Polk County, Florida, is one of the fastest-growing areas in the state, offering entrepreneurs and small business owners the perfect environment to launch and grow their ventures. With its central location, booming population, and business-friendly policies, Polk County provides everything you need to thrive in today’s competitive market.
And it offers a fantastic opportunity to live a balanced Work-Life and rich quality of life, complete with heritage sites, outdoor activities, local events, and lots of lakes to explore!
Starting a Business in Polk County, Florida
- Why Polk?
- Setting Up Your Business with the State of Florida
- Setting Up Your Business in Polk County
- Setting Up Your Business Stuff
Why Polk?
Strategic Location
Being perfectly situated in the heart of the state of Florida, Polk County is a magnet for businesses seeking accessibility and growth.
Polk County is ideally positioned along the I-4 Corridor, halfway between Tampa and Orlando. This prime location offers easy access to major markets, close proximity to a transportation hub at Lakeland Linder Internation Airport, and the central location makes it idea for distribution.
Growing Population and Economy
Polk County’s population is projected to surpass 800,000 within the next few years, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in Florida. This rapid growth means more customers, workforce expansion and with top industries in the area, it has strong economic indicators.
Business-Friendly Environment
Polk County maintains an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and business growth with low taxes, incentives for small businesses by the local government, and lots of networking opportunities that support new and existing businesses.
Supportive Community
Polk County residents value and support local businesses, making it easier to establish a loyal customer base. With a collaborative spirit, events and festivals and lots of “shop local” campaigns, it’s a place to grow.
Strong Business Resources
Polk County offers a wealth of resources to help entrepreneurs get started and succeed with Small Business Development Centers, Central Florida SCORE, Polk Vision, and Local Universities and Colleges.
Diverse Market Opportunities
Thriving Tourism and Hospitality Industry
Polk County welcomes millions of visitors each year thanks to attractions like LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo, Bok Tower Gardens and the biggest attraction, the 400+ lakes. Starting a business catering to tourists, like restaurants, shops, or activity-based ventures, has significant potential in this area.
Logistics and Supply Chain
Thanks to Polk County’s position as a major distribution hub, logistics is already in place to any distribution business.
Agriculture
The area’s rich history in citrus farming and emerging industries like hydroponics provide niche opportunities.
Top Industries include:
- Logistics and Distribution: Amazon, Walmart, Publix
- Healthcare: Lakeland Regional Health, BayCare Health System
- Tourism: LEGOLAND Florida, Bok Tower Gardens
- Agriculture: Leading in citrus production and blueberries
- Major Employers: Publix Super Markets (headquartered in Lakeland), Amazon, AdventHealth
Quality of Life
Polk County’s affordable living, family-friendly atmosphere, and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities make it a great place to live and work. This high quality of life attracts and retains talented and happy employees. And entrepreneurs can enjoy a work-life balance lifestyle that far exceeds other locations.
Affordable Real Estate
Polk County’s commercial and industrial real estate is more affordable compared to neighboring metro areas like Tampa and Orlando making office spaces, retail stores and industrial parks easier to obtain. And with downtown revitalization going on in some of the larger cities such as Winter Haven, Bartow and Lakeland, there are currently more opportunities for local businesses to get started.
Welcoming for Online Business
Polk County’s central location, low operating costs, and access to a growing population make it an excellent choice for online entrepreneurs. Whether you’re offering digital services, e-commerce, or creative content, the county’s pro-business environment and resources can help you thrive in the competitive online market.
Starting a online business in Polk County is a straightforward process that combines state and local requirements with the flexibility of operating in a digital space while enjoying the lifestyle Polk County has to offer.
The Polk County Advantage
Starting a business in Polk County gives you:
- Access to a vibrant, growing community.
- Proximity to major metro areas without the high costs.
- Strong local support systems for entrepreneurs.
- A unique blend of opportunities across industries.
The area’s growth, support, and quality of life make it one of the most attractive spots for entrepreneurs in Florida.
Setting up Your Business with the State of Florida
There are several steps to set up your business in the State of Florida which are requirements across the state.
