Orlando, Florida—home to world-famous theme parks, luxury resorts, and a thriving hospitality scene—attracts more than 70 million visitors each year. As tourism rebounds, so does the demand for capital. Whether you’re opening a boutique hotel, expanding a tour company, or upgrading your restaurant near International Drive, having access to smart funding solutions is key to standing out and scaling up.
This guide explores the top funding solutions for Orlando’s tourism industry, from SBA loans and equipment financing to state-level grants and innovative capital strategies tailored for one of the most visited cities in the world.
Orlando’s tourism-based businesses face unique challenges:
Seasonal cash flow shifts
High competition and customer expectations
Heavy investment in property, staff, and tech
Sensitivity to global economic and travel trends
That’s why having the right funding strategy—from flexible working capital to long-term real estate loans—can be a game changer.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) supports tourism-based businesses through affordable loan programs backed by federal guarantees.
Max Loan: $5 million
Uses: Working capital, equipment, renovations, real estate
Terms: Up to 25 years
Rates: Prime + 2.25–4.75%
Best for: Hotels, restaurants, tour operators, entertainment venues
Structure: 50% lender + 40% SBA Certified Development Company (CDC) + 10% borrower
Use: Real estate, construction, major renovations, FF&E
Term: Up to 25 years
Rate: Fixed and below market average
Best for: Buying or renovating hotels, visitor centers, or event spaces
Use the SBA Lender Match Tool to find Florida-based SBA lenders.
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Identify the SBA loan that matches your needs
Connect with a local SBA-approved lender or CDC
Gather business and financial documentation
Submit a complete application
Await underwriting and approval
Review terms and sign loan agreement
Use funds for approved tourism-related uses
Tourism businesses in Orlando often experience high peaks and low valleys in revenue. The right financing helps you stay afloat year-round.
Use when needed, repay as you go
Ideal for inventory, payroll, and utilities
Helps bridge low-season cash flow dips
Lump-sum funding repaid over 6–18 months
Best for time-sensitive investments or emergency needs
Advance based on credit card sales volume
Fast access, but higher cost—best used sparingly
Tip: Compare multiple lenders and calculate total repayment before accepting short-term funding.
Orlando’s hospitality businesses must continually invest in high-quality guest experiences—from tech upgrades to new furniture.
Hotel furnishings and HVAC systems
Theme park rides and attractions
Commercial kitchen appliances
Shuttle buses and tour vans
AV systems for event and conference centers
Most equipment financing structures the item itself as collateral, keeping cash flow available.
While loans require repayment, grants and incentive programs offer free capital—if you qualify.
For small businesses promoting Florida tourism
Reimbursement for advertising costs
VisitFlorida.org (opens in new tab)
Small Business Façade & Site Improvement Grant
Downtown Commercial & Residential Building Improvement Grant
Targeted at physical upgrades, signage, and energy efficiency
Workforce training and development grants
Rural and urban business development funding
Learn more at FloridaJobs.org (opens in new tab)
Business: Magic City Tours
Need: $150,000 for marketing, fleet upgrades, and employee training
Solution: SBA 7(a) loan from SouthState Bank + Visit Florida grant
Outcome:
Expanded fleet with 3 electric shuttles
Hired 6 new employees
Tripled direct booking revenue in 12 months
Takeaway: Strategic funding can dramatically boost visibility and capacity for tourism operators.
SouthState Bank – SBA Preferred Lender
Seacoast Bank – Hospitality and CRE lending expertise
CenterState Bank – Strong in Central Florida tourism
First Florida Integrity Bank – Equipment and expansion loans
Florida First Capital Finance Corporation (CDC) – SBA 504 program partner
2+ years in business preferred (startups still possible with strong plan)
Credit score 620+ (personal or business)
Positive cash flow or strong projections
Business plan showing ROI and market demand
Relevant licenses, permits, and insurance
Business and personal tax returns (2–3 years)
Profit & loss statements and balance sheets
Use-of-funds breakdown
Lease agreements or property deeds
Marketing plan and tourism affiliations (e.g., TripAdvisor, Visit Florida)
Add interactive exhibits, VR experiences, or ride enhancements
Improve ADA accessibility and signage
Expand into new sites or mobile experiences
Upgrade guest rooms, lobby design, or security systems
Install smart tech (keyless entry, mobile check-in)
Buy out existing lease or purchase new location
Renovate for better seating or private dining
Add patios or themed décor
Invest in reservation and online ordering platforms
Purchase or retrofit vehicles for group tours
Hire seasonal staff
Develop branded routes and experiences
SBA Loans for Tourism and Hospitality (opens in new tab)
Visit Florida Grants (opens in new tab)
Florida DEO Tourism Support (opens in new tab)
Orlando Economic Partnership (opens in new tab)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unlocks capital to grow during peak seasons | May require strong documentation or collateral |
| SBA and local support make terms affordable | Tourism sensitivity adds lender risk |
| Can improve customer experience and branding | Seasonal income may affect approval chances |
| Grants and co-op marketing offset some costs | Not all businesses qualify for incentives |
From the convention corridor to Kissimmee’s roadside attractions, Orlando’s tourism economy is a powerhouse. But staying relevant—and profitable—means having the funding to innovate, expand, and meet rising guest expectations. Whether you choose an SBA loan, seasonal credit, or a public-private grant partnership, the right funding solution can make your business a star in Central Florida’s tourism landscape.
Ready to secure funding for your Orlando tourism business?
Connect with a local lender or SBDC advisor to explore customized financing strategies and programs available in Central Florida.