According to the Small Business Administration, companies with fewer than 500 employees are considered small businesses and are our chief job creators. In
Florida,
over
425,000
small
businesses
represent 99 percent of all employers, and nearly 95 percent of them employ less than 50. This small business guide was designed to provide you with the resources, opportunities and
support
successful
necessary
business
in
to Martin
operate
a
County
-
a one-stop shop for all of your small business education needs.
Business Development Board of Martin County 1002 S.E. Monterey Commons Boulevard Suite 203 Stuart, Florida 34996 772.221.1380 info@bdbmc.org www.yesmartinfl.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS Planning Your Business Checklist for Starting a Business..……..………....4 Structuring a New Business..……..…...………….6 Writing a Business Plan...……………..…………...7 Site and Building Selection...…………..……….11 Starting Your Business Pre-Application/Zoning/Permitting……..…….13 Business Tax Receipt…………….……………….17 Workforce Development.…...…….……………20 Employer Requirements and Taxes……..…….22 Insurance Basics...……...…………………..…….29 Supporting Your Business Small Business Service Providers…..…………...32 State of Florida Business Assistance Incentive Programs....…..42 Martin County Business Assistance Incentive Programs....…..48 Community Redevelopment Agency………..50 Directory of Resources Contact Information..…….……………………...52
3
PLANNING YOUR BUSINESS Checklist for Starting a Business in Martin County □
Do you have a business plan for the business you are planning to start?
□
Do you know what form of legal ownership (sole proprietor, partnership or corporation) is best for your business?
□
Do you know if your business will require a special license or permit and how to obtain it?
□
Do
you
know
demographic
where
data
and
to
find
information
about your customers? □
Do you know how to compute the financial “break even point” for your business?
□
Do you know how to compute the start-up costs for your business?
□
Do you know about the various loan programs that are available from our local banks and the SBA?
□
Do you know how to prepare and/or interpret
a
balance
sheet,
income
statement and cash flow statement? □
Are you sure your planned business fills a specific market need? 4
□ □
Do you know your target market? Do you understand the tax requirements associated with your business?
□
Do
you
know
how
to
prepare
a
marketing strategy for your business? □
Do you know how to learn about your business competitors?
□
Do you understand marketing trends in your business industry?
□
Do
you
feel
computer
or
comfortable other
using
technology
a to
improve business operations? □
Do you have a payroll process planned for your business?
□
Do
you
have
a
customer
service
strategy in mind or in place? □
Do you know how to obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for your business?
□
Do you know if your business should have some form of intellectual property protection?
□
Do
you
know
information
where
about
to
obtain
regulations
and
compliance requirements that impact your business? This represents the variety of questions
that
should
be
considered when starting or operating a small business. Please use this guide as a reference for your success. 5
STRUCTURING A NEW BUSINESS Starting a new business involves careful decision-making and thorough planning from the day the idea first enters your mind to implementing your concept, getting the business up and running and finally to ensuring that your operation will remain a viable and thriving success. One of the first steps in establishing a business is determining the appropriate structure which will affect taxation, legal, financial
liability
and
decision-making
authority. Basic types of business models include; sole proprietorship, partnership, limited
liability
corporation
and
a
corporation. Which is the appropriate type for your new business? You may wish to consult an attorney or an accountant for assistance. For more information on how to choose a legal structure, visit the Florida Department of
State
Division
of
Corporations
at
www.sunbiz.org. Department of State Division of Corporations - Corporate Filings P.O. Box 6327 Tallahassee, FL 32314 850.245.6052 - www.sunbiz.org
6
WRITING A BUSINESS PLAN
A written business plan is a critical component of business.
opening
Regardless
of
a
successful
the
type
of
business that you plan to start, a business plan is the foundation for launching your business.
The business plan serves two
functions: 1) It helps secure financing by demonstrating
technical
competence,
marketing knowledge and organizational ability 2) It helps establish goals, identify risks, recognize financial/physical needs and
provide
guidelines
to
establish
performance. A business plan precisely defines your business, identifies your goals and serves as
your
firm’s
components
resume.
include
a
The current
basic and
pro-forma balance sheet, an income statement and a cash flow analysis. It helps you allocate resources handle
properly, unforeseen
complications
and
make good business decisions. 7
A good business plan is a crucial part of any loan application. It provides specific and
organized
information
about
your
company and how you will repay borrowed money. This business plan serves as a road map for your business success and is necessary for
obtaining loans and other
financial resources. Additionally, it informs sales personnel, suppliers and others about your operations and goals.
Before you begin writing your business plan, consider four core questions: 1. What service or product does your business provide and what need does it fill? 2. Who are the potential customers for your product or service and why will they purchase it from you? 3. How
will
you
reach
your
potential
customers? 4. Where will you get the financial resources to start your business?
8
When writing your business plan, be sure to address each of these vital elements: 1. Description: Define the type of business you are starting, write out your mission statement and set goals for your new company - both short-term and long-term. Provide background on your organization’s history and principals. 2. Organization: At this stage, you must determine what type of organizational structure,
management
and
personnel
your company will require. Identify key management
members
and
their
responsibilities. List goals and a timeline for hiring and training your staff. Determine what is needed to establish and maintain your company’s culture. 3. Market: Understand and define your company’s market. Describe the targeted customer. location
Determine and
size
the of
the
number, various
competitors in the area. Describe your marketing
goals
and
strategies
and
plan to illustrate how you plan to achieve these goals. 9
4.
