Start Something That Matters

If you’ve got an idea and the drive to make it real, Citrus County has your back. We know small businesses power strong economies, and we treat entrepreneurs like the job creators they are. Whether you’re just sketching out a plan or ready to open your doors, we’ll help you move forward — with real support and people who care.

What It Takes — and Who Can Help

You don’t need to figure it out alone. Citrus County has tools that actually work, and partners who know what they’re doing.

1. Know Where You Stand

Use the CORE Business Roadmap to check zoning, business license requirements, and which city or county office you need to talk to.

 Core Business Roadmap

2. Handle the Paperwork

  • Get your FEIN
  • Register your DBA or LLC
  • Check for any state licenses or inspections
  • Obtain your Local Business Tax Receipt - application and instructions
  • Ask about a pre-application meeting before investing in a location—it can save you time and money

3. Connect With People Who’ve Done This Before

  • CORE offers free one-on-one help, website guidance, marketing tips, and more
  • CareerSource CLM helps with workforce planning even if you’re still in early stages

4. Look Into Funding Options

  • Florida’s Emergency Bridge Loan Program offers zero-interest loans to businesses affected by disasters
  • USDA’s Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program has small loans and technical support for rural startups

These aren’t guaranteed, but we’ll help you understand what’s available and what fits

woman standing next to open sign
Why Entrepreneurs Choose Citrus
  • It’s affordable, connected, and growing
  • You don’t have to wait weeks for a callback — our team answers the phone
  • People want you here — and they show it with action, not just words
  • Local leaders invest in infrastructure, like the $2.8M sewer expansion for Holder Industrial Park — because future growth matters

Tell Us What You’re Building

Whether it’s a startup, a side hustle, or your next big move, we’ll help you make it real.

Launch with Confidence

Tell Us What You’re Building

Whether it’s a startup, a side hustle, or your next big move, we’ll help you make it real.

Launch with Confidence