StartUp FTL
StartUpFTL is a free entrepreneurial program created by the City of Fort Lauderdale to help aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs build a strong foundation for business success. Whether you're exploring a new business concept, validating an idea, or preparing to launch, StartUpFTL provides the tools, education, and connections needed to move forward with confidence.
Through expert-led workshops, practical business training, mentorship opportunities, and a network of local entrepreneurs and professionals, participants gain the knowledge and support needed to transform ideas into actionable business plans.
At StartUpFTL, we believe entrepreneurship should be accessible to everyone. That's why our program is designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are, helping them develop critical business skills, overcome challenges, and connect with resources that can accelerate their growth.
If you're ready to take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey, StartUpFTL is here to help you move from idea to action. Apply to the Ideation Cohort now!
Application Deadline
Applications close Sunday, June 21, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST.
Contact the Economic Development Division at EconomicDevelopment@fortlauderdale.gov for questions regarding the application or the StartUpFTL program.
Apply to the Ideation Cohort now!
Program Overview
This free 6-week accelerated program is tailored for business owners in the pre-planning phase of launching a business. Participants will take part in six (6) hands-on workshops, delivered in a hybrid format (online and in-person), covering topics such as registering your business, creating a business model, understanding overhead costs, and digital tools for growth.
Throughout the program, participants learn how to:
- Develop a clear business idea
- Understand legal requirements and register a business
- Create a business model and identify revenue streams
- Conduct market research, including how to use local market intelligence tools
- Understand startup costs and basic financial planning
- Build confidence through discussions, peer learning, and pitch preparation
The cohort is designed to help entrepreneurs gain clarity, validate ideas, and move closer to launching in the City of Fort Lauderdale.
Who is this Program For?
This cohort is ideal for:
- Entrepreneurs in the pre launch stage
- Residents who want structured guidance to prepare for business startup
- Individuals seeking step by step support to understand business fundamentals
- Entrepreneurs who may have recently launched but still need foundational skills
No prior business experience is required! You just need a strong idea and the motivation to build it into something real.
What to Expect:
Engaging Weekly Sessions
Interactive classes led by subject matter experts, covering core startup topics and practical business tools.
Hands On Learning
In class exercises, worksheets, and guided activities help you shape, test, and strengthen your idea.
Technical Training
Participants learn how to navigate Fort Lauderdale’s tools and resources, including business registration processes and market research platforms.
Mentorship & Community
Build connections with local professionals, guest speakers, and fellow entrepreneurs on the same journey.
Pitch Opportunity
At the end of the cohort, participants may be invited to present an elevator pitch highlighting their refined business concept.
For more information contact us at: EconomicDevelopment@fortlauderdale.gov or 954-828-6350. Apply to the Ideation Cohort now!
About the StartUp FTL Program
Generally, StartUp FTL is a 10-week program geared towards preparing entrepreneurs and small business owners succeed using the Kauffman FastTrac model. The Kauffman FastTrac model is a hands-on course that includes easy-to-follow lessons, group discussions, and personalized support where you will learn how to research your market, understand your customer base, build a strong business plan, learn to pivot, understand finances, and prepare for disasters.
Past Cohorts
- 1st Cohort - Fall 2024
- 2nd Cohort - Winter 2025
- 3rd Cohort – Ideation 2025
- 4th Cohort - Grow 2025
Take the first step towards the transforming journey of your business. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to unlock your business’s full potential!
Apply to the Ideation Cohort now!
Application deadline for the StartUp FTL Ideation Cohort extended to June 21, 2026 at 11:59pm EST
Grow Cohort Online Informational Session
This info session covered everything you need to know about the accelerated Grow Cohort application of the of StartUp FTL, including program dates, eligibility, and what to expect.
StartUp FTL Grow Cohort Guide(PDF, 17MB)
Find the Grow Cohort Presentation here!
Building Business with Impact
Missed the event? Watch as StartUp FTL alumni pitch their business to six guest judges!
Want to learn about StartUp FTL?