Location:
Research
the
area
and
determine where you wish to locate your company. When selecting a location for your business, it is important to consider economic factors and the environment of the area in which you are looking; noting the
location
of
both
your
potential
competitors and target audience. 5. Financing: This section should include your proposed financing, past financial performance and future expectations for financial
performance. What are your
financial goals to ensure the success of your business? Careful financial planning is necessary for a successful business. A local business
banker
assistance in
can
offer
valuable
financial assessment.
If you need assistance with your business plan, visit the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at www.cctiirsc.com.
Small Business Development Center Business Incubator of Martin County at IRSC 2400 SE Salerno Road Stuart, FL 34997 772.462.7087
10
SITES AND BUILDINGS SELECTION The Business Development Board of Martin County
(BDBMC)
works
closely
with
businesses that have outgrown their existing location, are starting up a new business or are moving their business to Martin County. Through the long standing and close working
relationships
commercial financial
realtors,
institutions
with
the
property and
area’s owners,
County/City
planners, the Business Development Board is Martin County’s best source for site and building availability.
The BDBMC maintains a database of sites and buildings available in Martin County at www.martincountyprospector.com. w e b - b as ed
a ppl ic a ti o n
This
p r o v id es
comprehensive information to help new, expanding or relocating businesses find the optimal
location
for
success
in
our
community. The BDBMC will work with you to find the right location for your business. 11
Property Database Reports
Search our online database for available properties based on user-defined criteria and generate quality reports for available properties. Local Layers
Our interactive local GIS layers include community
assets
incentive
areas,
community
such
as
land
railroads,
redevelopment
use,
schools,
areas
and
more. Community Profiles
Search our community profiles sections for demographics,
industries
and
business
count reports. Demographic Analysis Reports
Create user-defined analysis for consumer expenditures and labor force reports.
12
PRE-APPLICATION, ZONING & PERMITTING Not sure if the property you have selected for your business is zoned correctly? Zoning regulates what uses are currently permitted on all properties located within Martin County. The
Growth
Management
Department
oversees and regulates zoning. They will let you know if you need a pre-application meeting before you submit your plans and documents for official review. A pre-application meeting explains the planning/zoning process and identifies any issues that may need to be addressed, for example, zoning and conditional uses. The members
from
the
department
are
available to answer any questions you may have and will communicate how the process works and what to expect. Martin County Growth Management Department 2401 S.E. Monterey Road Stuart, FL 34996 772.288.5495 www.martin.fl.us 13
If
you
are
unsure
if
you
need
a
pre-application meeting, please contact the Business Development Board of Martin County to review your site selection. Already
know
pre-application Martin
that
you
meeting?
County
Growth
need
Contact
a the
Management
Department directly. Is the proposed site located within the City of Stuart boundary? The City of Stuart Planning Department is responsible for both long and short range planning functions.
This division maintains
and updates the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations. All development plans are reviewed to assure
conformity
with
guiding documents.
the
City’s
two
Assistance with site
plans and zoning changes are available at the Planning and Zoning department or via phone. City of Stuart Development Department 121 S.W. Flagler Avenue Stuart, Florida 34994 772.288.5368 www.cityofstuart.us
14
When do I need a permit? A permit is required for any physical improvement that you plan to make to the interior or exterior of an existing building, as well as a vacant site or piece of property. The Florida Building Code requires any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure to obtain a permit.
Why do I need a permit?
□
It is required by the State of Florida
□
Permits/Inspections are designed to ensure compliance with County and City codes
□
Permits prevent minor problems from becoming major problems
□
Permits ensure a level of safety
15
How do I get a permit? For buildings, sites or property in Martin County: Martin County Building Department 900 Southeast Ruhnke Street Stuart, FL 34994 772.288.5926 www.martin.fl.us
For buildings, sites or property in the City of Stuart: City of Stuart Development Department 121 S.W. Flagler Avenue Stuart, FL 34994 772.288.5326 www.cityofstuart.us
16
BUSINESS TAX RECEIPT What is a Business Tax Receipt? A local business tax receipt is issued by the Martin
County
Tax
Collector
for
the
privilege of operating a business in Martin County. Anyone providing merchandise or services to the public, even through a one-person
company
or
home
based
business must obtain a county permit to operate. Before a Martin County local business tax receipt can be issued, a business must meet all conditions required by the city, county,
state
and/or
federal
agency
regulations which apply to that business or occupation. Please contact the Martin County Growth Management Department at 772.288.5495 for zoning review of your business prior to obtaining a business tax receipt. How much does a business tax receipt cost? The fee for a local business tax receipt is $26.25 yearly.
New business tax receipts
are issued any time during the year, and are prorated April 1st, at which half-time fees apply. 17
When will my business tax receipt expire? Local business tax receipts are renewed annually and are valid through September 30th each year. Do I need just one business tax receipt for my business? Each location of a business is considered a separate business and requires a separate business tax receipt.