One of the easiest ways to set up your business is by using a registered agent service (It’s surprisingly easy and afforable!)
If you want to do it yourself, here’s a brief overview. (You can also read our complete step by step guide to registering your LLC yourself in Florida here)
Register Your Business Entity
Begin by registering your business with the Florida Division of Corporations Sunbiz website. This process establishes your business legally within the state.
Start by searching Sunbiz to be sure your desired name is available. Then you can choose to file online or download a print copy to mail in.
Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or simply (EIN)
Apply for a EIN through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This number is necessary for tax purposes and to hire employees.
Register with the Florida Department of Revenue (if applicable)
In Florida, you will need to check with the Florida Department of Revenue website to register for sales tax, unemployment tax and employer withholding tax (if applicable to your business)
Acquire Necessary State Licenses or Permits
Depending on your industry, you may need specific state licenses. For instance, businesses in healthcare, construction, or food services require additional permits and professional services such as real estate, financial services, etc may require specific licenses. Consult the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation for detailed information.
Setting up Your Business in Polk County
Secure a Polk County Local Business Tax Receipt
Even for online businesses, Polk County requires a Local Business Tax Receipt if your business has a physical address in the county (e.g., a home office or fulfillment center). Submit an application and pay the required fee at the Polk County Tax Collector’s website.
Comply with Zoning Regulations
If you plan to run your online business from home, check with the Polk County Zoning Department to ensure compliance with local zoning laws.
Take Advantage of Local Resources & Ongoing Education
Always be learning, that’s my motto. As an entrepreneur and small business owner, it is important to get the training you need to be the best at managing a company. Polk County offers several resources to help your online business succeed and there are courses and training programs available locally.
Central Florida Development Council (CFDC): Provides guidance and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs (cfdc.org).
SCORE Central Florida: Offers free business mentoring and workshops (score.org).
Polk State College Corporate College: Training programs for business owners and employees (polk.edu).
Divergent-U: Want to jumpstart your business? Learn to think divergently as you build your business with one-on-one business and personal guidance along the way. (divergent-u.com)
Local Contacts
Polk County Tax Collector: For information on Local Business Tax Receipts.
Polk County Zoning and Permitting: F\or zoning regulations and permits.
City Governments in Polk
- Auburndale
- Bartow
- Davenport
- Dundee
- Eagle Lake
- Fort Meade
- Frostproof
- Haines City
- Highland Park
- Hillcrest Heights
- Lake Alfred
- Lake Hamilton
- Lake Wales
- Lakeland
- Mulberry
- Polk City
- Winter Haven
Setting Up Your Business Stuff
Open a Business Bank Account
Keep personal and business finances separate by opening a dedicated business bank account. This is essential for bookkeeping and legal protection. Check out some online banks that offer free checking for businesses: Novo, Found, and Mercury are good options.
Set up a Business Merchant Account – Accept Credit Cards
The easiest way to accept payments is setting up a Stripe account. It is really easy to do, simply add all of your business information and attach to your bank account and you are good to go. Stripe may need a few days to verify your information.
Get Business Insurance
You may be required to get insurance for certain industries, particularly if you are selling a product, opening a physical location, or hiring employees. Online businesses should also consider insurance for liability protection. See What Every Florida Entrepreneur Should Know About Business Insurance
Setting Up Your Financials
Focus on setting up a budget and how to manage your accounting. See Essential Budgeting Tips for First-Time Entrepreneurs in Florida
Setting up Your Workspace
Whether you are establishing a physical location or setting up your home workspace, be sure to make sure it has everything you need to function without stress in a comfortable environment.
Marketing & Promotion
Now is the time to really sit down and strategize how you will reach your target audience and gain sales. Building a professional website that showcases your business, creating social media profiles (scheduling posts and being active on social), and putting out a press release , starting an email campaign, are all good first steps. Local or online networking is also helpful when you are starting out to let people know you are in business.
Managing Your Work-Life Balance
Now that you have everything set up, it’s important to plan and journal to be sure you are keeping a balance between you work, family, friends and self-care.
Ad Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning we may recieve a small commission. Learn how we make money to support our site in our full ad disclosure here.