Hall of Fame Sponsorships Now Open: Help Build Tampa Bay's Next Chapter of Innovation

 

Strong innovation ecosystems don’t happen by accident. They are built through investment, partnership and a shared commitment to what’s next.

As Tampa Bay Wave’s signature annual event, the Hall of Fame Awards Celebration brings together the founders, investors, corporate leaders and community champions helping shape the future of our region’s innovation economy. More than an evening of recognition, it is a reflection of what happens when a community invests in entrepreneurship and believes in the power of innovation-driven growth. 

Why It Matters

Hall of Fame celebrates the people, companies and organizations accelerating Tampa Bay’s entrepreneurial momentum while raising critical support for the programs that help founders launch, grow and scale their businesses.

The impact of Tampa Bay Wave’s work speaks for itself: 670 startups supported, more than $2 billion in capital raised, 7,600+ jobs created, 34 successful exits and an estimated $450 million in annual economic impact. 

Every sponsorship helps fuel the programs, connections and opportunities that make that impact possible.

A Seat at the Center of Innovation

On December 10, 2026, founders, executives, investors, corporate partners and community leaders will gather at Centro Asturiano de Tampa for an evening of recognition, connection and community. 

For sponsors, Wave’s Hall of Fame Awards Celebration offers more than visibility. It provides an opportunity to support entrepreneurs bringing life-enhancing advances to those who are helped by those advances, engage with influential leaders and be part of the continued growth of Tampa Bay’s innovation ecosystem. 

Sponsorship Opportunities Are Open

Sponsorship levels range from Ripple ($1,000) to Gala ($50,000), with options designed for organizations of all sizes. Additional à la carte opportunities provide even more ways to increase engagement and showcase your support for the entrepreneurial community. 

Whether your organization is focused on innovation, talent, economic development or community impact, there is a sponsorship opportunity to align with your goals.

Join Us

The Hall of Fame Awards Celebration is more than a special event. It is an investment in the founders, companies and partnerships shaping Tampa Bay’s future.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities and reserve your place at this year’s event, visit the Hall of Fame Celebration webpage or contact Dee Garcia, Director of Development and Strategic Partnerships, or Nathan Hendriksen, Development Manager.