I want to open a security company in the state of Florida, what info do I need?

Question

So far I got the manager application and another application from the state departmentment. I realize I will need money to rent an office. But how do I get contacts in order to get the contracts that I need? Where do I go to get uniforms for employee? What will banks and private investors ask of me? I know good credit will help but what else? I will have aleast 4k but how much money do I need realistically to get it started. How can S.B.A. help me? Can I receive a grant to open my business? If so where do I get the contact info to reach those grant writers?

Answer 1

As far as business information, set up a meeting with the local small business development center (Google search to find the office nearest you).

Grants may be problematic ...

There are essentially only 4 sources for grants. A little known fact it that you do NOT have to be a non-profit to get a grant, regardless of what others tell you ... I've helped for-profits apply for grants.

Federal grants are called Small Business Innovation Research grants. These are given primarily for some new innovation. You can find out what's available at:
http://www.sbirworld.com
There is also info on this site about how to apply.

Some cities offer grants to small businesses if they will locate in the downtown area, for the purposes of building up downtown traffic. Check with City Hall.

There are some governemnt grants for minority businesses. You can find info at:
http://www.mbda.gov

Finally, private foundations offer grants. You can get a list of most US Foundations and private grant sources at http://www.foundations.org/grantmakers.html.