The FSBDCN is one of eight original SBDC pilot programs. Funded in 1976 by the US Small Business Administration (SBA), the program successfully links the state's education system with community outreach to aid in the development and education of the state's entrepreneurs and small business community.

Starting with only two service centers in the first year of operation, the FSBDCN has grown to a statewide network of 30 plus centers involving universities, colleges and other economic development partner organizations. Additional outreach is provided at approximately 60 circuit rider locations utilizing resource partners such as chambers of commerce, economic development councils, banks, etc. Today, the FSBDCN is one of 63 SBA-funded SBDC programs, with locations in every state and US territory.

As the only statewide provider of entrepreneurial services, the FSBDCN plays a vital role in Florida’s economic development initiatives by:

  • assisting entrepreneurs in all stages of business, from prospective entrepreneurs to mature businesses looking for growth opportunities;
  • working with firms in all industry sectors; utilizing the expertise and resources of some of the best colleges and universities in Florida;
  • accessing the resources of a national network of more than 1,000 centers;
  • administering the State Small Business Advocate and Small Business Regulatory Advisory Council under the state’s business regulatory relief act; and
  • accrediting nationally through the Association of SBDCs by Congressional mandate.
The synergistic effect of this partnership program has resulted in many years of positive revenue growth for the state, an impressive FSBDCN return on investment and multiplied success for Florida’s small business community. The foundation of Florida’s economy is small business (99%), and the Florida SBDC Network is their Principal Provider of Small Business Assistance as designated by state statute.

Since its inception, the FSBDCN has counseled 371,382 small business owners and entrepreneurs with 1,664,169 hours of one-on-one counseling, conducted 33,008 business training events for 695,174 participants, and provided answers to 2,615,481 requests for information.

In 2009, Florida’s SBDCs helped its clients open 824 businesses; create or retain 14,550 jobs; win contract awards worth $375 million; acquire $60 million in capital for business formation and expansion; and enjoy sales growth worth $212 million.