Frequently Asked Questions

No. Consulting services provided by the Florida SBDC at FAMU are confidential and offered at no cost to business owners and entrepreneurs. As part of the Florida SBDC Network and supported by Florida A&M University, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and valued partners, we are able to deliver professional, one-on-one business guidance without charging consulting fees. Some specialized training programs or events may have a registration fee, but most core services are provided at no cost.

Getting started is simple. Business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs can request consulting directly through our website (/business-consulting)or contact our office at (850) 599-3407 to schedule an initial appointment. After submitting a request, you will be connected with a certified business consultant who will assess your goals and develop a customized plan to support your business. Whether you're starting a new venture or growing an existing company, we’re here to help you take the next step.

The SBDC at FAMU provides services in a nondiscriminatory manner to all legal residents and citizens of the United States. When completing the request form, please enter the name of the business for which you are seeking assistance, not your current employer’s name (unless that employer is the business receiving consulting services). Providing accurate and complete information allows us to match you with the consultant best suited to support your needs.

After submitting your consulting request, a member of our team will contact you to begin the intake process. You will be matched with a certified business consultant based on your goals and business needs. Your first session will focus on understanding your objectives, current challenges, and opportunities. Together, you will develop a customized action plan designed to provide practical, results-driven guidance. All consulting services are confidential.

We provide confidential, no-cost business consulting and training to entrepreneurs and business owners across Leon, Gadsden, Jefferson, Franklin, Liberty, Madison, Taylor, and Wakulla counties. The SBDC at FAMU supports regional economic development by helping businesses start, grow, access capital, and build long-term sustainability.

No. The SBDC at FAMU does not lend money or administer grants. Instead, we help businesses prepare for financing by developing lender-ready documentation, strengthening financial projections, and improving overall capital readiness. Many lenders value SBDC-prepared clients and encourage consultation prior to loan application.

We maintain strong relationships with local banks, chambers of commerce, economic development agencies, and corporate partners. By preparing businesses before they seek capital or expansion, we help reduce risk, streamline processes, and strengthen the regional business ecosystem.

We serve startups, early-stage companies, and established businesses across a wide range of industries. Our clients include aspiring entrepreneurs, growth-focused small businesses, manufacturers, service providers, and companies pursuing government contracting opportunities.

Partnership with the SBDC at FAMU allows your organization to directly support small business growth and community revitalization in North Florida. Our partners gain visibility, collaborative opportunities, and access to well-prepared businesses that are better positioned for financing, contracting, and expansion.

Organizations interested in partnering with the SBDC at FAMU can connect with our office to explore sponsorships, program support, training collaborations, and community initiatives that promote entrepreneurship and economic growth throughout North Florida.