“Big” help is on the way for persons seeking assistance understanding the City-related processes and requirements for operating a small business in Jacksonville. In observance of National Small Business Week (April 30 – May 6), the City of Jacksonville is announcing this new resource.
 

“Starting a business can be complex,” said Mayor Lenny Curry. “There is a lot of information new entrepreneurs need to know to ensure they are meeting City requirements and ordinances allowing them to operate safely and efficiently. I am pleased that we can provide support to our local business owners to help make this process easier, getting them up and running faster.”
 

One of the biggest challenges for new business owners is navigating code compliance, especially when it comes to choosing and preparing a facility in which to operate their business. Business facilities are required to be located in an appropriate zoning district based on its operations and services. Additionally, the facility must pass specific code inspections to obtain proper permitting and certifications ensuring the facility’s safety. The City is launching one-on-one help sessions led by City of Jacksonville experts that will offer new business owners the resources and tools needed to better understand the ordinances, expectations, processes and documentation necessary for safely and efficiently operating a business in Jacksonville.
 

Persons interested in registering for a half-hour consultation should complete the online form at http://www.coj.net/smallbizhelp. These individual consultations are scheduled by appointment only. Participants are encouraged to bring and share site plans, leases, occupancy information and any other materials for review.
 

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, more than half of Americans either own or work for a small business creating two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. Since 1963, our nation has celebrated National Small Business Week