Florida
Small business grants & funding for felons in Florida
Florida's reentry population is among the largest in the country, and the state's CDFI and nonprofit ecosystem has expanded fast to meet entrepreneur demand. These are the strongest starting points for a Florida founder with a record.
Capital & program directory
- Visit
Operation New Hope — Ready4Work
Operation New Hope
- Type
- Reentry services
- Amount
- Free training + job placement + microgrants
Jacksonville-based reentry org with a self-employment track and small startup grants for graduates launching businesses.
- Visit
Black Business Investment Fund (BBIF)
BBIF Florida
- Type
- Loan
- Amount
- $5,000 – $250,000
Statewide CDFI lending to minority and underbanked entrepreneurs. Character-based underwriting; has funded multiple justice-impacted founders.
- Visit
Florida Rights Restoration Coalition
FRRC
- Type
- Program
- Amount
- Free legal + entrepreneurship resources
Restores civil rights and connects members to small business mentorship and capital partners across Florida.
- Visit
Accion Opportunity Fund (Florida)
Accion Opportunity Fund
- Type
- Loan
- Amount
- $5,000 – $250,000
National CDFI actively lending in Florida with explicit fair-chance underwriting policies.
FAQ — Florida
Are there state grants for felons starting a business in Florida?
Florida does not run a state grant program reserved for justice-impacted founders. The most reliable path is a CDFI microloan (BBIF, Accion) combined with the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition's mentorship and a Work Opportunity Tax Credit for any employees you hire from the same population.
Which occupational licenses can a felon get in Florida?
Florida's 2019 occupational licensing reform (HB 7125) removed many categorical bars. Most trades, cosmetology, and contracting licenses are now available with full disclosure; some healthcare and security licenses still require waivers.