Additionally, some
businesses operate under more than one of the
nearly
200
business
tax
receipt
classifications and are required to have a business tax receipt for each classification. To obtain requirements for a business located in Martin County, please visit the nearest Martin County Tax Collectors office. Office Locations Stuart office (main office) 3485 SE Willoughby Blvd Stuart, FL 34994 Hobe Sound Office 11734 SE Federal Hwy Hobe Sound, FL 33455 Indiantown Office 16550 SW Warfield Blvd Indiantown, FL 34956 Palm City Office 3003 SW Martin Downs Blvd Palm City, FL 34990 772.288.5600 l www.taxcol.martin.fl.us 18
In Martin County, a business located within the city limit requires both a municipal license and a county license to operate. The city license must be procured before a county business tax receipt is issued. To obtain requirements for a business located within the City of Stuart, please contact the City of Stuart Local Business Tax Division. City of Stuart Local Business Tax Division 121 S.W. Flagler Avenue Stuart, FL 34994 772.228.5319 www.cityofstuart.us DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL REGULATION The Department of Business and Professional Regulation is the agency charged with licensing and regulating businesses and professionals in the State of Florida.
Contact the FDBPR for
inquiries relating to state licensing requirements for your business. Department of Business and Professional Regulation 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL 32399-1027 850.487.1395 www.myfloridalicense.com
19
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CareerSource Research Coast CareerSource Research Coast is chartered by the state of Florida to work with Martin County businesses to provide job placement, recruitment assistance and funds for skills training at no cost to the employers or jobseekers. Small businesses depend on the right labor talent and skills to be successful, so using the right
hiring
leveraging Coast
strategy the
is
important.
CareerSource
By
Research
team, the services provided can
increase a company’s
return on investment
by reducing hiring timelines and improving new hire retention rates. Services provided include: Recruiting □
At the local career center, or at company location
□
Job/Career Fairs—hiring events for all size groups
□
Internet job postings, including the Employ Fl o ri d a
s ta te w id e
www.employflorida.com 20
d a ta b a s e
–
Candidate Pre-Screening □
Identify qualified candidates
□
Maintain diverse pool of candidates
Assessments □
Match skills and determine aptitudes with industry-specific assessment tools
Funding/Training Incentives □
On-the-Job Training
□
Employed Worker Training
□
Work Experience Internship Program
Local Labor Market Information □
Identify local talent capabilities in the county
□
Extensive array of labor market sources and customized data
CareerSource Research Coast Martin County Career Center 710 S.E. Central Parkway Stuart, FL 34994 772.214.3174 www.careersourcerc.com
21
EMPLOYER REQUIREMENTS As
an
employer,
understanding
your
regulatory requirements is crucial to the success of your business. This guide provides ten easy steps for new employers to follow to ensure compliance with key federal, state and
local
regulations
when
hiring
employees. 1. Obtain
an
Employer
Identification
Number (EIN) - One of the first steps to establish and register your business is the application for a Federal Tax ID number from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. In addition to
reporting taxes, the EIN is
necessary when reporting information abut your employees to state agencies. U.S. Internal Revenue Service 800.829.4933 www.irs.gov 2. Set up Records for Withholding Taxes The IRS states that you must keep payroll at least four years. important
to
Therefore it is
establish
record-keeping system.
22
a
good
3. Florida Unemployment Tax Registration Businesses with employees are required to pay unemployment insurance taxes. Your business most likely will be liable for unemployment compensation tax if you paid $1,500 in wages in any calendar quarter, or if you employed at least one worker in any calendar quarter, or if you employed at least one worker during any 20 weeks in a calendar year. Employers liability also includes paying a quarterly
tax based on the gross
quarterly payroll for their employees. Florida Department of Revenue 5050 West Tennessee Street Tallahassee, FL 32399-0100
850.488.8422 www.myflorida.com/dor
23
4. Federal Income Tax Withholding (W-4) At the time of hiring, every employee must receive and return a withholding exemption certificate (Form W-4).
The
form specifies the amount of income tax to withhold from the employee’s pay and to submit to the IRS. U.S. Internal Revenue Service 800.829.4933 www.irs.gov
5. Workers Compensation Insurance “See Insurance Basics, Page 30” Florida Department of Financial Services Division of Workers’ Compensation 4415 Metro Parkway, #300 Fort Myers, FL 33916 239.938.1840 www.fldfs.com/wc
24
6. Employee Eligibility Verification (I-9) Federal
law
requires
employers
to
verify an employee’s eligibility to work in the United States. Within three days of of hire, employers must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification form (referred to as an I-9 Form) for each individual and be retained by the employer. U.S. Immigration and Customs www.uscis.gov
7. Register with the Florida New Hire Reporting Office The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 required all employers to report newly hired, re-hired and temporary (full-time and part-time) employees to a state directory within 20 days of their hire or rehire date. Florida New Hire Reporting Center P.O. Box 6500 Tallahassee, FL 32314 888.854.4791 www.fl-newhire.com 25
8. Safety and Health Regulations All
businesses
with
employees
are
required to comply with State and federal
regulations
protection
of
regarding
employees.
the OSHA
outlines specific health and safety standards adopted by the U.S. Dept. of Labor. Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration 813.626.1177 www.osha.gov/smallbusiness
9. Post Required Notices Employers are required by state and federal
laws
to
prominently
display
certain posters in the workplace that inform employees of their rights and employer
responsibilities
under
laws. www.business.usa.gov
26
labor
10. File Your Taxes Monthly and Quarterly Liabilities As
an
employer,
there
are
several
federal and state tax filing requirements that apply.
