Tallahassee Among Top 15 Metros Nationally for Black-Owned Businesses  

According to the 2023 Annual Business Survey (ABS) published in December 2024 by the U.S. Census Bureau, the Tallahassee Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) ranks #14 nationally for the highest percentage of Black-owned businesses. The ABS, which reflects data from 2022, found approximately 7,828 employer firms in the Tallahassee MSA, of which 549 (7%) were Black or African American-owned. This figure is twice the national average, highlighting Tallahassee-Leon County’s commitment to fostering Black entrepreneurship. To support this growth, our community provides various programs and financial opportunities to advance minority- and women-owned small businesses. 

Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality (OEV) Resources 

OEV actively supports minority- and women-owned businesses (MWBEs) through various initiatives to foster economic inclusion and opportunity. 

• Certification: OEV’s Minority, Women, & Small Business Enterprise (MWSBE) Division certifies eligible MWSBEs, which provides access to government contracts and procurement opportunities. 
• Capacity-Building Programs: OEV offers training, workshops, and resources to help MWBEs scale their operations, empower financial decision-making, and enhance industry competitiveness. Book an appointment with OEV’s MWSBE Division to discuss your business needs.  
• Networking & Contracting Opportunities: Through premier events like the Big Bend Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week and Black Business Expo Tallahassee, OEV provides MWBEs with opportunities to connect with government agencies, corporate buyers, and other business owners to secure contracts and partnerships. 

Technical Assistance & Business Support 

These organizations provide training and consulting on business plans, bid preparation, strategic planning, marketing, accounting, and procurement strategies. 

• The FAMU Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides no-cost consulting services to help small businesses with financing, growth, and expansion. 
• The Capital City Chamber of Commerce offers technical assistance to help businesses prepare for loans and grants. 
• The Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce provides financial support services and advocates for minority businesses at the state and local levels. 

Access to Capital 

Tallahassee-Leon County funds local microlending programs to diversify the capital pool for minority businesses:   

• SmartSteps Microloan: an award-winning program with flexible terms and single-digit interest rates distributed by the FAMU Federal Credit Union. 
• REVIVE! and ARPC Revolving Loan Fund: two programs managed by the Apalachee Regional Planning Council (ARPC) for businesses unable to secure traditional financing. 

Tallahassee-Leon County’s commitment to empowering Black-owned businesses and fostering economic diversity showcases our community’s dedication to inclusive growth. With resources like OEV, the FAMU SBDC, and various local organizations offering technical assistance and access to funding, entrepreneurs have a robust support system to navigate the challenges of starting and growing their businesses. As we celebrate the achievements of Black entrepreneurs in the region, it is essential to continue promoting initiatives that nurture their success and strengthen the local economy for years to come.