# Tampa Bay Wave | Accelerate | Innovate | Collaborate > Built for Founders.Fueled by Community. We’re entrepreneurs helping entrepreneurs transform innovative ideas into real-world solutions and scalable businesses, fueling important social and economic change in Florida and elsewhere. Discover Startup ## Pages - [Parking](https://www.tampabaywave.org/parking-2/): Office Location: Tampa Bay Wave is located on the 6th floor of the WeWork Building in Downtown Tampa, with the... - [BlueTech|X Accelerator](https://www.tampabaywave.org/bluetechx-accelerator/): BlueTech|X Accelerator Join the BlueTech|XAccelerator Backed by our proven accelerator platform, BlueTech|X is designed to help early-stage ocean-focused startups tackle... - [Conflict Of Interest Disclosure Form](https://www.tampabaywave.org/coi/): Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form - [Silent Auction](https://www.tampabaywave.org/silentauction/) - [InKind_Donations](https://www.tampabaywave.org/inkind_donations/) - [Media Kit](https://www.tampabaywave.org/media-kit/): MEDIA KIT As Featured in: Impact 570 Startups Supported 1. 1B Capital Raised 5,800 New Jobs Created BUSINESS IMPACT View... - [Blog Posts From Tampa Bay Wave | News, Commentary, Tips & More](https://www.tampabaywave.org/blog/): Tampa Bay Wave News Wave’s community is filled with ambitious entrepreneurs who are building the next breakout tech businesses in... - [Tampa Bay Wave | Accelerate | Innovate | Collaborate](https://www.tampabaywave.org/): Built for Founders. Fueled by Community. We’re entrepreneurs helping entrepreneurs transform innovative ideas into real-world solutions and scalable businesses, fueling... - [Sponsors & Partnerships](https://www.tampabaywave.org/sponsors-partnerships/): Sponsors & Partnership Tampa Bay Wave and the local tech startup community are fueled by the generous support and contributions... - [Tech|X Accelerator - Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/techx/): Tech|X Accelerator Join the Tech|XAccelerator Wave’s “purpose-driven” Tech|X Accelerator recruits tech startups aiming to achieve both economic success and have... - [Contact Us](https://www.tampabaywave.org/contact-us/): contact us Interested inWorking Together? GET STARTED Frequently Asked Questions The answers to all the things our Accelerator Program has... - [Support Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/support-wave/): Support Wave Your Support Matters Tampa Bay Wave’s mission delivery relies on the generous financial support of our community through... - [Community Impact](https://www.tampabaywave.org/community-impact/): Community Impact Wave’s Economic Strides Tampa Bay Wave drives transformative growth by fostering a diverse and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through... - [About Us - Startup Accelerator | Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/about-us/): About Us We Are TampaBay Wave What started as a meetup in 2008 has evolved into Florida’s #1 Accelerator and... - [Individual Giving - Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/individual-giving/): IndividualGiving Support Entrepreneurs: Your Impact Starts Here Today’s entrepreneurs are creating solutions for tomorrow’s challenges, finding innovative ways to make... - [Fund a Scholarship - Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/fund-a-scholarship/): Scholarships Make a Difference with the Splash Club Make a lasting impact in your community by becoming a Splash Club... - [Splash Club - Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/splash-club/): Splash Club About Splash Club Make a lasting impact in your community by becoming a Splash Club member with Tampa... - [Sponsors and Partners of Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/corporate-giving/): Corporate Giving Why Become a Corporate Supporter? We greatly appreciate all of our sponsors and partners for their generous contributions... - [Investor Network - Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/investor-network/): Investors Benefits of Joining Wave’s Investor Network When you join Wave’s Investor Network, you become part of a growing collective... - [Friends of Wave - Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/friends-of-giving/): Friends of Wave Join Us Friend of Wave is an annual giving society, starting at $1,500, dedicated to fostering a... - [Mentor Network - Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/mentor-network/): Mentor Network Make a Differenceas a Mentor Fueled by the vibrant energy of our community, mentors offer startups the same... - [Tampa Bay Wave CORE Membership | Ongoing Startup Support](https://www.tampabaywave.org/core-membership/): CORE Entrepreneur Leadership Program Ready to Close Your Next Round, Scale Revenue, and Lead the Future of Technology? CORE Entrepreneur... - [Startup Programs at Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/startup-programs/): Accelerator Programs LatinTech 2024 Pitch Night Tampa Bay Wave, in partnership with the Tampa Bay Latin Chamber of Commerce, is... - [CyberTech | X Accelerator - Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/cybertech/): CyberTech|X Accelerator Join the CyberTech|XAccelerator The CyberTech|X Accelerator provides innovative cybersecurity startups with access to strategic support, global networking, and... - [HealthTech|X Accelerator - Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/healthtech/): HealthTech|X Accelerator POWERED BY Join the HealthTech|XAccelerator The HealthTech|X Accelerator is an exclusive program for promising health technology startups ready... - [FinTech|X Accelerator Startup Program - Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/fintech/): FinTech|X Accelerator Join the FinTech|X Accelerator Tampa Bay Wave’s world-class FinTech|X Accelerator supports disruptive startups pioneering new technology solutions in... - [Events - Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/events100/): UPCOMING EVENTS 2026 Tech|X Pitch Night Coming Soon December 4, 2025 Coming Soon 2026 CyberTech|X Pitch Night Join us for... ## Posts - [Tampa Bay Wave Welcomes 2026 Tech|X Accelerator Cohort](https://www.tampabaywave.org/2026-techx-accelerator/): Tampa Bay Wave Welcomes 2026 Tech|X Accelerator Cohort, Powered by the Nielsen Foundation Tampa Bay Wave has launched the ninth... - [Regions Foundation Backs 2026 FinTechX Accelerator](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-regions-foundation/): Regions Foundation Backs 2026 FinTech|X Accelerator Tampa Bay Wave is excited to announce a generous grant from Regions Foundation to... - [Tampa Bay Wave 2026 CyberTech|X Launch](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-2026-cybertechx-launch/): Tampa Bay Wave 2026 CyberTech|X Accelerator Cohort Tampa, Fla. , Feb. 05, 2026 – Tampa Bay Wave, Inc. (Wave), a... - [Tampa Bay Wave and USF Launch 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator Cohort](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-and-usf-launch-2025-fintechx-accelerator-cohort/): Tampa Bay Wave and USF Launch 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator Cohort Nationally Recognized Accelerator Returns to Tampa Bay, Powering Fintech’s Future... - [Tampa Bay Wave Officially Launches New HealthTech|X Accelerator with 16 Innovative Startups](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-officially-launches-new-healthtechx-accelerator-with-16-innovative-startups/): Tampa Bay Wave Officially Launches New HealthTech|X Accelerator with 16 Innovative Startups TAMPA, FL (June 4, 2025) – Tampa Bay... - [Startups Making Waves 4/28-5/2: From Bogotá to Tampa Bay, Nufi and SkyTL (powered by Improving Aviation) are Reshaping the Future](https://www.tampabaywave.org/startups-making-waves-4-28-5-2-from-bogota-to-tampa-bay-nufi-and-improving-aviation-are-reshaping-the-future/): At Tampa Bay Wave, we believe the most impactful startups don’t just build companies, they solve real-world problems with bold... - [Coaching the Future: What 11th Graders Taught Wave About Innovation](https://www.tampabaywave.org/coaching-the-future-what-11th-graders-taught-wave-about-innovation/): Coaching the Future: What 11th Graders Taught Wave About Innovation How Tampa Bay Wave teamed up with Junior Achievement to... - [Startups Making Waves: Week of 3/31-4/4](https://www.tampabaywave.org/startups-making-waves-week-of-3-31-4-4/): Big Wins for Wave Companies: Redactable, Delorean AI, and Kind Designs Making Headlines At Tampa Bay Wave, it is always... - [Startups Making Waves 3/24-3/28](https://www.tampabaywave.org/startups-making-waves-3-24-3-28/): Startups Making Waves: Redactable, Delorean AI, and Kind Designs Shine Bright Welcome to Startups Making Waves, our weekly update on... - [Startups Making Waves: 3/17 - 3/21](https://www.tampabaywave.org/startups-making-waves-3-17-3-21/): This week, three standout startups from the Tampa Bay Wave community are making headlines across the country. From national media... - [Tampa Bay Wave and University of East London Forge Groundbreaking Transatlantic Partnership](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-and-university-of-east-london-forge-groundbreaking-transatlantic-partnership/): February 27, 2025 Tampa Bay’s innovation ecosystem just took a significant leap onto the global stage! We’re thrilled to announce... - [Innovation Takes Center Stage at Tampa Bay Wave's CyberTech|X Pitch Night](https://www.tampabaywave.org/innovation-takes-center-stage-at-tampa-bay-waves-cybertechx-pitch-night/): February 27, 2025 A Night of Cybersecurity Innovation On February 25th, Tampa Bay Wave’s fifth annual CyberTech|X Program concluded with... - [Wave Welcomes 15 Game-Changing Cybersecurity Startups to 2025 CyberTech|X Accelerator](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-welcomes-15-game-changing-cybersecurity-startups-to-2025-cybertechx-accelerator/): We’re thrilled to announce our newest CyberTech|X Accelerator cohort – 15 innovative cybersecurity startups ready to transform the industry! This... - [Wave's $1Billion Milestone is a Tampa Bay Community Story](https://www.tampabaywave.org/waves-1billion-milestone-is-a-tampa-bay-community-story/): FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Tampa Bay Wave and USF Launch 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator Cohort Nationally Recognized Accelerator Returns to Tampa Bay,... - [Hall of Fame 2024: A Night to Remember!](https://www.tampabaywave.org/hall-of-fame-2024-a-night-to-remember/): The energy was electric at Raymond James Stadium as the Tampa Bay Wave community came together for our sold-out Hall... - [Wave to Launch BlueTech Accelerator with 14MM Grant](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-to-launch-bluetech-accelerator-with-14mm-grant/): Tampa Bay Wave is proud to announce we will be launching a new BlueTech Accelerator in the summer of 2025... - [Make a Difference in Both 2024 and 2025 Through Year- End Giving](https://www.tampabaywave.org/make-a-difference-in-both-2024-and-2025-through-year-end-giving/): Smart Ways to Give Before 2024 Ends to Impact 2025Would it surprise you to learn that you can finish this... - [The Continuum Launches with $13.9M NOAA Grant to Advance BlueTech Solutions in Florida and Beyond](https://www.tampabaywave.org/thecontinuum_launches/): -FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE– The Continuum: Future-Proofing Florida and the Nation by Revolutionizing BlueTech Acceleration The Continuum Launches with $13. 