Businesses need to ensure
the proper calculation of taxes and liabilities. Each quarter, employers who pay wages subject to income tax withholding, social security and Medicare taxes must file IRS Form
941,
Employer’s
Quarterly
Tax
Return.
Additionally, employer’s must
file IRS
Form 940, Employer’s Annual Federal Unemployment (FUTA) Tax Return if you paid wages of $1,500 or more in any calendar quarter or you had one or more employees work for you in any 20 or more weeks of the year. Employer’s are also required to file quarterly Florida Unemployment Tax.
27
Federal Wage and Tax Statement (Form W-2) On an annual basis, employers must report to the federal government wages paid
and
taxes
withheld
for
each
employee. This report is filed using Form W-2,
Wage
and
Tax
Statement.
Employers must complete a Form W-2 for each employee to whom they pay a salary, wage or other compensation. Employers must send Copy A of Forms W-2 (Wage and Tax Statement) to the Social Security Administration (SSA) by the last day of February (or last day of March if you file electronically) to report the wages and taxes of your employees for the previous calendar year.
In
addition, employers should send copies of Form W-2 to their employees by January 31st of the year following the reporting period. Online tax resources: □
www.irs.gov Internal Revenue Service web portal
□
www.eftps.gov Electronic Federal Tax Payment System
□
www.myflorida.com/dor Florida Department of Revenue
□
www.ssa.gov U.S. Social Security Administration
28
INSURANCE BASICS
What insurance should my business have?
Property Insurance Property insurance compensates you if the property you use in your business is lost or damaged as the result of various types of common “perils” such as fire or theft. Property insurance covers not just a building or structure but also what insurers call “personal property,” meaning office furnishings,
inventory,
raw
materials,
machinery, computers and other items vital to your business operations. Property insurance can do more than protect your physical
assets. It may also provide
operating funds during a period when you are trying to get the business back on track
after
a
catastrophic
loss.
Depending on the type of policy you have, property insurance may include coverage
for
equipment
breakdown,
removal of debris after a fire or other destructive event, some types of water damage and other losses. 29
Liability Insurance Liability insurance, also called Commercial General
Liability
(CGL),
covers
four
categories of events for which you could be held responsible: bodily injury; damage to
others’
property,
personal
injury,
including slander and libel, and false or misleading advertising. CGL coverage pays for the injured party’s medical expenses. It excludes your employees, who
are
covered
by
workers’
compensation. Workers’ Compensation Insurance An
employer
must
have
workers’
compensation insurance when they have four
or
more
non-construction
employees industry
in
a
business.
Employers in the construction industry must have this insurance if they have one or
more
employees.
Agricultural
employers with five or more employees and/or 12 or more seasonal employees must
obtain
insurance.
workers’
compensation
Workers’ comp insurance, as
this coverage is generally called, pays for medical care and replaces a portion of lost wages for an employee who is injured in the course of employment, regardless of who was at fault for the injury.
30
Business Vehicle Insurance Personal auto insurance policies may exclude coverage if the vehicle involved in an accident is used mainly for business. A business auto policy provides coverage for autos owned by a business. The insurance pays any costs to third parties resulting from bodily injury or property damage for which your business is legally liable, up to the policy limits. Depending on what kind of coverage you buy, the insurance may pay to repair or replace your
vehicle
because
of
damage
resulting from accidents, theft, flooding and other events. Insurance for a Home Base Business An extremely small business, such as one operated by one or two people out of a home,
may
not
need
workers’
compensation insurance, but it often needs
more
property
and
liability
insurance than is provided in a typical homeowners policy. Florida Department of Financial Services www.myfloridacfo.com National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) www.insureuonline.org/smallbusiness 31
SMALL BUSINESS SERVICE PROVIDERS Business Development Board of Martin County 1002 SE Monterey Commons Blvd., Suite 203 Stuart, Florida 34996 772.221.1380 www.yesmartinfl.com The BDBMC is a public-private partnership working to promote balanced and orderly economic growth in Martin County. As
the
official
economic
development
organization for Martin County, the BDBMC is charged with the responsibility of
supporting
existing companies in their expansion and growth needs and attracting new companies to the community. The BDBMC is also the official partner of Enterprise
Florida,
Inc.,
the
state’s
economic development organization.
32
official
City of Stuart 121 S.W. Flagler Avenue Stuart, Florida 34994 772.288.5300 -www.cityofstuart.com
Corporate & Community Training Institute at Indian River State College 3209 Virginia Avenue Fort Pierce, Florida 34981 772.462.7630 www.cctiirsc.com CCTI provides professional management and employee
development
programs
which
contribute to an organization’s success and sustainability.
Training is provided by certified
industry-experienced professionals that meet stringent accreditation standards. Department of Economic Opportunity 107 East Madison Street Caldwell Building Tallahassee, Florida 32399-4120 850.245.7105 - www.floridajobs.org The
Florida
Department
of
Economic
Opportunity promotes economic opportunities for all Floridians, formulating and implementing successful
workforce,
community
economic development policies.
and
The agency
combines the state’s workforce and community development
efforts
to
help
expedite
economic development projects and to fuel job creation in communities.
