Planning to attend Miramar’s entrepreneur workshops? What to know before you go

If you want to open a small business in Miramar or bid for city contracts, here’s a gift.

Next week, the City of Miramar is giving entrepreneurs a direct path to make that happen.

Those wishing to open a business, seeking to land city contracts or access grant funding will have an opportunity to learn the steps April 7-8 as Miramar officials host free workshops designed to connect business owners with city leaders.

The sessions, titled “How to Do Business with the City of Miramar,” will feature Commissioner Yvette Colbourne and are aimed at helping small businesses understand how to work with city government.

Organizers say the workshops will cover the city’s procurement process, explain available grants and resources, and introduce business owners to community partners who can help support growth.

The events are also designed to give entrepreneurs a chance to network with other local business owners while learning how to position their companies for potential city contracts.

For anyone who hasn’t navigated municipal procurement before, this is a low-risk way to learn the process with direct access to the people who make decisions.

As Miramar prepares to host these workshops aimed at helping local entrepreneurs navigate the process, officials say these are some of the most common mistakes that new business owners make:

What you need to know before you go

Don’t skip zoning approval

Before opening a business, owners must make sure the location is properly zoned for their type of operation. In Miramar, that typically requires obtaining a Certificate of Use, which confirms the business is allowed to operate at that address.

Opening without zoning approval can delay the process or require the business to relocate. If you’ve already signed a lease on a space, discovering a zoning issue after the fact could cost you time and money.

Get your city business tax receipt

All businesses operating in Miramar — including home-based businesses — must obtain a City Business Tax Receipt, formerly known as an occupational license. Some entrepreneurs mistakenly believe registering with the state is enough.

Without the city tax receipt, a business cannot legally operate. This is a step that catches many first-time business owners off guard, so take care of it early in the process.

Register your business with the state

Entrepreneurs must register their business entity with the Florida Division of Corporations, often called Sunbiz, before conducting business. This step establishes whether the company will operate as a corporation, limited liability company, partnership or sole proprietorship.

This is foundational paperwork. Without it, you can’t move forward with city or county permits.

Don’t overlook required industry licenses

Certain professions — including contractors, salons, food establishments and medical services — require additional licenses or permits from state or county agencies. Failing to obtain the proper license can lead to fines or closure.

If your business falls into a regulated industry, check with the appropriate licensing body before you open your doors.

Grants from the city

Miramar offers grants, guidance and networking opportunities for local businesses, but many entrepreneurs don’t realize these resources exist.

City officials say attending business workshops or contacting the city’s economic development office can help owners understand available programs before they launch. The upcoming workshops are built specifically for this purpose.

How to register for the workshops

City officials say the events will include refreshments and encourage business owners to register in advance online at businessinmiramar.eventbrite.com. Space may be limited.

Registering early ensures your spot and helps organizers plan accordingly. For more information, contact Johnie Douglas at jldouglas@miramarfl.gov or 954-602-3269.

This report was produced with the assistance of a proprietary tool powered by artificial intelligence and using our own originally reported, written and published content. It was reviewed and edited by our journalists.

This story was originally published April 2, 2026 at 5:00 AM.