9M... - [Christopher William Rohe](https://www.tampabaywave.org/christopher-william-rohe/): Super Power Commercializing New, Novel, and Transformative Solutions – specifically for the Government Ecosystem (Dual Use Tech) Government Contracting, Acquisition,... - [Edmundo Luiz Pinto Balthazar](https://www.tampabaywave.org/edmundo-luiz-pinto-balthazar/): Super Power Key skills: corporate financial planning & analysis, budget management, revenue forecasting, business metrics and analytics, board level presentations,... - [Emmanuel Hernandez Agosto](https://www.tampabaywave.org/emmanuel-hernandez-agosto/): Super Power - [Gregory Pierce](https://www.tampabaywave.org/gregory-pierce/): Super Power - [Jay Powers](https://www.tampabaywave.org/jay-powers/): I served in the Army for 26 years and retired in 2022 as a Special Forces colonel. During that time... - [Jason Gelsomino](https://www.tampabaywave.org/jason-gelsomino/): Super Power As a seasoned technology leader with over 25 years of transformative technology leadership, I have overseen intricate technological... - [Jitendra Khare](https://www.tampabaywave.org/jitendra-khare/): Super Power Vertical experience: Digital healthcare, Smart/Connected Devices, Connected/Smart Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability/EHS/SER Competencies: business strategy development and business model... - [Kyle White](https://www.tampabaywave.org/kyle-white/): Super Power Finance and Business Services Professionally Certified in Business Strategy and Project Management, with a formal education and background... - [Lauren Weiner](https://www.tampabaywave.org/lauren-weiner/): Super Power Government contracting, leadership, female leadership Former owner and CEO of a woman-owned, woman-led business in the Defense and... - [DaVinci Wearables: Innovating Women’s Health Tech](https://www.tampabaywave.org/davinci-wearables-innovating-womens-health-tech/): DaVinci Wearables: Innovating Women’s Health Tech DaVinci Wearables uses innovative wearable tech and a proprietary, intuitive app to provide active... - [Ascent: Transforming How Financial Data Works](https://www.tampabaywave.org/ascent-transforming-how-financial-data-works/): Ascent: Transforming How Financial Data Works Ascent’s cutting-edge platform is revolutionizing data utilization for financial institutions. This next-gen tool empowers... - [Pulse Charter Connect: Revolutionizing Healthcare Logistics​](https://www.tampabaywave.org/pulse-charter-connect-revolutionizing-healthcare-logistics/): Pulse Charter Connect: Revolutionizing Healthcare Logistics Ascent’s cutting-edge platform is revolutionizing data utilization for financial institutions. This next-gen tool empowers... - [Andy Bennett, PMP](https://www.tampabaywave.org/adam-kruger/): Super Power - [Tampa Bay Wave opens applications for 2024 HealthTech|X Accelerator](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-opens-applications-for-2024-healthtechx-accelerator/): Featured in Tampa Bay Business and Wealth Tampa Bay Wave, supported by a grant from the U. S. Economic Development... - [2024 FinTech x|Accelerator Applications Are Open](https://www.tampabaywave.org/upcoming-event-announcement/) - [Wave Announces New LatinTech Accelerator in Partnership with Tampa Bay Latin Chamber](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-announces-new-latintech-accelerator-in-partnership-with-tampa-bay-latin-chamber/): With the support of U. S. Representative Kathy Castor, Wave is proud to announce $500,000 in new federal funding to... - [2023 Year End Message From Our CEO](https://www.tampabaywave.org/2023-year-end-message-from-our-ceo/): Built for Founders, Fueled By Community As we close another impactful year, I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone in... - [Welcome Wave's 2023 Board of Directors & Officers](https://www.tampabaywave.org/welcome-waves-2023-board-of/): Tampa Bay Wave is proud to announce our 2023 Board of Directors, led by Santo Cannone, former COO of Connectwise.... - [Nielsen Foundation Triples Down on TechDiversity to Drive Innovation](https://www.tampabaywave.org/nielsen-foundation-triples-down-on-techdiversity-to-drive-innovation/): Tampa Bay Wave is proud to announce that our longtime sponsor, the Nielsen Foundation, has committed to an additional three... - [Meet Daylyn Randolph | Wave’s 2022 Summer Intern Thanks to FSU’s Tech Fellows Program Partnership](https://www.tampabaywave.org/meet-daylyn-randolph-waves-2022-summer-intern-thanks-to-fsus-tech-fellows-program-partnership/): Welcome Tampa Bay Wave’s newest team member, Daylyn Randolph! Daylyn is interning with Tampa Bay Wave this summer, thanks to... - [2022 FinTech|X Advisory Council Provides Specialized Expertise to the Inaugural Cohort](https://www.tampabaywave.org/meet-the-2022-fintechx-advisory-council-members-providing-specialized-expertise-to-startups/): FinTech|X Startup Accelerator Tampa Bay Wave and the University of South Florida Muma College of Business are proud to announce... - [Wave Launches Inaugural FinTech|X Accelerator, Announces Startup Cohort](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-launches-inaugural-fintechx-accelerator-announces-startup-cohort/): Tampa Bay Wave and the University of South Florida Muma College of Business, have partnered on a FinTech|X Accelerator to... - [Meet the 15 Cybersecurity Startups in Tampa Bay Wave's Latest Accelerator Cohort](https://www.tampabaywave.org/meet-the-15-cybersecurity-startups-in-tampa-bay-waves-2022-cybertechx-accelerator-cohort/): CyberTech|X Startup Accelerator The 2022 CyberTech|X Accelerator cohort kicked off this week, welcoming 15 of the best and brightest cybersecurity... - [From Startup to Acquisition: Refactr Climbs Ranks and Pays it Forward to Entrepreneurs](https://www.tampabaywave.org/refactor-tampa-bay-wave-donor/): Cybersecurity leader, SOPHOS, acquired Refactr just months after graduating from Tampa Bay Wave’s inaugural CyberTech|X Accelerator in 2021. Air Force veteran Founder... - [Tampa Bay Wave Announces FinTech|X Accelerator, Promoting Tampa Bay as a Major Fintech Hub](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-meets-the-growing-demand-for-fintech-in-tampa-bay/): FinTech|X Startup Accelerator University of South Florida’s Muma College of Business and Tampa Bay Wave have announced a new partnership... - [Wave Wins $200k Neighborhood Builders Grant to Amplify Support for Underrepresented Founders](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-is-guiding-the-next-generation-of-tech-entrepreneurs-driving-an-inclusive-sustainable-economy/): 2021 Bank of America Neighborhood Builders® Award Once upon a time, Tampa Bay was not revered as a hockey town,... - [Announcing 15 New Women-Led Tech Startups for 2021 TechWomen Rising Accelerator](https://www.tampabaywave.org/announcing-15-new-women-led-tech-startups-for-2021-techwomen-rising-accelerator/): 2021 Women Led Tech Startup Accelerator Tampa Bay Wave (Wave) is proud to announce the 15 incredible women-led tech selected... - [Wave Hall of Fame Awards - Six Recipients Representing $200 Million of Business Value Creation in Tampa Bay](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-hall-of-fame-awards-six-recipients-representing-200-million-of-business-value-creation-in-tampa-bay/): This week, Wave celebrated the first recipients of the Wave Hall of Fame Awards. Wave established these awards in 2021... - [CORE Membership Updates: JUNE 2021](https://www.tampabaywave.org/core-launch-updates-june-2021/): It’s been a busy few weeks since we kicked off the revitalized CORE program! In a short time, we’ve welcomed... - [Wave Selects 15 New Tech Startups for 2021 TechDiversity Accelerator](https://www.tampabaywave.org/2021-techdiversity-cohort/): Tampa Bay Wave (Wave) is proud to announce the 2021 TechDiversity Accelerator program cohort consisting of 15 incredible high-growth tech... - [Meet David Wedderburn | Wave's 2021 Summer Intern Thanks to FSU's Tech Fellow Program Partnership](https://www.tampabaywave.org/introducing-david-wedderburn-2021-tech-fellows-member/): Meet our newest team member, David Wedderburn! David is interning with Tampa Bay Wave this summer, thanks to a very... - [Applications Open for 2021 TechWomen Rising Accelerator](https://www.tampabaywave.org/applications-open-for-2021-techwomen-rising-accelerator/): Funded by JPMorgan Chase, Wave’s TechWomen Rising Accelerator Program empowers female-led tech startups to scale early-stage startups while working to... - [Introducing Wave's Newly Enhanced CORE Membership Program](https://www.tampabaywave.org/introducing-an-all-new-core-program/): Fueling startup success! . . for founders by founders As a founder of a high-growth technology startup, you wear a... - [From New York to London to Tampa Bay, Ramit Singh's Journey Scaling Startups Globally to Cultivating Wave's CORE Program](https://www.tampabaywave.org/9665/): Tampa Bay Wave is dedicated to empowering diversity in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and supporting