33
Economic Council of Martin County 1002 S.E. Monterey Commons Blvd. Suite 201 Stuart, Florida 34996 772.288.1225 - www.mceconomy.org The Economic Council is a private, invitation only non-profit CEO organization with a focus of bringing
together
a
cross
section
county’s
business
and professional
Through
their
combined
of
the
leaders.
talents
and
resources, they assist in resolving problems facing Martin County’s economy and quality of life. Enterprise Florida 800 N. Magnolia Avenue Orlando, Florida 32803 407.956.5600 - www.eflorida.com Enterprise Florida is a public-private partnership serving
as
Florida’s
primary
organization
devoted to statewide economic development. Their goal is to facilitate job growth for Florida’s businesses and citizens leading to a vibrant statewide economy. Florida Atlantic University 777 Glades Road Boca Raton, Florida 33431 561.297.3000 - www.fau.edu Florida Atlantic University is built on a rich tradition as a teaching university, and is earning a reputation as
a top research institution in
areas ranging from biomedicine and biotechnology to ocean engineering and coastline security.
34
Florida Economic Gardening Institute 12201 Research Parkway Orlando, Florida 32826 407.823.6384 www.growfl.com Economic Gardening embraces strategies to grow existing second-stage businesses. innovative-entrepreneur
centered
It is an
economic
growth strategy that offers balance to the traditional
economic
practice
of
business
recruitment. Florida Virtual Entrepreneur Center www.flvec.com/martin The FLVEC is a free web portal designed to connect entrepreneurs with business support organizations as well as program and service providers who can support their new or growing business. Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at FAU 5600 US 1 North Fort Pierce, Florida 34946 772.242.2400 - www.fau.edu/hboi Harbor
Branch
offers
a
diverse
menu
of
educational opportunities for students, teachers and
the
public
engineering,
including
marine
aquaculture,
science,
degree
and
postdoctoral programs. Helping People Succeed, Inc. 1100 S.E. Federal Highway Stuart, Florida 34994 772.320.0770 - www.hpsfl.org HPS offers a broad array of employment services assisting individuals with special needs and forming partnerships with local employers.
35
Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce 11954 Southeast Dixie Highway Hobe Sound, Florida 33455 772.546.4724 - www.hobesound.org The chamber is organized to advance the general welfare and prosperity of the Hobe Sound area business community. Indian River State College 2400 SE Salerno Road Stuart, Florida 34997 772.419.5600 - www.irsc.edu IRSC has earned a statewide and nationwide reputation for excellence, offering over 150 programs
leading
to
Bachelor’s
Degrees,
Associate’s Degrees, Technical Certificates and Applied Technology Diplomas.
Indian River State College Business Incubator at Martin County 2400 SE Salerno Road Stuart, Florida 34997 772.462.7087 - www.irsc.edu The Business and Technology Incubator helps entrepreneurs companies
launch and
and
turn
build
successful
innovation
into
commercialization through an array of business support resources and services.
Amenities
include affordable furnished offices, high speed internet
access,
business
services
and
professional consulting services from IRSC and the SBDC.
36
Indiantown/Western Martin County Chamber of Commerce 15935 S.W. Warfield Boulevard Indiantown , Florida 34956 772.597.2184 - www.indiantownchamber.com The chamber is the premier business resource center in western Martin County providing a positive leadership role in the community of Indiantown..
As an advocate for this rural
community, the chamber plays a significant role in promoting business, connecting businesses and advocating for new business in order to enhance
the
economic
environment
and
quality of life for residents. Industrial Development Authority - Martin County 1002 S.E. Monterey Commons Blvd. Suite 203 Stuart, Florida 34996 772.221.1380 - www.bdbmc.org As a means to support economic development, the MCIDA provides access to tax exempt and taxable bond financing as an inducement to local, qualified companies. Jensen Beach Chamber of Commerce 1900 Ricou Terrace Jensen Beach, Florida 34958 772.334.3444 - www.jensenbeach.biz The chamber is the advocate and resource center for the development and success of the Jensen Beach business community.
37
Martin County Administration 2401 S.E. Monterey Road Stuart, Florida 34996 772.288.5400 - www.martin.fl.us
Martin County School District 500 East Ocean Blvd. Stuart, Florida 34994 772.219.1200 - www.martinschools.org The “Career Academies� in Martin County offer students the opportunity to get an early lead on a rewarding career path in a variety of professions. The curriculum for each career field is industry driven; the academic, technical and problem-solving skills for each program are applied to a relevant occupational focus, and workplace experience is an important part of every program. Career and Technical programs include Architecture, Auto Services, Carpentry, Culinary Arts, Engineering, Marketing, Network Support
Services
and
Veterinary
Assisting.
Marine Industries Association of the Treasure Coast P.O. Box 1639 Stuart, Florida 34995 772.692.7599 - www.miatc.com MIATC
is
a
not-for-profit
trade
association
comprised of members from the Treasure Coast communities
who
are
dedicated
to
the
promotion of pleasure boating and its related industries through education of members and the boating public.
