The purpose of the Florida Department of State is to improve the quality of life for all Floridians by collecting public records, preserving historical and cultural heritage, promoting economic development, and protecting democracy through the oversight of fair and accurate elections.

• The Division of Arts and Culture is Florida’s state arts agency. It offers grant funding opportunities and other resources that support Florida’s creative institutions and promote Florida’s vibrant arts and culture offerings.
• The Division of Corporations is the central location for business filings. Business entities can file online through the division’s website, Sunbiz.org.
• The Division of Elections ensures fair and accurate elections in Florida. Division staff support the Secretary of State in carrying out duties as Chief Election Officer and also provide administrative support for the 67 local county Supervisors of Elections.
• The Division of Historical Resources preserves and promotes Florida’s historical and archaeological resources. The division manages grant programs and directs preservation efforts in cooperation with federal agencies, local governments, private organizations, and individuals.
• The Division of Library and Information Services manages the Florida State Library, Florida State Archives, and the state records center. More than 500 of Florida’s public libraries receive grant funding that helps to develop and improve the services they offer to their communities.
• The Office of International Affairs is housed within the Division of Arts and Culture and assists the Secretary of State in their duties as Chief Protocol Officer. The office coordinates with the Department of Commerce and facilitates consular relations between the state and all foreign governments doing business in Florida.
• The Office of Election Crimes and Security was established in 2022 to aid the Secretary of State in their duties as Chief Election Officer. The office has the authority to initiate preliminary investigations based on reports of alleged violations to Florida’s election code.

The funding information listed below is provided by Transparency Florida. Additional information can be obtained on the State of Florida Fiscal Portal or contacting the department.

Information on the department's performance can be found in its Annual Regulatory Plan.

OPPAGA Reports and Presentations
A complete list of related OPPAGA reports and presentations is available on our website.

Other Reports
Florida Department of State, Annual Regulatory Plans
A complete list of Florida Auditor General reports is available on its website.

Websites of Interest
National Archives
U.S. Department of State
U.S. Small Business Administration

Chapter 15 and s. 20.10, Florida Statutes

Florida Department of State Contact Website
Florida Department of State
500 South Bronough Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0250
(850) 245-6500
Website