entrepreneurs who are riding the wave... - [Wave Startups Tapping into More than $3 Billion of Available Non-Dilutive SBIR & STTR Grants](https://www.tampabaywave.org/non-dilutive-sbir-sttr-grants-fueling-startups/): Finding the right capital to fund your startup can be a challenge, and non-dilutive funding can be very attractive to... - [TechDiversity Accelerator Boosts Innovation for Underrepresented Startup Founders](https://www.tampabaywave.org/techx/): Powered by The Nielsen Foundation, Tampa Bay Wave’s TechDiversity Accelerator Program helps BIPOC and other underrepresented founder-led companies get the... - [Wave Appoints Charlotte Baker as Board Chair](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-appoints-charlotte-baker-as-board-chair/): Tampa Bay Wave, Inc. (Wave), a nonprofit technology startup accelerator dedicated to driving opportunity and prosperity in Tampa Bay, appoints... - [Startup Stories: Peerfit Creates 'Wake of Success' in Tampa Bay](https://www.tampabaywave.org/startup-stories-with-peerfit/): Hot off the heels of the (mega) sale of Peerfit’s intellectual property to a publicly traded, global company, Jamie Sewell... - [Hello 2021!](https://www.tampabaywave.org/hello-2021/): By Linda Olson, CEO, Tampa Bay Wave If you are like me, you are both glad that 2020 is over... - [Q4 2020 Funding Roundup](https://www.tampabaywave.org/q4-2020-funding-roundup/): Things are at full sprint in the Tampa Bay Wave startup scene as 2020 winds down. Multiple Wave companies have... - [Wave's 2020 Wish List](https://www.tampabaywave.org/waves-2020-wish-list/): Check out Wave’s 2020 Wish List to see how you can help support the Tampa Bay Innovation ecosystem with your... - [Valley Bank Supports Jobs in Tampa, Partners with Wave Rising Tide Relief Fund](https://www.tampabaywave.org/valley-bank-supports-jobs-in-tampa/): When the COVID-19 economic crisis first hit, Tampa Bay Wave witnessed first-hand the devastating impact that the shutdowns were having... - [Over 30 Wave Companies Named Startup of the Year Finalists Throughout the Years](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-startup-of-the-year-finalists/): The 9th Annual Startup of the Year Summit is taking place in Tampa Bay, January 25th-27th; so far, 10 out... - [Five Wave Companies Selected to Present at Florida Venture Forum's 2020 Early Stage Conference](https://www.tampabaywave.org/five-wave-companies-selected-to-present-at-florida-venture-forums-2020-early-stage-conference/): Congratulations to five Wave companies to present at Florida Venture Forum’s 2020 Early Stage Venture Forum Conference. EXIOM, INC. ,... - [Wave Startup Funding Roundup - October 2020](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-startup-funding-roundup-october-2020/): As we enter into Q4 2020, Wave companies continue to find success fundraising even during these odd times of COVID.... - [Startup Spotlight: We Craft Box](https://www.tampabaywave.org/startup-spotlight-we-craft-box/): Wave company We Craft Box has been rapidly growing over the past few years with the vision of helping parents... - [Where are they now? Checking in on Wave portfolio companies](https://www.tampabaywave.org/where-are-they-now-checking-in-on-wave-portfolio-companies/): A whopping eight Wave portfolio companies have recently kicked off engagements with top tier startup programs throughout the United States,... - [Tampa Bay Wave Announces its New 90-day CyberTech|X Accelerator](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-announces-its-new-90-day-cybertechx-accelerator-program/): Tampa Bay Wave announces new cybersecurity accelerator to grow Tampa Bay reputation for cybersecurity and generate new jobs A $100,000... - [Inaugural "Back to School" Laptop Donation Drive Draws Community-Wide Support to Empower Kids with Technology](https://www.tampabaywave.org/inaugural-back-to-school-laptop-donation-drive-draws-community-wide-support-to-empower-kids-with-technology/): Over 130 devices & $5,000 cash donated over 3 days to benefit local kids! Thanks to the generosity of many... - [Tampa Bay Wave Announces 13 Women-Led Startups Comprising the Inaugural TechWomen Rising Accelerator Cohort](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-announces-13-women-led-startups-comprising-the-inaugural-techwomen-rising-accelerator-cohort/): Funded by JPMorgan Chase, Wave’s new TechWomen Rising Accelerator fosters growth and development for women-led technology startups while striving to... - [Tampa Bay Community Rallies During COVID to Help Local Teens with a Laptop Donation Drive](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-community-rallies-during-covid-to-help-local-teens-with-a-laptop-donation-drive/): Local tech organizations are partnering to get laptops into the hands of underprivileged kids! With so many school-aged children being... - [Wave Startup Funding Roundup - August 2020 Edition](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-startup-funding-roundup-august-2020-edition/): Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, many startups are still finding early stage capital – including those with diverse founders. Tampa Bay... - [Tampa Bay Wave Companies Have Secured Investments Despite the Pandemic’s Grim Economic Forecast](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-companies-have-secured-investments-despite-the-pandemics-grim-economic-forecast/): Excerpt from article originally published on Grit Daily (August 10, 2020) Author: Sarah Marshall is a Columnist at Grit Daily.... - [EDA Grant For Florida Startups Yields Lakeland Group Investment](https://www.tampabaywave.org/eda-grant-for-florida-startups-yields-lakeland-group-investment/): Seeds sown by Tampa Bay Wave and Upsurge Florida lead to investment in Wave member technology company, JustProtect. Seeds planted... - [Tampa Bay Waves Leadership Panel on Diversity - An Economic Imperative](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-waves-leadership-panel-on-diversity-an-economic-imperative/): Entrepreneurial diversity is not only the right thing to do. It’s an economic imperative, according to a leadership panel at... - [Safe & Productive Coworking - Wave's Plans for Reopening Our Innovation Center in Response to COVID](https://www.tampabaywave.org/safe-productive-coworking-waves-plans-for-reopening-our-innovation-center-in-response-to-covid/): UPDATED as of June 1, 2020 (Check back frequently for updates) As we continue to monitor the situation at hand,... - [Tampa Bay Wave Selects 15 New Tech Startups for the 2020 TechDiversity Accelerator Cohort](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-selects-15-new-tech-startups-for-the-2020-techdiversity-accelerator-cohort/): Tampa Bay Wave is proud to announce their 21st accelerator cohort for the 2020 TechDiversity Accelerator. Tampa Bay Wave has... - [Wave Steps Up to Support Local Startups with New Emergency Relief Loan Fund in Response to COVID19](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-steps-up-to-support-local-startups-with-new-emergency-relief-loan-fund-in-response-to-covid19/): In early April 2020, Tampa Bay Wave was so moved by the economic stress on our founders that we were... - [Businesses recover from COVID-19 financial setbacks with the help of Tampa Bay Wave](https://www.tampabaywave.org/businesses-recover-from-covid-19-financial-setbacks-with-the-help-of-tampa-bay-wave/): When Vikas Bhatia moved his cyber security firm from New York to Tampa earlier this year, he was at the... - [Growing the tech industry: How a Wave entrepreneur played role in funding for video conferencing startup](https://www.tampabaywave.org/growing-the-tech-industry-how-a-wave-entrepreneur-played-role-in-funding-for-video-conferencing-startup/): It took veteran entrepreneur Steve MacDonald about a half-hour to see the potential in Vizetto, a technology company with a... - [#GivingTuesdayNow](https://www.tampabaywave.org/givingtuesdaynow/): Over the past several weeks, we have seen how fast things change on both a global and individual human level.... - [PikMyKid proposes using its technology to speed drive-thru Covid-19 testing](https://www.tampabaywave.org/pikmykid-proposes-using-its-technology-to-speed-drive-thru-covid-19-testing/): PikMyKid has proposed using the technology behind its school safety systems to make drive-thru testing for Covid-19 faster, safer and... - [Tech|X Accelerator Fosters Innovation](https://www.tampabaywave.org/techx-2/): Tampa Bay Wave, an “entrepreneurial hub” dedicated to helping tech startups become scalable businesses, is currently accepting applications for their... - [Innovation at Work COVID-19](https://www.tampabaywave.org/innovation-at-work-covid-19/): Truly, the impact that the coronavirus pandemic is making on the lives of families around the world, not to mention... - [Investing in Women-Owned Startups, a Better ROI](https://www.tampabaywave.org/investing-in-women-owned-startups-a-better-roi/): JPMorgan Chase recently announced a strategic partnership with Tampa Bay Wave and Embarc Collective to invest in women-owned tech startups.... - [We Craft Box Named Best Craft Box in WIRED](https://www.tampabaywave.org/we-craft-box-named-best-craft-box-in-wired/): Crafting is the worst part of parenting. My 5-year-old delights in sparkles, spangles, and gluing tiny pipe cleaners together. But... - [Nickelytics Will Participate in the Techstars Smart Mobility Accelerator Program](https://www.tampabaywave.org/nickelytics-will-participate-in-the-techstars-smart-mobility-accelerator-program/): Out of Home (OOH) advertising startup, Nickelytics has been selected to participate in Techstars’ Smart Mobility Accelerator mentorship-driven program, announced... - [TheIncLab Expands to Tampa with second AI+X Lab](https://www.tampabaywave.org/theinclab-expands-to-tampa-with-second-aix-lab/): TheIncLab, headquartered in the Washington, D. C. metro area, is pleased to announce it has opened a new human-centered Artificial... - [Knack Technologies makes Forbes 30 Under 30](https://www.tampabaywave.org/knack-technologies-makes-forbes-30-under-30/): The leaders at Intrinio and Knack are included in the new Forbes 30 Under 30. The list, which includes 600... - [Tampa Bay Wave Names New Board Chair, Brian