38
Palm City Chamber of Commerce 880 S.W. Martin Downs Boulevard Palm City, Florida 34990 772.286.8121 - www.palmcitychamber.com The chamber serves as the principal advocate of the Palm City community and its businesses, acting as the catalyst in promoting economic development
of
the
Palm
City
area,
stimulating jobs and improving the quality of life. The Palm City Chamber of Commerce oversees the Adopt-A-Class program, one of the most s u c c e s sf ul
p r o gr a m s
for
a c a d em i c
enhancement in Martin County, raising over $1,000,000 during the past 20 years.
Realtor Association of Martin County 43 SW Monterey Road Stuart, Florida 34994 772.283.1748 - www.ramconline.org Established in 1926, the Realtor Association of Martin County (then called Stuart Board of Real Estate) was founded by ten brokers who were operating without professional resources such as industry contacts, educational opportunities or legislative influence. The purpose of the organization is to enhance the ability and opportunity of its members to conduct
their
business
successfully
and
ethically; and to promote and preserve the right to own, transfer and use real property.
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SCORE - Treasure Coast Chapter 3220 South U.S. Highway 1, Ste. #2 Fort Pierce, FL 34982 772.489-0548 www.treasurecoast.score.org SCORE is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and helping small businesses start, grow and succeed.
SCORE
delivers counseling, training and assistance to help businesses succeed, and create a positive impact for our community. Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce 1650 S. Kanner Highway Stuart, Florida 34997 772.287.1088 www.stuartmartinchamber.org The chamber plays a significant role in the growth, business climate and economy of our community.
As the voice of the business
community, the chamber unites, informs and represents Martin County small businesses. It also provides leadership on economic and
political issues and promotes a healthy and progressive business climate. Treasure Coast Builder’s Association 6560 South Federal Highway Stuart, Florida 34952 772.287.7795 www.treasurecoastba.com The Treasure Coast Builders Association is a professional association protecting the interests of the building industry with representation from Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River and Okeechobee Counties.
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U.S. Commercial Service 1850 Eller Drive, Suite 401 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316 954.356.6640 - www.export.gov The U.S. Commercial Service is the trade promotion arm of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. U.S. Commercial Service trade professionals in over 100 U.S. cities and in more than 75 countries help U.S. companies get started in exporting or increase sales to new global markets. U.S. Small Business Administration 505 South 2nd Street, Suite 225 Fort Pierce, Florida 34950 772.466.1944 - www.sba.gov The SBA is an agency of the federal government to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small businesses, preserve free competitive enterprise and strengthen the economy. CareerSource Research Coast 710 SE Central Parkway Stuart, Florida 34994 772.214.3174 www.careersourcerc.com CareerSource Research Coast is a private, nonprofit organization and chartered by the State of Florida to create and manage a workforce development
service
delivery
system.
CareerSource Research Coast is responsive to the needs of businesses and job seekers through different gateways including a virtual network, career centers, mobile career centers and community based partnerships.
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State of Florida BUSINESS ASSISTANCE INCENTIVE PROGRAMS TARGETED INDUSTRY INCENTIVES
Qualified Target Industry Tax Refund (QTI) Available for companies that create high-wage jobs in targeted high value-added industries. This incentive includes refunds on corporate income, sales, ad valorem, tangible personal property, insurance premium and certain other taxes. Qualified Defense and Space Contractor Tax Refund (QDSC) Offers Florida defense, Homeland Security and space business contractors a competitive edge in
consolidating
contracts
or
subcontracts,
acquiring new contracts or converting contracts to commercial production. Companies receive tax refunds for job creation. Capital Investment Tax Credit (CITC) An annual credit, provided for up to 20 years, against corporate income tax. Eligible projects are those in designated high-impact portions of the following sectors: clean energy, biomedical technology, technology,
financial
services,
transportation
manufacturing or
corporate
facility.
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information equipment headquarters
High Impact Performance Incentive Grant (HIPI) A negotiated grant used to attract and grow major high impact facilities in Florida. In order to participate in the program, the project must operate within designated high-impact portions of
the
following
sectors:
clean
energy,
biomedical technology, financial services, silicon technology
and
transportation
equipment
manufacturing, or it must be a corporate headquarters facility supporting international, national or regional operations; create at least 100 new, full-time equivalent jobs (if a R&D facility,
create
at
least
75
new
full-time
equivalent jobs) in Florida in a three-year period; and make a cumulative investment in the state of at least $100 million (if a R&D facility, make a cumulative investment of at least $75 million) in a three-year period.
Economic Development Transportation Fund The
Economic
Development
Transportation
Fund, commonly referred to as the "Road Fund," is an incentive tool designed to alleviate transportation problems that adversely impact a specific
company's
location
or
expansion
decision. The award amount is based on the number of new and retained jobs and the eligible transportation project costs, up to $3 million.
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Machinery & Equipment Sales Tax Exemption Machinery and Equipment purchased by new or expanding
businesses
that
use
such
equipment at a fixed location to manufacture, process,
compound
or
produce
tangible
personal property for sale is tax exempt.
Research & Development Sales Tax Exemption The Sales and Use Tax Exemption on Machinery and
Equipment
Development
is
Used
for
Research
available
to
help
and foster
innovation throughout the state. Under this exemption, machinery and equipment used predominantly for research and development are
exempt
from
sales
and
use
tax.
