Celebrating small business and entrepreneurship at Seminole State College

As fall brings fresh flavors and slightly cooler temperatures (even in Central Florida), it’s also the perfect season to celebrate small business and entrepreneurship. For more than 25 years, the Center for Business Development at Seminole State College of Florida has supported Seminole County entrepreneurs with no-cost resources, training programs, affordable office space and one-on-one consulting.

Business Incubation Program

The College’s Business Incubation Program helps early-stage companies grow into financially stable, high-impact enterprises. Through consultation services, coaching, shared resources and office facilities, the program fosters entrepreneurial development that drives job creation and contributes to the region’s economic growth.

“The Business Incubation Program is currently at 100% occupancy, with 24 unique businesses across 30 offices — a testament to the demand and impact of these resources,” says Amy Kirkland, associate vice president of Resource & Economic Development. Kirkland is also the recipient of the Seminole Business Award 2025, recognizing exceptional businesses and visionary leadership shaping the local economy.

ELLE Collective Celebrates Women Entrepreneurs

ELLE Collective accelerates women-owned businesses by providing networking, mentorship, and educational opportunities at no cost. The initiative strengthens women’s impact on the economy by creating jobs, fueling growth and building strong communities. There is no cost to join ELLE Collective. Services are supported by Seminole State College.

On Oct. 14 at 5 p.m., ELLE Collective will host Stories of Resilience: Celebrating National Women’s Small Business Month, featuring a panel of successful women business owners sharing how they overcame challenges and turned setbacks into opportunities.

For event registration and to join ELLE Collective, visit ellecollective.org.

Welcome Jessica Rosario-Fortis, SBDC Director

The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Seminole State College provides essential support to entrepreneurs across Seminole County.

Jessica Rosario-Fortis joins the College as the new SBDC Director, bringing over 25 years of leadership experience in corporate and entrepreneurial sectors. As co-owner of a high-compliance janitorial service, she scaled the business into a multi-six-figure enterprise serving healthcare, education, and corporate clients throughout Central Florida.

A graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando’s Supplier Diversity Capacity Building Program, Rosario-Fortis was also nominated for the Don Quijote Hispanic Business Enterprise of the Year Award.

"The right guidance at the right time can make all the difference for a growing business. Focus on building strong systems, understanding your market and seeking resources that help you scale sustainably," recommends Rosario-Fortis.

Her firsthand experience gives her a deep appreciation for the power of the right guidance at the right time. With a strong foundation in leadership development and community engagement, she is committed to serving Florida's small business community with excellence, empathy and intentional strategy.

Learn More

For more information about the Center for Business Development at Seminole State College, visit seminolestate.edu/cbd.