Deming](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-names-new-board-chair/): Brian Deming, co-founder and former president of Tampa technology company Tribridge, was named 2020 board chair for Tampa Bay Wave.... - [Neuroflow listed as one of CNBC's Top 100 Startups](https://www.tampabaywave.org/neuroflow-listed-as-one-of-cnbcs-top-100-startups/): Every year, CNBC scans the globe looking for the 100 venture-backed start-ups that have the potential to transform industries and... - [Tampa Bay Wave Accelerator Features Startups From Healthtech, Adtech, Fintech, and more!](https://www.tampabaywave.org/tampa-bay-wave-accelerator-features-startups-from-healthtech-adtech-fintech-and-more/): Tampa Bay Wave says its new cohort of accelerator startups may be its most diverse ever, in terms of the... - [Fruutfull among finalists at SoGal Florida, advances to national competition](https://www.tampabaywave.org/fruutfull-among-finalists-at-sogal-florida-advances-to-national-competition/): Fruutfull’s co-founders and co-CEOs, Ellery Linder (left) and Danielle Rushton. Fruutfull, a one-year-old Tampa company with a unique design that... - [Immertec Takes 2nd Place At The 7th Annual Startup Of The Year Competition](https://www.tampabaywave.org/immertec-takes-2nd-place-at-the-7th-annual-startup-of-the-year-competition/): Here is a closer look at the Top 5 Finalists that pitched live to an All-Star Panel of Judges and... - [Grow Tampa Bay Here](https://www.tampabaywave.org/grow-tampa-bay-here/): Grow Tampa Bay Here by Chandra Clines, Manager Tax & Accounting Services with Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund Technology is the... - [A Smarter Way to Approach Charitable Giving](https://www.tampabaywave.org/a-smarter-way-to-approach-charitable-giving/): A Smarter Way to Approach Charitable Giving by Danyell Jones, Wealth Management Specialist, Accredited Asset Management Specialist, and Financial Advisor.... - [Wave Founder/CEO receives 2019 poweredUP Tampa Bay Tech Award](https://www.tampabaywave.org/wave-founder-ceo-receives-2019-poweredup-tampa-bay-tech-award/): TAMPA, Fla. (October 8, 2019) – Tampa Bay Tech is proud to announce their 16th Annual poweredUP Tampa Bay Tech... - [An Introduction to SEO and SEM for Startup Businesses](https://www.tampabaywave.org/an-introduction-to-seo-and-sem-for-startup-businesses/): An Introduction to SEO and SEM for Startup Businesses by Amanda Peterson, Contributor at Enlightened Digital. You’ve built a business,... - [Verapy makes Tampa Bay’s 2019 Inno Under 25](https://www.tampabaywave.org/verapy-makes-tampa-bays-2019-inno-under-25/): A burgeoning tech scene flanked by two major universities in the same city has helped usher a new generation into... - [Evolving From a Startup to an Established Business](https://www.tampabaywave.org/evolving-from-a-startup-to-an-established-business/): Evolving From a Startup to an Established Business by Jim Donatelli, St. Petersburg/Clearwater Market Executive for Regions Bank The startup... - [The Myth of the Insta-Entrepreneur](https://www.tampabaywave.org/the-myth-of-the-insta-entrepreneur/): The Myth of the Insta-Entrepreneur by Andre Hampton, founder and managing director of StreamS Capital and of Factory 114. With... - [Innovadores menores de 35 - Humanitarios](https://www.tampabaywave.org/innovadores-menores-de-35-humanitarios/): Ayuda a las personas con discapacidad visual a navegar por interiores con su ‘app’ gratuita En el mundo hay 217... - [Protect Your IP: Three Important Agreements for Founders and Executives](https://www.tampabaywave.org/protect-your-ip-three-important-agreements-for-founders-and-executives/): Protect Your IP: Three Important Agreements for Founders and Executives. By Tom Cockriel, Trenam Law Attorney As you grow your... # # Detailed Content ## Pages Office Location: Tampa Bay Wave is located on the 6th floor of the WeWork Building in Downtown Tampa, with the address being 501 E Kennedy Blvd, Suite 650, Tampa, FL 33602 (Link to map here). Parking Options: For your convenience, there is a parking garage located within our building. The hours are 7am-7pm for visitor parking. Current pricing options for the garage are $4/hr or $36 for the day. Additionally, 717 Parking Lot L34 is located across the street at 601 E Jackson St, Tampa, FL 33602. Current pricing options for the lot (which can fluctuate daily) are roughly $12 for 6 hours or $193. 20/month. You will also find various spaces for street parking surrounding the building. We recommend you download and use the ParkMobile app for on-street parking. BlueTech|X Accelerator Join the BlueTech|XAccelerator Backed by our proven accelerator platform, BlueTech|X is designed to help early-stage ocean-focused startups tackle the planet’s most pressing environmental and climate challenges head-on. Whether it's protecting marine biodiversity, advancing clean energy, or reinventing the blue economy, this program is where tech meets tenacity. Apply Now Capital Receive warm introductions to Change to 600+ members of investor network, 250+ mentors. Connections Attend networking events and receive strategic introductions to business prospects, government, and community leaders. Community Connect with cohort startup peers and engage in a range of community events and networking opportunities. Mentor Get coaching and mentorship from our well-vetted community of 220+ subject matter experts. Exposure Take advantage of Wave's robust media and social presence. Showcase your startup at Wave's Pitch Night community event. Perks Gain exclusive annual savings of $100,000+ on startup resources through Morrow and other affiliate partnerships. Who We Support The TechDiversity Accelerator nurtures early-stage tech companies led by minority entrepreneurs to enhance diversity throughout the industry and Tampa Bay. Pillars of Innovation Sponsors Support Us Criteria For Consideration Early-stage startups utilizing proprietary technology to develop cutting-edge blue ecosystem products and solutions Management team with at least two full-time roles Ability to travel to Tampa for a minimum of two visits throughout the program Proof of market validation Investable, scalable business model Well-developed and viable business plan Financial stability with a runway of at least 6-12 months Join the BlueTech|X Accelerator Notify Me Apply Here Key Dates check back for future... Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form Fill out my online form. Fill out my Wufoo form! Fill out my online form. Fill out my Wufoo form! Fill out my online form. Fill out my Wufoo form! MEDIA KIT As Featured in: Impact 570 Startups Supported 1. 1B Capital Raised 5,800 New Jobs Created BUSINESS IMPACT View Impact Report 630+ StartupsSupported 7,000+ JOBSCREATED 30+ Countries Represented FromStartup Founders 29 Exits $400MM ECONOMIC IMPACT 2500+ Annual TrainingHours $1. 6 B Capital Raised STARTUP FOUNDERS FROM 0 Media Coverage Tampa Bay Wave launches 2025 CyberTech|X Accelerator - Tampa Bay Business & Wealth Tampa Bay Wave has announced its 2025 CyberTech|X Accelerator cohort, featuring 15 cybersecurity startups from across the United States and abroad. Read More » Tampa Bay Wave Surpassses $1 Billion in Capital Raised, Establishing Florida as a Landing Tech Ecosystem Founded in 2008 by CEO Linda Olson, Tampa Bay Wave began as a grassroots group of entrepreneurs, later transforming into a key player in Florida’s tech landscape. Read More » Fifteen startups join Tampa Bay Wave's cybersecurity accelerator - Tampa Bay Business Journal The latest cohort of Tampa Bay Wave's cybersecurity-focused accelerator program has launched. Read More » Wave PR Coverage Tampa Bay Wave and USF Launch 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator Cohor Tampa Bay Wave, in partnership with the University of South Florida’s Muma College of Business, launches the highly anticipated 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator, a nationally recognized program that supports high-growth fintech startups from across the U. S. and beyond. Read More » Senior Leadership Linda Olson CEO Demelza Genest Chief Operations Officer Richard Munassi, MD, MBA Accelerator Managing Director Dee Garcia Director of Development Program Highlights and Impact 2026 CyberTech|X Recap Report Download 2025 Impact Report Download... Tampa Bay Wave News Wave’s community is filled with ambitious entrepreneurs who are building the next breakout tech businesses in Tampa Bay and in the world. Discover their startups, stories, and successes on our community blog. Join our newsletter to stay updated Pillars of Innovation Sponsors Support Us Built for Founders. Fueled by Community. We’re entrepreneurs helping entrepreneurs transform innovative ideas into real-world solutions and scalable businesses, fueling important social and economic change in Florida and elsewhere. Discover Startup Programs We Are TampaBay Wave What started as a meetup in 2008 has evolved into Florida’s #1 Accelerator and tech startup support organization. We are a “for entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs” innovation community working to foster a stronger and bigger tech startup ecosystem in Tampa Bay and throughout Florida. Startup Programs Core Membership Events Networking CorporateInnovationProgram InnovationHub AcceleratorPrograms MentorPrograms InvestorPrograms Scholarships CyberTechWhat started as a meetup in 2008 has evolved into Florida’s #1 Accelerator and tech startup support organization. LEARN MORE HealthTechWhat started as a meetup in 2008 has evolved into Florida’s #1 Accelerator and tech startup support organization. LEARN MORE TechDiversityWhat started as a meetup in 2008 has evolved into Florida’s #1 Accelerator and tech startup support organization. LEARN MORE Start-Up SupportWhat started as a meetup in 2008 has evolved into Florida’s #1 Accelerator and tech startup support organization. LEARN MORE LatinTechWhat started as a meetup in 2008 has evolved into Florida’s #1 Accelerator and tech startup support organization. LEARN MORE FinTechWhat started as a meetup in 2008 has evolved into Florida’s #1 Accelerator and tech startup support organization. LEARN MORE Dive into Accelerators Upcoming Event Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua. View Event BUSINESS IMPACT 