View the 2nd Cohort Informational session to learn more about the program!
StartUp FTL 2nd Cohort Guide(PPTX, 14MB)
Missed the 2nd Cohort Informational Session? Find the StartUp FTL Presentation here!
Be the first to know of program updates!
(This is not a StartUpFTL application. Apply to the Ideation Cohort through the application page!)
Click here to view form.
FAQs
When are applications due?
Applications for the StartUp FTL Ideation cohort, will be accepted from May 21 - June 21, 2026. Ideation cohort will focus on supporting entrepreneurs in the pre-planning phase of launching a business.
Please note: Applicants must have a pre-plan business idea and/or model ready to execute during the program.
Is the program free of charge?
The program is completely free to participate in and may offer a variety of free resources and some resources that have a cost for service.
Do I need to have a business to apply?
Those interested in the Grow Cohort do need to have an operating business in the City of Fort Lauderdale or must be a resident from the City that has an operating business outside the city.
Please Note: For the regular StartUp FTL program (12-weeks cohort), applicants do not need to have a business. Those ready to plan, launch, or start a new business can apply.
What is the difference between the Accelerator Cohort and the Non-Accelerator Cohort?
StartUp FTL Accelerated Ideation Cohort
This accelerated course is a free 6-session program created to help those individuals with a business idea – turn it into real businesses. Whether you're just starting to think about your business or have recently taken your first steps, this program will help guide you along the way. Application deadline is on June 21, 2026 at 11:59PM EST.
StartUp FTL Accelerated Grow Cohort
This accelerated course is a free 6-week program created to help in the start-up phase of their journey. Small business owners who have been operating and generating revenue for 1 to 5 years are welcome to apply! The cohort will focus on defining, strengthening, and learning new strategies to improve your business operations.
StartUp FTL Regular Cohort
Generally, StartUp FTL is a 10-week program geared towards preparing entrepreneurs and small business owners succeed using the Kauffman FastTrac model. The Kauffman FastTrac model is a hands-on course that includes easy-to-follow lessons, group discussions, and personalized support where you will learn how to research your market, understand your customer base, build a strong business plan, learn to pivot, understand finances, and prepare for disasters.
Will there be an info session?
No, sadly there will not be an informational session available for this cohort. Participants are encouraged to go over the Ideation Cohort from Class 2025. Applications for this Ideation Cohort 2026 may have changed.
StartUp FTL info sessions have the same structure and agenda. Expectation on each application question will be explained. You can view the info sessions below to get a preview of past application questions.
You can view the Ideation Cohort Info Session here: Info Session - July 1st
Want to learn about the regular StartUp FTL cohort? Watch the 2nd Cohort info session here: Info Session YouTube Video
You can also access the StartUp Info Session Guide found in the middle of the page in the widgets above.
Where will the program be offered?
The program is hybrid. Throughout the course of the program, participants will meet in person and online.
Participants will be meeting the following dates:
- Monday, July 20, 2026
- Monday, July 27, 2026
- Monday, August 3, 2026
- Monday, August 17, 2026
- Monday, August 24, 2026
- Monday, August 31, 2026
- Thursday, September 10, 2026 (changed due to Labor Day weekend)
- Monday, September 14, 2026
What will the schedule be for the Ideation Cohort?
Classes for the Ideation cohort will be every Monday from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM starting on Monday, July 20, 2026.
Participants will meet in person for 6 weeks. Participants will be meeting the following dates:
- Monday, July 20, 2026
- Monday, July 27, 2026
- Monday, August 3, 2026
- Monday, August 17, 2026
- Monday, August 24, 2026
- Monday, August 31, 2026
- Thursday, September 10, 2026 (changed due to Labor Day weekend)
*Schedule is subject to change
Will there by any online sessions available for remote participants?
Participants are required to attend the in-person classes unless approved and notified by the Program Coordinator.
Is there a limit to the number of participants in the program?
Each cohort will have a limit of 30 participants. Number of participants may vary in each application cycle.