Clean Energy Incentives Improved
real
property
upon
which
a
renewable energy source device is installed and operated is eligible for an exemption in the amount of the original cost of the device, including the installation cost.
Clean energy
incentives are available to companies looking to
generate
renewable
energy
or
manufacturing energy efficient or renewable energy products and technologies and for those who want to integrate into their production process.
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Solar Energy Systems Equipment Sales Tax Exemption Solar energy systems have been exempt from Florida’s sales and use tax since July 1, 1997. The term
“solar
energy
system”
means
the
equipment and requisite hardware that provide and
are
used
for
collecting,
transferring,
converting, storing or using incidental solar energy for water heating, space heating and cooling
or
other
applications
that
would
otherwise require the use of a conventional source of energy such as petroleum products, natural gas, manufactured gas or electricity. Aviation Tax Exemptions Aviation tax exemptions include maintenance or repair of aircraft, equipment used in repair or maintenance of aircraft and fixed wing aircraft lease or sales. Electricity and Steam Sales Tax Exemption Charges
for
electricity
used
directly
and
exclusively at a fixed location to operate machinery and equipment that is used to manufacture, process, compound or produce items of tangible personal property for sale. Or to
operate
recycling equipment.
pollution equipment
control or
equipment,
maintenance
Monitoring or control equipment
used in such operations may be exempt from the sales tax.
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Florida Power & Light — Economic Development Rate FPL offers discounted electric service rates for new or
expanding businesses that add a
minimum level of new electric load and new jobs;
a
higher
incentive
is
available
for
businesses locating in commercial or industrial space that has been vacant for more than six months.
WORKFORCE TRAINING INCENTIVES Quick Response Training Program (QRT) Provides funding for customized training to new or expanding businesses creating new highquality jobs. The grants are structured to be flexible and "respond quickly" to meet the business’s training objectives. Incumbent Worker Training Program (IWT) The Incumbent Worker Training (IWT) grants provide funding for training to existing for-profit businesses. Through this grant, businesses are able to stay competitive by supporting skillsupgrade training for existing full-time employees. Each grant is structured to be flexible to meet the business’s training objectives utilizing public or private training providers or in-house training providers, based on the nature of the training.
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SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY INCENTIVES (Indiantown) Enterprise Zone Incentives Florida offers an assortment of tax incentives to businesses that choose to create employment within an enterprise zone; a specific geographic area targeted for economic revitalization.
In
2011, Indiantown received Martin County’s only Enterprise Zone designation.
Indiantown’s Enterprise Zone Map - 9.66 miles
The incentives in the enterprise zone include sales and use tax credits, sales tax refund on the purchase of business machinery, equipment and building materials, and a sales tax exemption for electrical energy. For more information on Indiantown’s Enterprise Zone, please visit www.itown.yesmartinfl.com.
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Martin County BUSINESS ASSISTANCE INCENTIVE PROGRAMS
Martin County Opportunity Fund (MCOF) The Martin County Opportunity Fund is a “dealclosure” program and may include anything of value to make a project happen ie: cash, land, lease concession or funds to leverage other state/federal funds like SBIR/STTR grants. Martin County Job Creation Grant (MCJCG) The Martin County Job Creation Grant is similar to the Qualified Target Industry (QTI) Tax Refund program
at
the
state
level,
and
when
applicable, will be the source of matching funds for QTI benefits. This grant rewards businesses for job creation
and is paid out over 4 years
according to the following tiers based on percentage of average wage paid:
100% of average wage = $2,000/job equating to 5.4% of the average wage paid
115% of average wage = $3,000/job equating to 7.0% of the average wage paid
150% of average wage = $4,000/job equating to 7.2% of the average wage paid
200% of average wage = $5,000/job equating to 6.7% of the average wage paid
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Ad Valorem Tax Abatement A new or expanding business may apply for an "economic exemption" for improvements to real property not already on the Martin County Tax Roll. The applicant must create and maintain a required number of full time jobs, and the project must have a positive impact on the local economy. Expedited Permitting Encourages new businesses to relocate in Martin County by assisting qualified projects with a fast-tracked
permitting
process.
Expedited
permitting also assists existing companies expand their operations. Impact Fee and Building Permit Fee Mitigation The
Impact
Fee
and
Building
Permit
Fee
Mitigation program is intended to encourage economic opportunities and business expansion as a means to help create jobs and the reuse of vacant or underutilized commercial/industrial space.
Applications must create and maintain
a required number of full time jobs and average wage, and/or a required capital investment. L-STAR Ordinance Life , Science, Technology and Research Facilities
The L-STAR ordinance was created to provide alternatives
for,
and
expedited
development or expansion
review
of,
of new or existing
targeted businesses. Targeted industries include life sciences, technology, and research industry sectors.