630+ StartupsSupported 7,000+ JOBSCREATED 30+... Sponsors & Partnership Tampa Bay Wave and the local tech startup community are fueled by the generous support and contributions of our sponsors and partners. Your support empowers our mission and the companies we assist, fostering growth and driving workforce development in our communities. Interested in joining our mission? Join the Mission Benefits Industry-Specific Program Sponsorship Partners have the opportunity to sponsor programs that are tailored to specific industries. This enables them to directly connect with and support sectors that align with their business interests and goals. Achieving Social, Business, and Economic Goals By affiliating with emerging tech through sponsorship, partners can meet their social, business, and economic objectives. This affiliation helps them stay at the forefront of technological advancements and market trends. Corporate Innovation and Exposure to Startup Culture Wave offers corporate innovation scouting and exposes partner employees to startup culture. This experience helps rekindle their entrepreneurial spirit and fosters Connect with our team to explore how your investment can create a meaningful impact. Become a Sponsored Partner Federal Support Economic Development Partners Pillars of Innovation Tidal Wave Supporters Investor Readiness Partners Scholarships Connect with Wave on Becoming a Partner Tech|X Accelerator Join the Tech|XAccelerator Wave’s “purpose-driven” Tech|X Accelerator recruits tech startups aiming to achieve both economic success and have a positive, measurable effect by solving a real-world issue through transformative technology. We look for founders from all demographics and geographies with foresight, who have clear intentions, a progress mindset and can be a catalyst for beneficial change. Apply Now Notify Me Capital Receive warm introductions to Change to 600+ members of investor network, 250+ mentors. Connections Attend networking events and receive strategic introductions to business prospects, government, and community leaders. Community Connect with cohort startup peers and engage in a range of community events and networking opportunities. Mentor Get coaching and mentorship from our well-vetted community of 220+ subject matter experts. Exposure Take advantage of Wave's robust media and social presence. Showcase your startup at Wave's Pitch Night community event. Perks Gain exclusive annual savings of $100,000+ on startup resources through Morrow and other affiliate partnerships. Who We Support The TechDiversity Accelerator nurtures early-stage tech companies led by minority entrepreneurs to enhance diversity throughout the industry and Tampa Bay. Criteria For Consideration Tech startups solving real-world problems with potential for high-scale growth Dedicated management by at least two full-time team members Ability to travel to Tampa twice during the program Market validation Scalable, investable business Viable business plan Financial runway of a minimum of 6-12 months Join the Tech|X Accelerator APPLY NOW Accelerator Applications Are Currently Closed Thank you for your interest in our Accelerator Program. While applications are... contact us Interested inWorking Together? GET STARTED Frequently Asked Questions The answers to all the things our Accelerator Program has to offer What is an Accelerator? An accelerator is a mentorship-driven program run over a fixed period of time. Accelerator programs are designed to provide startups with essential resources that help entrepreneurs make rapid progress on business, product, and customer development. Entrepreneurs typically have a prototype when they join an accelerator, but they may not know the path they should take or the next steps to create a viable business model around their product. Are there certain criteria each company should reach before applying for the program? Yes, we work with companies that, at a minimum, have reached the “problem-solution fit” stage. This means that the startup team has identified a real problem worth solving in the market and has done the necessary customer research to initially validate their solution What types of startups are good fit for the program? Our program is best suited to support technology startups that are: Web & Mobile Highly Disruptive Scalable with potential for significant growth In new innovative markets What types of startups are NOT a good fit for the program? We do not accept hobbyist/lifestyle businesses or corporate spin-outs into the Wave Accelerator Program. If you are a larger company interested in getting involved at Wave, please contact us about our corporate programs. What are the dates for the next Tampa Bay Wave Accelerator? Tampa Bay Wave Accelerator runs multiple accelerators throughout... Support Wave Your Support Matters Tampa Bay Wave's mission delivery relies on the generous financial support of our community through individual giving, grants and corporate sponsorships. Your contributions empower tech startups and enrich the economy. Get Involved. Make Waves. Your support makes a real difference for our startups and community. Individual Giving Individual donations through Friends of Wave, Splash Club, scholarships, and more support the next generation of great tech startups and contribute to the overall tech ecosystem. Give Individually Corporate Partners Corporate sponsors and partners grant our startups access to essential resources that allow them to grow and thrive, thereby building a stronger tech community. Become a Corporate Sponsor Mentor/ Advocate Lend your expertise and executive experience to tech startup founders by guiding them and introducing them to your Procurement Supplier Diversity contacts. Become a Mentor The Power of Giving Your financial support fuels the growth of our community and economy, with tangible impact. SUPPORTER Spotlight Scott Price CEO, A-LIGN "To make Tampa Bay a nationally-recognized hub for technology and innovation, we must support startups through every stage of their journey. " 7,300+ New jobs supported $400MM+ Wave’s annual economic impact $1. 8 Billion Startup capital raised Federal Support Economic Development Pillars of Innovation Sponsors Tidal Wave Supporters Community Support Us Community Impact Wave's Economic Strides Tampa Bay Wave drives transformative growth by fostering a diverse and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through our world-class programs and support, we’ve supported 670+ startups over the past decade, generating over 7,300+ new jobs created and $450 million in annual economic impact. ” By accelerating Florida’s tech economy, Tampa Bay Wave has strengthened the local landscape and attracted startup founders from 30 countries, solidifying Tampa's reputation for innovation and opportunity. With over $1. 8 Billion in total startup funding raised, we play a pivotal role in helping new businesses evolve into successful enterprises with lasting economic impacts globally. BUSINESS IMPACT 667+ StartupsSupported 7,300+ JOBSCREATED 30+ Countries Represented FromStartup Founders 32 Exits $400MM ECONOMIC IMPACT 250+ Mentor Community Members $1. 8 BILLION Capital Raised STARTUP FOUNDERS FROM 0 See Our Impact View Impact Report Support Wave Your support empowers Wave to make lasting impacts on the local community and the greater economy. Support Us Wave Cares We believe innovation begins with education and collaboration. Our staff goes above and beyond traditional support by participating in various community and educational organizations.   Each year, our team members volunteer their skills and hours to assist local nonprofits, schools, and other educational programs, making a meaningful impact in the Tampa Bay area.  Through these efforts, we aim to empower our community and foster a spirit of collaboration and growth. Economic Development By working with community, state, and federal partners, Wave has made remarkable economic strides in Florida and elsewhere. Our... About Us We Are TampaBay Wave What started as a meetup in 2008 has evolved into Florida’s #1 Accelerator and tech startup support organization. We are a “for entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs” innovation community working to build a stronger and broader tech startup ecosystem in Tampa Bay and across Florida. Our Mission To accelerate Florida's innovation economy by helping entrepreneurs transform innovative ideas into real-world solutions and scalable businesses in Tampa Bay and communities elsewhere. Our Framework The framework used in our nationally recognized accelerator programs helps startups through each milestone along their journey to success. Build We help early-stage, pre-revenue startups transform concepts into tangible market-ready products Launch After developing and iterating a product, we help startups launch and start earning revenue. Grow Tampa Bay Wave's programs, tools, and resources help our tech startups reach their full potential Core Values Founder Focused We are passionate about startups and focus on founders. Community We are fueled by community connections. Integrity We act with integrity. Excellence We have audacious goals and make a big impact. Board of Directors Penny ParksBoard Chair Linda OlsonPresident/CEO Elizabeth UrbanskiSecretary Catherine WilhelmTreasurer Santo CannoeImmediate Past Chair Kailah MatyasProgram Strategy Committee Co-Chair Lew JollyProgram Strategy Committee Co-Chair Rob BrownFundraising Committee Co-Chair Andrew SmithFundraising Committee Co-Chair Amanda Milligan Governance and Ethics Committee Co-Chair Tom CockrielGovernance and Ethics Committee Co-Chair Nick OutmanSeed Fund Committee Chair Shane NeedhamBranding and Strategic Communications Committee Co-Chair Cathy Ryan ReneerBranding and Strategic Communications Committee Co-Chair Petar Besalev Jennifer Bryk Jose Fourquet Taylor Johnston Brian Model Jack... IndividualGiving Support Entrepreneurs: Your Impact Starts Here Today’s entrepreneurs are creating solutions for tomorrow’s challenges, finding innovative ways to make the world a better place. With your generous donations, Tampa Bay Wave is helping to ensure those startups succeed while nurturing a vibrant tech ecosystem. Choose your preferred way to give and make a lasting