The City of Kissimmee helps to guide business owners with vital information and partners with local agencies that provide low to no-cost business assistance, ensuring that critical business support and guidance are readily available to our business owners.
There are many things to sort out when starting your business. Sometimes, you may need advice from experienced business owners or training in specialized areas. Several resources and programs are available to you right here in Kissimmee or within a short drive. Many of these resources are available to you for free!
Here are some helpful services offered to you as you start your business.
Prospera - A nonprofit organization providing free bilingual technical assistance to Hispanic entrepreneurs.
Small Business Development Center (SBDC) - The SBDC, in partnership with the University of Central Florida, offers workshops on various business topics, individual counseling, and unique business development programs for start-ups and existing businesses.
SCORE - Provides free and confidential business counseling tailored to small businesses' needs. Offers workshops for both start-ups and current companies.
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.
Whether you’re a first-time small business owner or expanding your business into the City of Kissimmee, a chamber of commerce or business council can assist you in opening doors in our city.
The Leads Group Center - A networking program that provides opportunities to collaborate with other business owners in Osceola County.
African American Chamber of Commerce - Assists clients with designing blueprints for business development, growth, and success.
National Association of Women Business Owners – Orlando (NAWBO) – A national dues-based organization representing female business owners across all industries and is affiliated in over 35 countries.
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of MetroOrlando - The leading Hispanic business voice for Central Florida.
The Small Business Council (SBC) - Provides “leadership, education, networking, and marketing opportunities for small businesses.” You must be a Kissimmee/Osceola County Chamber of Commerce member to qualify.
Hispanic Business Council - Guides Hispanic businesses and establishes networking opportunities with other companies.
Research is integral to preparing to open your business, and knowing where to find the information you need is crucial. Here are two quick and effective ways to research business start-ups and economic conditions in the area.
Osceola County Library System—The Osceola County Library System is an easy place to start your research, especially with the Hart Memorial branch right in downtown Kissimmee. Their online Business and Company Resource Center offers abundant information for small and large businesses.
Osceola County Economic Development Department Access an online annual economic profile for the area with helpful information when deciding where to open your business.
Kissimmee Main Street is a nonprofit Main Street Program whose mission is to preserve and enhance Historic Downtown Kissimmee to enrich present and future generations. The KMS Economic Restructuring Committee offers unique opportunities to new businesses within the district, including:
New Business Assistance Grant—This grant allows you to pay your Kissimmee Utility Authority deposit over a 24-month period. In addition, KMS will reimburse program participants for the first $500 of media advertising and promotions during their first 90 days of operation.
Conditional Use Assistance Grant - This grant offers a $1,000 reimbursement to new businesses within the KMS district that require a Conditional Use Permit.