By Jim Carchidi
February 9, 2026
Local entrepreneurs have a new avenue to success at Orange County’s Business Resource Office, located on the first floor of the County Administration Complex at 201 S. Rosalind Ave.
In-person assistance
The facility opened in January to assist with and facilitate free services available to the business community. Program referrals, guidance on technical and regulatory issues, and information on partner organizations are among the items available to small business owners and those looking to start a business. Walk-in customers are welcome.
According to the Small Business Alliance, more than 415,000 small businesses operate in the Metro Orlando area, accounting for more than 80 percent of the businesses in the county. Enhancing services and expanding support for small businesses was a priority for Mayor Jerry Demings, who elaborated on the importance of the Business Resource Office in a prepared statement.
“While we have implemented efficiencies to help businesses grow, the process can sometimes be confusing,” he said. “That’s where this office comes in. It’s a one-stop hub designed to make doing business in Orange County easier.”
Online options
The county also launched an online Business Resource Dashboard with digital access to resources and an interactive map to explore potential business locations, identify zoning designations, and review property data. The office and dashboard are managed by the Planning, Environmental and Development Services (PEDS) Department.
The Business Resource Office broadens the range of Orlando-area small business resources that also include the Orlando Economic Partnership and the National Entrepreneur Center (NEC).
Hyperlocal help
The City of Winter Park offers a similar resource in cooperation with the NEC. Individualized coaching seminars and mentoring sessions are available through the Winter Park Business Academy to all businesses based within the city limits. Resources are specific to Winter Park in content and location with meetings, networking events, and coaching sessions held at Winter Park facilities and virtually.
Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Orlando’s Fashion Square Mall, the NEC has earned national attention for its collaborative approach to small business development through a network of partnerships.
Sponsor: The Orlando Real is sponsored by the Pozek Group — the #1 real estate team in Orlando and the Official Real Estate Team of the Orlando Magic.
About the Author
Jim Carchidi is an Orlando journalist and photographer with previous work at the Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Business Journal. He covers development, arts, culture, and local stories for The Orlando Real.
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