About the Event
The Tampa Bay Wave Hall of Fame Celebration is a premier annual event that brings together leaders shaping the region’s tech ecosystem. Founders, executives, investors, mentors and partners come together to recognize the people and companies driving growth while supporting the programs that fuel future innovation.
The evening reflects that impact. It features an awards program, seated dinner, reception and silent auction benefiting Tampa Bay Wave’s initiatives. Guests have time to connect, engage and support the continued growth of the region’s tech community.
Why Your Support Matters
You’re backing economic growth.
Your support helps startups create jobs and attract investment in Tampa Bay’s innovation ecosystem.
You’re investing in what’s next.
The companies supported through Wave programs are driving major growth and capital in the region.
You’re in the room where it happens.
Founders, investors, and business leaders all come together for this one night strengthening the Tampa Bay tech community.
You’re making a long-term impact.
Your support builds opportunities for future founders and leaders across the area.
The 2026 Tampa Bay Tech Legend
Tampa Bay Wave is proud to recognize University of South Florida President Moez Limayem, Ph.D., as the 2026 Tampa Bay Tech Legend. The honor recognizes Limayem’s leadership and impact on Tampa Bay’s innovation economy, including his role in strengthening connections among higher education, research, entrepreneurship and economic opportunity.
As president of one of the region’s most influential institutions, Limayem is helping prepare the next generation of innovators while advancing research and partnerships that contribute to Tampa Bay’s continued growth.
He joins a distinguished group of Tampa Bay Tech Legends whose leadership and long-term contributions have helped shape the region’s technology and innovation community.
Why Attend the Hall of Fame Celebration
The Hall of Fame Celebration brings together the founders, investors, executives and community leaders driving innovation and economic growth across Tampa Bay. More than an awards event, it’s an opportunity to build relationships, strengthen partnerships and celebrate the people shaping the region’s future.
Attendees include:
- Founders and executives from emerging and high-growth companies
- Venture capital firms, angel investors and funding partners
- Corporate leaders, innovation teams and industry stakeholders
- Community leaders and economic development organizations
- Tampa Bay Wave alumni, mentors and supporters
- Entrepreneurs and changemakers building what’s next
Whether you’re looking to expand your network, increase brand visibility or connect with Tampa Bay’s innovation community, the Hall of Fame Celebration offers access to some of the region’s most influential leaders and decision-makers.
Silent Auction
Innovation is built on connection—and often, it shows up in unexpected ways.
Our silent auction is a reflection of that spirit. A curated mix of exclusive experiences and local treasures that showcase the creativity, generosity and energy across Tampa Bay.
Each item tells a story. Each bid supports something bigger.
Proceeds benefit Tampa Bay Wave and our mission to help founders build, scale and access the resources they need to grow. It’s another way our community comes together to turn momentum into opportunity.
And in a region defined by collaboration, even a single evening can help shape what gets built next.
Why Sponsor
Strong Visibility
- Your brand is showcased across event marketing, on-site signage and event materials
- You represent the most respected organizations in the community
Direct Access
- Host clients and build relationships within the region’s innovation ecosystem
Incredible Positioning
- Align your brand with an organization focused on creating economic impact
- Be recognized as a champion of innovation and growth across the Tampa Bay community
Extended Exposure
- Pre-event promotion and media outreach
- Prominent brand placement throughout the Hall of Fame celebration
- Post event recognition in media, social media and highlights videos
Sponsor the Hall of Fame Celebration
Sponsorship Benefits at a Glance
GALA SPONSOR | $50,000
Presenting Partner
The Gala Sponsor receives the highest level of visibility, exclusive recognition opportunities and customized benefits that highlight leadership while demonstrating a commitment to the region’s continued growth and momentum.
VIP / Complimentary Tickets: Inquire for more details
SURGE SPONSOR | $25,000
Champion Innovation
Demonstrate your organization’s commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship through one of Tampa Bay’s most visible sponsorship opportunities.
Surge Sponsors enjoy premier branding, VIP access and meaningful engagement with founders, investors and the leaders shaping Tampa Bay’s future.
VIP / Complimentary Tickets: 10
SWELL SPONSOR | $5,000
Make an Impact
Show your support for the founders, innovators and organizations driving the region’s growth.
Swell Sponsors receive strong visibility and recognition while helping advance Tampa Bay Wave’s mission to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
VIP / Complimentary Tickets: 6
RIPPLE SPONSOR | $1,000
Show Your Support
A meaningful way to align your organization with Tampa Bay Wave and the future of innovation in our region.
Ripple Sponsors receive event recognition while helping create opportunities for the next generation of entrepreneurs and changemakers.
VIP / Complimentary Tickets: 2
HALL OF FAME WALL SPONSOR | $35,000
Leave a Lasting Legacy
VIP / Complimentary Tickets: Inquire for more details
WHITECAP SPONSOR | $10,000
Elevate Your Presence
Gain prominent visibility among Tampa Bay’s business, technology and investment communities while elevating your brand presence throughout.
Whitecap Sponsors receive enhanced recognition throughout the event experience while aligning their brand with founders, investors and innovation leaders regionwide.
VIP / Complimentary Tickets: 8
CURRENT SPONSOR | $2,500
Join the Community
Become part of a network dedicated to strengthening Tampa Bay’s innovation ecosystem.
Current Sponsors gain valuable exposure and the opportunity to engage with founders, investors and business leaders from across the region.
VIP / Complimentary Tickets: 4
2026 Sponsors
Swell
Ripple
Want to Learn More?
Have questions or interested in becoming a sponsor?
Connect with our team to learn how the Hall of Fame Celebration can help elevate your brand, strengthen relationships and support the region’s growing innovation ecosystem.
Dee Garcia | Director of Development &
Strategic Partnerships
dgarcia@tampabaywave.org
Nathan Hendriksen | Development Manager
nhendriksen@tampabaywave.org