Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Small Business Development Center (SBDC)?

The Florida Small Business Development Center, or SBDC, provides no-cost confidential consulting and low-cost training in proven management fundamentals helping small business owners and potential entrepreneurs make sound decisions for the successful operation of their business. Visit us to start receiving consulting and low-cost training.

How can the SBDC help someone thinking of starting a business?

The SBDC offers Entrepreneurial Assessment, Pre-Business and Business Planning seminars for those individuals who want general information on starting a business, or who are in the initial start-up phase. SBDC consultants can then help you with the details of turning your plan into a successful reality.

Do you have to be in business to use the services of the FSBDC?

No. You only have to be considering the idea of opening a business or researching the feasibility of a proposed profit-making venture

My business is already established. How can the FSBDC help me?

The SBDC provides an array of consulting services to established businesses including one-on-one consulting in business planning, marketing and promotion, financial analysis, accounting, record keeping, human resources, strategic planning, new market diversification, and other areas. In addition, the procurement technical assistance program is available for companies that want to bid on government contracts and international trade specialists are available to consult with firms that want to enter into or expand in the global marketplace. The Florida SBDC at Florida Gulf Coast University is ready to help businesses in all stages with a variety of issues.

Can the SBDC help me if my business is a not-for-profit business?

Because of the SBDC’s funding guidelines, the Florida Small Business Development Centers are not able to assist businesses that are established as not-for-profit.

What can I expect from my Florida SBDC consultant?

At your initial meeting, your consultant will review your business needs or proposal, determine a course of action and identify areas that both of you will be responsible for completing. Your consultant will then follow up with an engagement letter detailing your meeting and listing the items that both of you will be working on, along with an estimated time frame for completion and anticipated outcomes

Is it really No-Cost? Who pays for the SBDC program?

The SBDC is part of a state-wide network of colleges and university centers which is a joint venture of federal, state, and private sector agencies and organizations including the US Small Business Administration and the Florida Department of Community & Economic Development. Each agency, along with the host university or college, contributes to the financial support of the program.
The Florida SBDC Network is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Defense Logistics Agency, State of Florida, and other private and public partners, with the University of West Florida serving as the Network’s designated lead host institution.

Does the Florida SBDC charge for its services?

The management and technical assistance services are provided at no charge to the client. Nominal fees are generally charged for training seminars and special events.

Interested in one-on-one business consulting?

We offer no-cost business consulting services to SWFL entrepreneurs. Whether you’re thinking about starting a business, you have a new business, or you want to grow your current business, we have you covered.

What can I expect from business counseling sessions?

Florida SBDC at Florida Gulf Coast University consultants are available to meet with you for one-on-one appointments at no cost.
Advisors can help you in many areas, such as business plan consultation, financial planning, marketing consulting, cash flow analysis and more.
Appointments are held at SBDC offices, at your organization, or over web conference and can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours.

How should I prepare for my appointment?

Your assigned consultant can help you determine what information will be necessary to have prior to your appointment. A consultant will call or email you prior to your appointment to be sure he/she has all of the information needed.
Determine what areas of your business you need help with immediately.
Prepare any questions or things you would like to discuss with your consultant.
Bring any costs, projections, or other numbers that will help your consultant help you (interim financials, company tax returns, personal returns for situations involving principals).

How can I set up an appointment?

Call or stop by your nearest regional or satellite office or complete an online request for consulting.
You may also stop by your nearest regional office to obtain more information and schedule a future appointment.