difference. Friends of Wave As a Friend of Wave, you’ll join a dynamic network of supporters dedicated to growing the Tampa Bay tech community through annual giving. Benefits include direct engagement with startup founders, networking opportunities, event access, and recognition for your support. Join Friends of Wave Scholarships As a Friend of Wave, you’ll join a dynamic network of business leaders and supporters dedicated to building and growing a robust Tampa Bay tech community through annual giving. Exclusive benefits include direct engagement with startup founders, networking opportunities, exclusive event access, and recognition for your support. Fund a Scholarship Splash Club The Splash Club makes waves in the community with monthly recurring donations to drive innovation and growth in the tech scene. Dedicated Splash Club members enjoy benefits such as branded merchandise and exclusive invitations to network with our community. Join Splash Club Flexible Giving Every gift counts. We welcome donations of all sizes and types, from tax-deductible monetary contributions to in-kind, stock, and other creative donation ideas. Larger gifts can earn named recognition at the Wave Venture Center, but everything makes an impact. Donate Today Tax-Advantaged Giving Align your philanthropic giving with your values while... Scholarships Make a Difference with the Splash Club Make a lasting impact in your community by becoming a Splash Club member with Tampa Bay Wave! Your monthly recurring donation supports innovation and comes with several benefits, from day passes and merch to exclusive invites. Join the movement and make a difference today. Fund a Scholarship Help level the playing field for all entrepreneurs by funding scholarships to provide the critical resources that startups need to succeed. 100% of proceeds go directly towards program fees for promising founders. Pay by Credit Card Pay by Check Pillars of Innovation Sponsors Support Us Splash Club About Splash Club Make a lasting impact in your community by becoming a Splash Club member with Tampa Bay Wave! Your monthly recurring donation supports innovation and comes with several benefits, from day passes and merch to exclusive invites. Join the movement and make a difference today. For $30 a month, you’ll enjoy: Branded Merch Represent Tampa Bay Wave with branded merchandise. Room Discounts Special pricing on our meeting rooms and podcast studio. Special Invitations Receive exclusive invites to Wave events and opportunities. Join Today! Join the Splash Club today and make waves in your community. Sign Up Now Pillars of Innovation Sponsors Support Us Corporate Giving Why Become a Corporate Supporter? We greatly appreciate all of our sponsors and partners for their generous contributions to the growth of entrepreneurship and innovation in Tampa Bay. Your business partnership ensures startups can access Tampa Bay Wave’s accelerator programs and sets a powerful example for our businesses as they grow to become industry leaders. Corporate giving plays a crucial role in driving the success of our startups. By becoming a corporate sponsor either directly or through your foundation, you give tomorrow's leading tech companies access to vital resources so they can unlock their full potential and continue contributing to our community and economy. Become a Corporate Sponsor Networking Opportunities Connect with startup founders, CEOs, and other key players in the tech ecosystem. Ensuring Accelerator Access Remove economic barriers for startups to benefit from our world-class accelerators. Recognition of Support Enjoy Wave's public recognition of your expertise and contributions through our platforms and events. About Becominga Mentor Wave mentors use their executive experience, expertise and connections to advocate for and guide our accelerator startups through the process of growing their tech companies. Support startup excellence when you join our Mentor network and introduce our startups to your corporate ecosystem. Become a Mentor BUSINESS IMPACT 630+ StartupsSupported 7,000+ JOBSCREATED 30+ Countries Represented FromStartup Founders 26 Exits $350MM ECONOMIC IMPACT 250+ Mentor Community Members $1. 6 B Capital Raised STARTUP FOUNDERS FROM 0 See Our Impact View Impact Report Interested in Becoming a Corporate Partner or Sponsor? Help make innovation... Investors Benefits of Joining Wave's Investor Network When you join Wave's Investor Network, you become part of a growing collective of visionary investors dedicated to propelling innovative tech startups to new heights. Our Investor Network is designed for accredited investors who share our passion for supporting early-stage tech companies who are building successful businesses in CyberTech, FinTech, HealthTech, EdTech and more. There is no fee to join. Learn More Exclusive Pitch Events Get invited to Wave’s high-profile, invite-only pitch events. Personalized Introductions Connect with investment-ready, growth-stage Wave startups. InsiderUpdates Receive newsletters with insights into our accelerator companies. Empowering Tampa Bay's Tech Startups Investors are the backbone of our tech ecosystem. Wave connects cohort members with investors passionate about turning innovative startups into thriving enterprises. Our investors provide crucial support to early-stage tech companies from inception to Series A, empowering entrepreneurs to build, launch, and scale their startups. By investing in these companies, you provide essential financial backing and directly contribute to the dynamic growth and innovation that define Tampa Bay and beyond. Interested in Joining These Investors? Learn More Success Stories Refactr Refactr was acquired by cybersecurity leader SOPHOS just months after... Read More LunaJoy LunaJoy is a telehealth startup, based in St. Petersburg, Florida. They are... Read More Harness Harness is an impact-focused financial technology platform that... Read More Pillars of Innovation Sponsors Support Us Friends of Wave Join Us Friend of Wave is an annual giving society, starting at $1,500, dedicated to fostering a dynamic and inclusive tech ecosystem. By uniting visionary leaders and committed supporters, Friends of Wave is shaping the future of technology. Learn More Connect with Future Leaders Engage with tomorrow’s brightest tech companies and build relationships with influential figures in our community. ExclusiveAccess Get invited to premier events with preferred seating, offering opportunities for networking, collaboration and growth. Recognition and Impact Be recognized with a special pin and celebrated for your crucial role in supporting the tech ecosystem. We Would Like to Acknowledge Our Long Term Friends of Wave Alex SandkuhlAndrea GrahamAndy SwensonBrian DemingCharlotte BakerChuck PapageorgiouGerwai ToddGreg CelestanHonorable Alex SinkJack McCollumKailah MatyasKostas Stoilas Lance RaabLauren WeinerMadeline DentMike HerdegenPenny ParksPrida & Garcia, CPAsRegions BankRobert BrownRuss MillerSanto CannoneTopmark PartnersTracy Jefferson Join TODAY! Become a vital part of Tampa Bay’s tech revolution. Pay by Credit Card To pay by check, please contact us for instructions at donate@tampabaywave. orgFor individuals, select your preferred payment option or text WAVE to #26989. For corporate partnerships, reach out to us at donate@tampabaywave. org Pillars of Innovation Sponsors Support Us Mentor Network Make a Differenceas a Mentor Fueled by the vibrant energy of our community, mentors offer startups the same invaluable resources they would find within a corporate environment. Our mentors engage in local events, host speaking sessions, connect during pitch nights, and coach founders at mentor surge to immerse themselves in the Tampa Bay region. They also meet with founders virtually offering point-to-point mentorship on critical topics such as pitch practice, financial modeling, proposal reviews, and sales strategy. Apply to Become a Mentor How Tampa Bay Wave Mentors Help Mentors provide transformative solutions to founders' most pressing challenges—the ones that keep them up at night and require years of experience to overcome. Our globally dispersed mentor community shares decades of wisdom, acting as catalysts for innovation. 220+ mentors represent serial entrepreneurs, investors, directors of innovation at corporations, and more. Imagine shaping the future of technology and driving progress for the world’s best innovation-driven enterprises. Help Shape The Best Tech Get involved with Wave portfolio companies and their brilliant founders early on through mentorship and sneak peek events of selected companies. Share Your Expertise Share your skills and thought leadership with revolutionary companies at programming sessions and community events. Like-minded Community Join and engage with a community of like-minded individuals and innovators brainstorming solutions to change the world. 