Top Resources for Startups and Entrepreneurs in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
Launching a business in paradise? You’re not alone. Santa Rosa Beach and the surrounding Northwest Florida region offer more than just scenic beauty. The panhandle is home to a growing ecosystem of support for startups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re building a new business from the ground up or looking to grow your existing one, there are a number of affordable (and even free) resources that can help.
From expert mentorship and capital access to coworking spaces and workforce programs, we’ve compiled a list of top resources available to startups and entrepreneurs along 30A in Santa Rosa Beach, FL.
Florida SBDC at the University of West Florida
Looking for expert business guidance at no cost? The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UWF offers no-cost consulting and training for entrepreneurs in Walton County. With certified business consultants on staff, the SBDC helps with everything from business planning and financial analysis to marketing strategy and funding preparation. The SBDC is great for startups because it offers expert guidance without the price tag. Funded by the SBA and State of Florida, it’s one of the most accessible and comprehensive resources for new business owners.
SCORE Mentors—Northwest Florida
Looking for mentorship from experienced professionals? SCORE is a national nonprofit that pairs entrepreneurs with experienced mentors for one-on-one coaching and business advice, all at no cost. Supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration, SCORE offers free virtual and in-person mentorship sessions, plus educational webinars and workshops. SCORE is great for startups because it allows business owners and entrepreneurs to tap into decades of experience across a wide range of industries. Whether you need help refining a business model or exploring funding options, there’s a mentor for that.
Walton Area Chamber of Commerce
Looking to get plugged in to the local business community? The Walton Area Chamber of Commerce is a go-to hub for connecting with other professionals and promoting your business locally. The Chamber hosts networking events like Business After Hours, provides mentorship programs through Mentoring Emerald Coast, and supports young professionals with educational opportunities. Local chambers are great for startups as they provide opportunities for you to build your local network, promote your business, and plug in to a supportive business community.
CareerSource Okaloosa Walton
Looking for recruiting and training support for your business? CareerSource is a regional workforce development agency offering free services to help small businesses hire and train employees. Services include job postings, access to qualified candidates, training grants, and HR support. CareerSource is great for startups because it gives you help finding top talent and allows you to access training assistance without the added expense. Perfect for growing your team efficiently.
Florida State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)
Looking for funding options to grow your business? The SSBCI is a statewide initiative that helps startups and small businesses access capital through a mix of loan and venture capital programs. Florida has allocated over $142 million to help businesses that may not qualify for traditional loans. The Florida SSBCI is great for startups because it provides flexible financing options, from loan guarantees to early-stage investment, designed to fuel business growth.
Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) at Gulf Coast State College
Looking for veteran-focused business support? Located in nearby Panama City through Gulf Coast State College, the VBOC offers no-cost business training, mentoring, and assistance specifically for veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs. Services include business planning, SBA program navigation, and transition support through programs like Boots to Business. The VBOC is great for startups as they provide tailored resources for veteran entrepreneurs with dedicated advisors who understand the unique challenges of military life.
1 Million Cups—Pensacola
Looking to meet like-minded business owners over coffee? Supported by the Kauffman Foundation, 1 Million Cups is a monthly event where entrepreneurs share their business ideas and receive feedback from a community of peers. While Pensacola is the closest chapter, these gatherings offer excellent networking and learning opportunities. Interested in 1 Million Cups but can’t make it to Pensacola? You can start a 1 Million Cups Community in Walton County. 1 Million Cups is great for startups as it will allow you opportunity to get feedback, build connections, and stay motivated in a casual, founder-friendly setting.
30A Flexspace (Coworking Facility)
Looking for flexible office space in Santa Rosa Beach? Located right here in Santa Rosa Beach, 30A Flexspace is a modern coworking center offering flex desks, private offices, conference room rentals, and virtual office options. With short-term lease flexibility and inclusive amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, printing, and coffee—it’s the perfect workspace for startups and solo entrepreneurs. 30A Flexspace is great for startups as it gives you professional office space without the long-term lease. Whether you need a day desk or a permanent office, 30A Flexspace grows with your business.
Santa Rosa Beach isn’t just a beautiful place to live—it’s also a smart place to launch your business. From free mentorship and training to scalable office space and funding support, entrepreneurs have access to a wide range of tools to succeed.
At 30A Flexspace, we’re proud to be part of this thriving startup ecosystem. Whether you’re just getting started or scaling your business, we invite you to tour our space and see how we can support your entrepreneurial journey.