Palm Bay has launched a free small business consulting program at City Hall’s UCF office, providing local entrepreneurs with guidance on starting, growing, and managing their ventures. The initiative, which began in July 2026, is already assisting business owners like Myriah Castano, who runs the Butterfly Room yoga studio. Castano credits the program with helping her expand her business after she created an affirmation book for her daughter following postpartum depression. “It was healing for me, and it inspired me to take bigger steps with my yoga business,” she said. The program connected her with consultant Tina Lange, who has run three businesses herself and understands the challenges of small business ownership. “I’ve been there personally,” Lange said. “Now we can help others avoid the mistakes I made.” The development center offers services for pre-ventures, including help with forming an LLC and obtaining insurance, as well as support for businesses looking to grow or sell. Lange emphasized the program’s goal to keep local money circulating in the community. “We want to help them grow and stay here,” she said. Castano recommends the program to other small business owners. “Tina reached out to me, and from the very moment I met her, it was like an instant connection,” Castano said. The center also assists with marketing strategies and local business tax requirements. Palm Bay officials have not disclosed how many businesses have used the program since its launch, but early feedback from participants like Castano highlights its impact. The UCF office at City Hall remains the primary location for the initiative, with no plans announced for expansion to other areas of Brevard County. Business owners can sign up online through the city’s website.