220+ Mentors Cover a Wide Range of Backgrounds Here are just a few of our experienced and well connected mentors supporting startups in the Wave community. Our Mentor Network Impact 260+ Mentor... CORE Entrepreneur Leadership Program Ready to Close Your Next Round, Scale Revenue, and Lead the Future of Technology? CORE Entrepreneur Leadership Program, or “CORE ELP”, is a year-long extension of our accelerator programs, designed to help experienced founders and professionals step back into early-stage mode. The competitive program helps 15 founders per class, giving them and their first hires the tools, network, and support to raise capital, commercialize growth, and build a team. Ready to scale with us? Click here to Apply! Why CORE ELP? Because Your Success Is Our Mission The CORE program was a game-changer for us. It opened doors to the right investors, connected us with strategic board members, and helped us scale faster, smarter, and with the right people in our corner. Ty Audronis, Tempest DroneworxFounder, CEO The CORE program was a game-changer for us. It opened doors to the right investors, connected us with strategic board members, and helped us scale faster, smarter, and with the right people in our corner. Ty Audronis, Tempest DroneworxFounder, CEO What Our CORE ELP Founders Are Building SaaS Platforms If you’re using analytics, AI builders, and/or machine learning to connect customers, owners, or transform data, you’re in the right company. Founders in this inaugural cohort are refining their product, scaling their teams, and accelerating adoption. AI Builders If you’re transforming data into actionable insights, streamlining workflows, or empowering better information, our founders are working with us to build the right advisory board, navigate regulatory pathways, and grow their customer... Accelerator Programs LatinTech 2024 Pitch Night Tampa Bay Wave, in partnership with the Tampa Bay Latin Chamber of Commerce, is thrilled to welcome you to the inaugural LatinTech Accelerator 2024 Pitch Night. View Event AcceleratingStartup Success Every startup is unique, which is why our zero-equity accelerator programs are tailored specifically to your business needs and evolve alongside your journey to success. Each accelerator member has access to our growing community of startups, investors, and mentors for advice, coaching, and strategic introductions to accelerate your business growth. We provide structured programming, industry expert mentorship, preparation for investor meetings, and the opportunity to showcase your business with the extensive Wave community. We’re also here for the long haul with year-round support available through our CORE program to ensure your continued success. CyberTechAccelerator Learn more FinTechAccelerator Learn More HealthTechAccelerator Learn more Tech|XAccelerator Learn More Success Stories Refactr Refactr was acquired by cybersecurity leader SOPHOS just months after... Read More LunaJoy LunaJoy is a telehealth startup, based in St. Petersburg, Florida. They are... Read More Harness Harness is an impact-focused financial technology platform that... Read More Ongoing Support with the Wave CORE Program Startups like yours require year-round support and the support of a community to succeed. Our CORE Program provides continuous programming tailored to your needs, along with a vibrant community of entrepreneurs who share your journey. Learn More Portfolio Companies Pillars of Innovation Sponsors Support Us CyberTech|X Accelerator Join the CyberTech|XAccelerator The CyberTech|X Accelerator provides innovative cybersecurity startups with access to strategic support, global networking, and mentorship from industry leaders like our key sponsors and partners at A-LIGN, Bank of America, Thoropass, and Potomac Law Group. Apply Now Notify Me When Applications Open Capital Receive warm introductions to Change to 600+ members of investor network, 250+ mentors. Connections Attend networking events and receive strategic introductions to business prospects, government, and community leaders. Community Connect with cohort startup peers and engage in a range of community events and networking opportunities. Mentor Get coaching and mentorship from our well-vetted community of 220+ subject matter experts. Exposure Take advantage of Wave's robust media and social presence. Showcase your startup at Wave's Pitch Night community event. Perks Gain exclusive annual savings of $100,000+ on startup resources through Morrow and other affiliate partnerships. Criteria For Consideration Early-stage startups utilizing proprietary technology to develop cutting-edge cyber products and solutions Management team with at least two full-time roles Ability to travel to Tampa for a minimum of two visits throughout the program Proof of market validation Investable, scalable business model Well-developed and viable business plan Financial stability with a runway of at least 6-12 months Join the CyberTech|X Accelerator APPLY NOW Key Dates October 13, 2025 Application Opens December 5, 2025 Application Closes January 26, 2026 Kick Off Week March 5, 2026 Pitch Night Strategic Partners Advisory Council Advisory Council Farshad AbasiCo-Founder and CEO / Wave Alumnus Andrew AdamsCEO & President at Tenacious... HealthTech|X Accelerator POWERED BY Join the HealthTech|XAccelerator The HealthTech|X Accelerator is an exclusive program for promising health technology startups ready to scale. With global attention from the healthcare field and the support of our partners, including The Tampa Medical Research District as an ecosystem partner, Tampa Bay Wave’s HealthTech|X Accelerator fosters a dynamic ecosystem revolutionizing healthcare. Apply Here Notify Me Capital Receive warm introductions to Change to 600+ members of investor network, 250+ mentors. Connections Attend networking events and receive strategic introductions to business prospects, government, and community leaders. Community Connect with cohort startup peers and engage in a range of community events and networking opportunities. Mentor Get coaching and mentorship from our well-vetted community of 220+ subject matter experts. Exposure Take advantage of Wave's robust media and social presence. Showcase your startup at Wave's Pitch Night community event. Perks Gain exclusive annual savings of $100,000+ on startup resources through Morrow and other affiliate partnerships. Criteria For Consideration Startup companies built with proprietary technology to create the next generation of health technology solutions and products Management team of at least two full-time positions Capability to travel to Tampa for at least two visits throughout the program Demonstration of market validation Investable, scalable business model Viable business plan Financial runway of at least 6-12 months Join the HealthTech|X Accelerator Apply Now Accelerator Applications Are Currently Closed Thank you for your interest in our Accelerator Program. While applications are currently closed, we’d love to keep you updated. Sign up below, and we’ll... FinTech|X Accelerator Join the FinTech|X Accelerator Tampa Bay Wave's world-class FinTech|X Accelerator supports disruptive startups pioneering new technology solutions in the financial industry. This program is presented in conjunction with our partners at USF Muma College of Business and Kate Tiedemann School of Business and Finance. It is powered by a grant from the U. S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and from the support of our sponsors at Encore Bank, Smiley Technologies, and Shumaker. Apply Now Notify Me When Applications Open Capital Receive warm introductions to Change to 600+ members of investor network, 250+ mentors. Connections Attend networking events and receive strategic introductions to business prospects, government, and community leaders. Community Connect with cohort startup peers and engage in a range of community events and networking opportunities. Mentor Get coaching and mentorship from our well-vetted community of 220+ subject matter experts. Exposure Take advantage of Wave's robust media and social presence. Showcase your startup at Wave's Pitch Night community event. Perks Gain exclusive annual savings of $100,000+ on startup resources through Morrow and other affiliate partnerships. Criteria For Consideration Early-stage startups leveraging proprietary, next-generation financial technology Management team with a minimum of two full-time roles Ability to make at least two visits to Tampa throughout the program Evidence of market validation Investable, scalable business model Viable business plan Financial runway of at least 6-12 months Accelerator Applications Are Open Complete the application by clicking on the link below. Complete Application with Gust Accelerator Applications Are Currently Closed Thank you for... UPCOMING EVENTS 2026 Tech|X Pitch Night Coming Soon December 4, 2025 Coming Soon 2026 CyberTech|X Pitch Night Join us for CyberTech|X Pitch Night! Register Now! 2025 HealthTech|X Pitch Night Join us for HealthTech Pitch Night! Meet top startups transforming healthcare and connect with investors, innovators, and leaders. Register Now! 2025 Tampa Bay Wave Hall of Fame Awards and Fundraiser Celebration @ The Florida Aquarium On December 18, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, join us at the Florida Aquarium rooftop for an unforgettable evening celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact in Tampa Bay’s tech ecosystem. Tampa Bay Wave’s Hall of Fame Awards & Fundraiser honors the trailblazers who’ve shaped our region’s startup success story. Sponsorship opportunities are available—support our mission and gain visibility among Tampa Bay’s top tech and business leaders. Sponsorship Opportunities https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=jpKYh5y9EXc Support Us ## Posts Tampa Bay Wave Welcomes 2026 Tech|X Accelerator Cohort, Powered by the Nielsen Foundation Tampa Bay Wave has launched the ninth cohort of its Tech|X Accelerator, Powered by The Nielsen Foundation, welcoming 15 purpose-driven startups focused on solving real-world challenges through innovation. The 2026 cohort reflects a strong emphasis on technologies that improve accessibility, inclusion and outcomes across health tech, fintech, AI, enterprise automation, sustainability and advanced manufacturing. Founders bring experience from leading organizations, such as Apple, Amazon and Boeing, along with academic backgrounds from institutions, including MIT, Harvard and Oxford. Since 2018, Tech|X alumni have raised more than $375 million and created over 1,600 jobs, reinforcing the program’s role in advancing high-growth, impact-driven companies. That success builds on Tampa Bay Wave’s broader portfolio of more than 650 startups, which have collectively raised over $1. 