both start-ups and existing businesses. Call (407) 847-2452 for more information.

National Entrepreneur Center

A unique public-private partnership dedicated to the development, growth, and success of small businesses. Through a cooperative effort of a diverse group of business support organizations, the E-Center offers professional business assistance, quality educational programming, and access to practical industry expertise. The National Entrepreneur Center has many service providers and on-site community partners such as The Senior Core of Retired Executives (SCORE). SCORE provides free and confidential business counseling tailored to meet the needs of small businesses and offers workshops for both start-up and current businesses. Visit www.orlando.score.org for more information. For information on these and other services, contact the National Entrepreneur Center at (407) 420-4848 or visit www.nationalec.org.

UCF Business Incubation Program

A University-driven community partnership providing early stage companies with the enabling tools, training, and infrastructure to create financially stable high growth enterprises that contribute to the local economy. Visit www.incubator.ucf.edu for more information.

African American Chamber of Commerce

Assists clients with designing blueprints for business development, growth, and success. Visit www.blackcommerce.org for more information.

Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

The leading Hispanic business voice in Central Florida. Visit www.hispanicchamber.net for more information.

National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)

A national dues-based organization that represents female business owners across all industries and is affiliated in more than 35 countries. Visit www.nawboorlando.org for more information.