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COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA) Martin County Community Redevelopment Agency The Martin County Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was established to attract private sector
investment
and
promote
economic
growth and activity within the boundaries of Martin
County’s
seven
community
redevelopment areas. The seven CRA areas in Martin County include Jensen Beach, Rio, Golden Gate, Port Salerno, Hobe Sound, Old Palm City and Indiantown. Each of the CRA areas have a Neighborhood Advisory Committee (NAC) to conduct outreach and
facilitate
implementation
of
the
redevelopment plan in their community. To learn about the benefits of locating in a CRA area and current projects, please contact: Martin County Community Redevelopment Agency 2401 SE Monterey Road Stuart, Florida 34996 772.288.5400 www.nowvisioning.com
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City of Stuart Community Redevelopment Agency The City of Stuart Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) encompasses approximately 694 acres both north and south of the Roosevelt Bridge. The northern CRA area includes the “Haney Creek”
conservation
proposed
mixed-use
“Avonlea”. two
area
as
well
development
as
the
called
The southern CRA area includes
historic
business
districts
downtown,
neighborhoods such as Frazier Addition and Potsdam and commercial properties along East Ocean Boulevard, Colorado Avenue and the East Stuart area. Stuart’s
two
historic
business
districts
are
represented by two main street programs - Stuart Main Street and East Stuart Main Street. These two neighbors maintain their unique identities while working together with the CRA to create a brighter future for all of Stuart. To learn about the benefits of locating in one of the historic business districts or CRA areas, please contact: City of Stuart Community Redevelopment Agency 121 SW Flagler Avenue Stuart, Florida 34994 772.288.5300 www.cityofstuart.com
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CONTACT INFORMATION
24 HOUR EMERGENCY NUMBERS Sheriff, Fire, Medical Emergencies ……………...911 211 Information & Crisis Services…………………211 Poison Hotline…………………………1-800-222-1222
A Administration - Martin County……………320-3200
B Better Business Bureau…………………703-276-0100 Building Department………………………………….. Martin County………………………..288-5916 City of Stuart………………………….288-5326 Business Development Board……………...221-1380 Business Tax Receipts (Occupational Licenses)………….. Martin County ▪ Issue/Renewal/Home Based…288-5600 ▪ Contractor Licensing…………..288-5482 City of Stuart...………..……………..288-5319
C Certificate of Occupancy.…………………………… Martin County……………………….288-5489 City of Stuart…………………………288-5326 Chambers of Commerce…………………………….. Stuart/Martin County……………….287-1088 Palm City……………………………...288-8121 Indiantown…………………………...597-2184 Hobe Sound………………………….546-4724 Jensen Beach………………………..334-3444
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City of Stuart……………………………………288-5300 Community Redevelopment…………………………. Martin County……………….………..288-5921 City of Stuart…………………………..283-2532 Convention & Visitors Bureau………….……288-5451
D DEO (Department of Economic Opportunity) …..850-245-7105
E Economic Council of Martin County……...288-1225 Enterprise Florida…………………………407-956-5600
F Florida Atlantic University……………….561-297-3000 Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Licensing……………….850-488-2221 Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Licensing…………..850-487-1395 Florida Department of New Hire Reporting Center …………………………….850-854-4791 Florida Department of Revenue..…….850-352-3671 Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations……………………..850-245-6052 FPL Emergencies………………………………287-5400
G Garbage/Trash Pick Up……………………………..…. Martin County.………….…….546-7700 Indiantown (Western MC)….597-3755 City of Stuart…………………..288-5337 GrowFL– Economic Gardening……….407-823-6384 Growth Management Department….……………… Martin County………………………...288-5495 City of Stuart…………………………..288-5375
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H Harbor Branch at FAU…………………...772-242-2400 Helping People Succeed…………………....320-0770 Hurricane & Disaster Preparedness………..287-1652
I Indian River State College…………………..462-7630 Industrial Development Authority……...…..221-1380 Internal Revenue Service……………….800-829-4933
L Library - Stuart/Blake Main Branch………....288-5702
M Marine Industries of the Treasure Coast…..692-7599
P Property Appraiser’s Office………………….288-5608
R Realtor Association of Martin County……..283-1748
S SCORE - Treasure Coast……………………...489-0548 Small Business Development Center………419-5690
T Tax Collector’s Office………………………...288-5595 Treasure Coast Builders Association……….287-7795
U U.S. Commercial Service………………..954-356-6640 U.S. Copyright Office…………………….202-707-5959 U.S. Patent and Trademark…….……….800-786-9199 U.S. Small Business Administration……..772-466-1944
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Utilities and Solid Waste Department.………………... Martin County…………………………221-1434 City of Stuart…………………………...288-5317 South Martin Regional Utilities……...546-2511
W Wastewater Management……………………………... Martin County…………………………221-1442 City of Stuart…………………………...288-5343 Water Service……………………………………………… Martin County…………………………221-1442 City of Stuart…………………………...288-5317 South Martin Regional Utilities Workforce Solutions……………...……………214-3174 PLEASE… KEEP THIS EMERGENCY INFORMATION to maintain communication during emergency situations and recovery efforts
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Small businesses like yours are vital to our community, providing the majority of the economic and employment opportunities to the people who live and work here. The Business Development Board of Martin County is committed to supporting the vitality of our small business community, with access to business information, resources and expertise.
We have developed this small business guide to provide you with at-a-glance information about the services and solutions available to help your business needs. Whether starting a new business or growing an existing one, we invite you to explore the wealth of resources available to you here in Martin County.
The BDBMC is funded in part by the Martin County, Florida Board of County Commissioners.