Sarasota Small Business Insurance

Sarasota may be known for its beaches and arts scene, but behind every shop on Main Street and every office near Fruitville Road is a small business keeping the community running. At Pelican Shield Insurance Group, we help Sarasota business owners find insurance options that reflect the unique risks—and opportunities—of working in this vibrant Gulf Coast city.

Local Coverage for Sarasota’s Local Businesses

From the boutiques of St. Armands Circle to service providers based near Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota’s small businesses are as diverse as the community itself. But they all share one thing in common: the need for dependable protection from everyday risks.

Whether you’re opening a new café on Hillview Street or running a long-standing retail shop near Southgate, we’ll help you explore insurance options tailored to your industry, location, and customer base. Our solutions are designed to support Sarasota entrepreneurs through every stage of growth.

Insurance Options Built for Sarasota Business Owners

Every business has different exposures. We help you understand what coverage makes sense based on your operations and where you’re located in Sarasota.

A hand is holding a shield with a dollar sign on it.

General Liability Insurance

Protects against third-party injuries and property damage—especially important for customer-facing businesses in busy areas like Gulf Gate and the Rosemary District.

A black and white drawing of a house with a key on a white background.

Commercial Property Insurance

Covers buildings, inventory, and equipment from fire, theft, or hurricane damage. Vital for storefronts in hurricane zones or historic spaces like Burns Court.

A black and white drawing of a building with a person standing in front of it.

Business Owner’s Policy (BOP)

Combines property and liability insurance into one cost-effective package—great for retail shops, salons, and professional services near downtown Sarasota or the UTC corridor.

A black and white drawing of a gear and a shield with a check mark.

Business Interruption Insurance

Helps cover lost income if your business temporarily closes due to a storm, fire, or other covered event—an important safeguard during Florida’s hurricane season.

A line drawing of a laptop with an umbrella over it.

Cyber Liability Insurance

With so many Sarasota businesses moving online, this helps protect against data breaches, hacking, and fraud.

A black and white icon of a hard hat and a dollar bill.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Required for many businesses in Florida; helps pay for medical costs and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job.

Why Sarasota Business Owners Choose Pelican Shield Insurance Group

We Understand Gulf Coast Risk

We know what it means to run a business in a city where hurricane prep is part of your business plan. From high-wind endorsements to flood exclusions, we’ll walk you through the fine print.

Quick Turnaround for Downtown and Beyond

Need a certificate of insurance to secure a lease near Five Points or work with a vendor at the Sarasota Farmers Market? We aim for fast, no-delay service so you can keep things moving.

Flexible Policies for Sarasota’s Diverse Business Scene

From startups on North Tamiami Trail to family-run shops on Bee Ridge Road, we help business owners find coverage that fits their size, goals, and budget.

Sarasota Small Business Insurance FAQs

  • What types of insurance are required for small businesses in Sarasota?

    In Florida, most businesses with four or more employees are required to carry workers’ comp, and landlords often require general liability before leasing space. Some industries may also need special licenses or bonds.

  • Is hurricane damage covered under standard property insurance?

    Not always. In Sarasota—especially in coastal areas—windstorm or flood coverage may need to be added separately. We help business owners in Siesta Key, Lido Key, and inland neighborhoods secure what’s needed based on their location.

  • Do I need insurance if I work from home in Sarasota?

    Yes. Homeowners policies typically exclude business-related risks. If you’re running a business out of your home in The Meadows or Palmer Ranch, you’ll likely need a business policy for your equipment, clients, or liability.

  • Can I get short-term insurance for seasonal operations?

    Yes! We work with many Sarasota businesses that run seasonal events or tourist-based services. Short-term or flexible policies can help protect you without long-term overhead.

  • What if I have a mobile business in Sarasota?

    Whether you’re a mobile pet groomer, food truck operator, or event planner, we help cover your business where it goes—from Bayfront Park to vendor setups at the Sarasota Art Museum.