In Osceola County, small businesses are essential to the local economy. That’s why the Osceola Chamber works hard to provide local business owners with useful resources through our membership and local partners. Whether you’re starting a new business or building-up an existing one, these resources lay the groundwork for any entrepreneur to thrive.
The Osceola Chamber Events
Networking is vital to business success. That’s why we invite professionals from across Central Florida to our successful networking events. These events are designed to boost professional growth and small business support:
Business After Hours: These monthly events offer a chance to meet diverse entrepreneurs and leaders. Grow your network and forge new partnerships by connecting with the small business community. Admission is free for Chamber members.
First Fridays: Engage with peers in a relaxed setting to exchange ideas and best practices. Through shared experiences, First Fridays can help enhance your business plans. First Fridays provide guaranteed access in a relaxed setting to other Chamber members and Chamber staff, and also bring business to a local restaurant.
The Osceola Chamber Coalition Meetings
Joining a Coalition connects you with business leaders who have faced similar challenges. We host seven unique Coalitions, each catering to specific groups and ensuring your needs are fully represented.
Open to members and nonmembers, these free meetings provide a wealth of learning opportunities, as well as an extensive support network for business owners. Through continuous support and dialogue with one another, Coalitions foster awareness and trust throughout the community.
Prospera
Prospera is a nonprofit organization that supports Hispanic entrepreneurs in Osceola County. By offering resources such as business seminars, one-on-one consulting, networking events, and more, Prospera empowers Hispanic entrepreneurs in the community. These services help business owners gain essential skills and build valuable connections. Consultations and seminars are held in Spanish so Hispanic business owners can learn how to start, operate, and grow their businesses.
Prospera’s initiatives strengthen the local economy by fostering innovation, job creation, and economic growth, making it a valuable resource for Hispanic entrepreneurs aiming to start or expand their businesses. With their office located in The Chamber, business owners are welcome to request a free consultation with a Prospera Business Development Consultant.
Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UCF Osceola
Located inside the Osceola Chamber, the Small Business Development Center offers valuable business training and advice for entrepreneurs. It offers consultations with experienced business advisors to help you achieve your long-term goals. SBDC also hosts educational events that teach everything from basic business skills to advanced management techniques.
The SBDC actively partners with the Florida SBDC Network and the University of Central Florida. This allows the SBDC access to a wide range of research tools and databases. These resources, combined with expert advice, help business owners turn data into practical business strategies.
All business consultations, workshops, and data are available at no cost. Additionally, business owners can connect with representatives across eight counties in Central Florida. This ensures they receive the best advice tailored to their specific market needs.
UCF Business Incubation Program
The UCF Business Incubator is a great help for technology startups and innovative enterprises. This program gives businesses access to important resources like office space, tech tools, and connections to industry experts. The program also provides mentorship and connects businesses with potential investors, which greatly supports business growth and innovation.
It has several individual programs designed to assist businesses at different stages of development. The Traction program helps new businesses create strategies to enter the market through business coaching. For businesses that are already up and running, the Growth Program helps them expand their operations. Located in Downtown Kissimmee, the UCF Business Incubator is a great resource for small businesses.
The Osceola Library System
The Osceola Library System supports local entrepreneurs by providing a rich array of business resources. These include access to specialized books, magazines, and online resources. Business owners also have access to free databases for market research, competitive analysis, and career development.
The Library System has free educational events and programs every month to help entrepreneurs acquire practical skills. Additionally, it offers workspaces and meeting rooms equipped with modern technology. These services are designed to help local businesses thrive by minimizing costs and enhancing efficiency.
At The Osceola Chamber, we have connected hundreds of businesses with essential tools and opportunities needed for success. We seek to empower all entrepreneurs to meet and surpass their goals. Our dedication to supporting a thriving business community motivates us to constantly provide innovative solutions to meet the varied needs of our members.
