StartUp FTL
Turn Your Business Idea Into Action
Have a business idea you’ve been thinking about but aren’t sure how to move forward? The StartUp FTL Ideation Cohort is designed to support individuals who are just beginning their entrepreneurial journey and want guidance turning an idea into something real.
This eight-week program helps participants build a strong business foundation while gaining clarity and confidence in their next steps. Whether you’re refining an idea or exploring how to officially get started, the Ideation Cohort meets you where you are and provides the structure and support needed to move from concept to implementation.
About the Program
The Ideation Cohort is designed for individuals with business ideas or those in the earliest stages of launching a business. Throughout the program, participants explore foundational business concepts and receive support tailored to their stage of development. Depending on engagement during the application and orientation process, guidance may include validating a business idea, understanding legal structure and compliance requirements, establishing an initial brand and marketing presence, conducting basic market research, and identifying startup costs and potential revenue streams.
The goal of the cohort is to help participants formalize their business entities and take informed, confident steps toward launching.
Program Eligibility
This cohort is a great fit for individuals who have a business idea and want help figuring out what comes next.
- Live in the City of Fort Lauderdale
- Do business in the City of Fort Lauderdale
- Have a business idea ready to launch
- Have access to a computer to complete assignments and activities
- Be committed to attending all sessions and complete program assignments
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’ve been thinking about starting a business, this is your opportunity to turn that idea into action. We encourage you to apply, attend the informational session, and take the first step toward building your business foundation.
For more information contact us at: EconomicDevelopment@fortlauderdale.gov or 954-828-6350.
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About the StartUp FTL Program
StartUp FTL is a City of Fort Lauderdale initiative created to support local entrepreneurs at critical early stages of business development. The program is rooted in practical learning, real-world application, and building confidence—so participants are better prepared to take meaningful next steps in their business journey. StartUp FTL originally launched as a 10-week program built on the Kauffman FastTrac model, a hands-on approach that combines easy-to-follow lessons, group discussions, and personalized support to help entrepreneurs research their market, understand their customers, build strong business plans, adapt when needed, understand finances, and prepare for unexpected challenges. The program has since evolved into an accelerated 8-week format, allowing for deeper conversations and focused learning while still delivering the full value of a traditional cohort experience.
Past Cohorts
1st Cohort - StartUpFTL Cohort - Fall 2024
2nd Cohort - StartUpFTL Cohort - Spring 2025
3rd Cohort – Ideation Cohort - Fall 2025
4th Cohort - Grow Cohort - Winter 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!