According to the MINORITY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AGENCY, loan denial rates for minority businesses in the United States are three times higher than those for non-minority firms. This belies the fact that minority owned businesses in the United States generated revenues of over $940.8 billion and contributed to payroll taxes that amounted to over $173.7 billion, according to a 2002 U.S. Small Business Administration Survey. This extraordinary contribution to the U.S economy motivates both state and federal governments to encourage minorities, in Florida and in other states, to seek assistance in starting businesses.

Access Florida is a state-run grant program helping minorities in Florida with business financing. Access Florida offers low-interest and flexible loans for up to $50,000 to minorities who have limited or no access to traditional business financing. One of its current programs, awarding grant money for the year's best-written business plan, is just one example of Access Florida's support for minority owned businesses.