8 billion and created more than 7,100 jobs. “We are proud to continue our support for the Tech|X Accelerator, which aligns with our mission to advance innovation in technology,” said Andrea Bertels, President and Executive Director of Grantmaking of the Nielsen Foundation. This year’s cohort spans the U. S. and international markets, bringing together a diverse group of founders committed to scaling transformative solutions. Tampa Bay Wave President and CEO Linda Olson noted the program’s continued role in developing the next generation of tech leaders and strengthening the region’s innovation ecosystem. Meet the 2026 Tech|X Cohort: Cabana (New Orleans, LA) Cabana is the first integrated behavioral health platform bridging clinical care and shared human experience to... Regions Foundation Backs 2026 FinTech|X Accelerator Tampa Bay Wave is excited to announce a generous grant from Regions Foundation to support its fifth annual FinTech|X Accelerator. The funding will support the 2026 FinTech|X Accelerator, Tampa Bay Wave's no-cost program designed to help high-growth fintech startups scale faster and smarter. FinTech|X brings together experienced mentors, investors, and industry leaders to work directly with founders. Over the course of a few months, participants refine their business models, access capital, and scale solutions that address real-world financial challenges. Since launching in 2022, the program has supported more than 80 startups, helped create 1,400 jobs, and contributed more than $600 million in investor capital – all the result of what happens when great founders get the right support. This grant from Regions Foundation, a nonprofit funded primarily by Regions Bank, reflects a shared belief that entrepreneurship drives economic opportunity. “Programs like FinTech|X help create jobs, attract investment, and strengthen the innovation economy,” said Marta Self, Regions Foundation Executive Director. Like all Tampa Bay Wave accelerators, FinTech|X is free for qualified participating startups, made possible through philanthropic and corporate support. Applications for the 2026 cohort open at the end of this month, with the program beginning in October. Founders working in payments, financial inclusion, credit education, or risk management are encouraged to apply at https://www. tampabaywave. org/fintech/. Tampa Bay Wave 2026 CyberTech|X Accelerator Cohort Tampa, Fla. , Feb. 05, 2026 - Tampa Bay Wave, Inc. (Wave), a leading nonprofit technology accelerator, proudly announces the selection of 15 high-growth cybersecurity startups for the 2026 CyberTech|X Accelerator program. This year’s cohort includes companies from the Tampa Bay region, across the United States, and internationally, showcasing a broad spectrum of cybersecurity innovation. “Our CyberTech|X Accelerator is designed to meet founders where they are in their business development journey and help them grow with intention,” said Tampa Bay Wave president and CEO Linda Olson. “This year’s cohort brings together founders with extensive experience in cybersecurity, software engineering, AI, and enterprise technology, positioning the cohort to tackle today’s most pressing cybersecurity challenges. ” Collectively, the companies include former executives, serial entrepreneurs, technologists, and cybersecurity practitioners who have worked across leading organizations in the public and private sectors. Their combined expertise spans threat detection, secure systems design, risk management, and innovative technology development. 2026 CyberTech|X Accelerator Accepted Companies: ANCILE – Durham, NC – https://www. ancile. ai ARMAI Technologies – Charlotte, NC – https://armai. ai BestDefense, Inc. – Clearwater, FL – https://bestdefense. io Confidencial – Menlo Park, CA – https://www. confidencial. io/ Flowchestra – Chicago, IL – https://flowchestra. com Fr0ntierX – Brooklyn, NY – https://www. fr0ntierx. com/ ProSentra, Inc – Gulfport, MS – https://prosentra. com/ RangersAI – Boca Raton, FL – https://www. rangersai. com/ RevEng. AI – London, UK – https://reveng. ai RTScale AI. – Pinecrest, FL – rtscale. ai SafeHill – Chicago, IL – www. safehill. com Signet– London, UK – https://getsignet. xyz/ ThreatMate- Tampa, FL – https://www....       Tampa Bay Wave and USF Launch 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator Cohort Nationally Recognized Accelerator Returns to Tampa Bay, Powering Fintech’s Future TAMPA, Fla. – August 12, 2025 – Tampa Bay Wave, in partnership with the University of South Florida’s Muma College of Business, launches the highly anticipated 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator, a nationally recognized program that supports high-growth fintech startups from across the U. S. and beyond. Now in its fourth year, the FinTech|X Accelerator has become a premier launchpad for high-potential, early-stage fintech companies. Startups that have participated in the program have collectively raised over $300 million in funding and generated over $60 million in revenue. Notable alumni include Paperstack, Viva Finance and Ascent. Backed by leading financial institutions and fintech experts, the accelerator is designed to help startups accelerate growth, attract investment and scale innovative solutions that are reshaping the future of finance. The 2025 cohort, officially kicked off on Aug. 4, brings together an elite group of startups that are reimagining banking, payments, blockchain, wealthtech, crypto and more. Selected companies will participate in an intensive 8-week program that includes mentoring from industry leaders, investor connections, pitch opportunities and curated programming aimed at accelerating success. 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator Cohort: Artificial Intelligence Risk – Greenwich, CT - https://www. aicrisk. com/ Catch It – Atlanta, GA - https://www. didyoucatchit. com/ Congruit Inc. - St. Petersburg, FL - https://congruitcredit. com Cove – Toronto, ON - https://cove. dev/ Cyder Inc. - Toronto, ON - https://www. getcyder. com/ AI - St. Petersburg,...   Tampa Bay Wave Officially Launches New HealthTech|X Accelerator with 16 Innovative Startups TAMPA, FL (June 4, 2025) - Tampa Bay Wave, Inc. (Wave), a nonprofit technology accelerator named the #1 Accelerator in Florida is excited to unveil the selection of 16 dynamic companies for the 2025 HealthTech|X Accelerator. This program is supported by a generous grant from the U. S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and is sponsored in part by The Florida High Tech Corridor, USF Research & Innovation, USF Health Center for Advanced Medical Learning and Simulation (CAMLS), the national law firm of Foley & Lardner, and Levo Health — with additional support from Thoropass and Insight Assurance. Linda Olson, CEO of Tampa Bay Wave, expressed her enthusiasm for this year’s program: "With this year’s HealthTech|X Accelerator, we’re building on Tampa Bay’s growing momentum as a national leader at the intersection of healthcare and technology. Thanks to the unwavering support of our sponsors and partners, we’re empowering a new class of healthtech innovators whose impact will be felt far beyond our region. This program also reinforces the Tampa Medical and Research District’s position as a destination for cutting-edge research, clinical excellence, and transformative innovation. " Tampa Bay Wave 2025 HealthTech|X Accelerator Selected Companies: ACT Medical - Cambridge, UK - actmedical. co. uk Architect Health - East Windsor, NJ, USA - https://www. getarchitecthealth. com/ Asante Bio - Tampa, FL, USA - https://asantebio. com/ CurieDx - Baltimore, MD, USA - https://www. curiedx. com/ Endless Health- Austin, TX, USA - https://www.... At Tampa Bay Wave, we believe the most impactful startups don’t just build companies, they solve real-world problems with bold vision and relentless execution. This week, we’re highlighting two amazing updates from Wave startups that are making serious waves in their respective sectors: Nufi, a Colombian fintech startup tackling one of Latin America’s most pressing financial challenges, and SkyTL (powered by Improving Aviation), a Tampa-based startup that helps agencies, insurers, and responders prepare for and respond to natural disasters and other high risk events.   Nufi: Building a Transparent Financial Future for Latin America In Latin America, fragmented financial data is a daily hurdle for businesses, accountants, and financial teams. Imagine managing dozens of accounts across different banks, platforms, and reporting standards, without a centralized way to make sense of it all. That’s the gap Nufi is filling. Nufi offers a powerful financial data consolidation platform that allows businesses to automatically sync, standardize, and visualize their financial operations in real-time. In essence, Nufi is building the financial nervous system that Latin American companies have long needed. Nufi just announced that they raised a $1. 5M seed round led by Magma Partners and GPCompas, two of the most influential VC firms in Latin America. With over 70 clients already on board, including accounting firms and financial advisors, Nufi is scaling quickly and strategically. How it Works: Integrates with banks, ERPs, and accounting platforms  Cleans and consolidates fragmented financial data Generates centralized dashboards for faster business decisions  Why Nufi is Making Waves:... Coaching the Future: What 11th Graders Taught Wave About Innovation How Tampa Bay Wave teamed up with Junior Achievement to inspire the next generation of change-makers. A post by Tampa Bay Wave Team member, Prathyusha Reddy.   Spring in Tampa Bay isn’t just about sunshine and spring break, it's also a season of big ideas and even bigger dreams. This April, the Tampa Bay Wave team had the incredible privilege of joining Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay’s 3DE Innovators Showcase, a celebration of student entrepreneurship and creativity that left us all inspired, energized, and more hopeful than ever about the future of innovation in our region. A huge shoutout to the Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay’s team especially Christina Roberts & Olivier Millour for thinking of Wave and inviting us to be a part of this journey. Additionally, thank you to Raymond James for sponsoring this amazing event. Opportunities like these remind us why our mission goes far beyond startups, it’s about building a stronger innovation ecosystem from the ground up. Pitch Coaching: Where the Magic Began Before the big day, the journey started, and as all good stories do - with a spark. That spark came in the form of pitch coaching sessions led by our very own Wave staff and mentors at Hillsborough High School, Chamberlain High School, and Tenoroc High School. Shoutout to our amazing team members Matthew Ymiolek, Gregory Pierce, and Prathyusha Reddy (Myself), and our mentor extraordinaires Liza Marie Garcia & Vanessa Maternowski.   We... Big Wins for Wave Companies: Redactable, Delorean AI, and Kind Designs Making Headlines At Tampa Bay Wave, it is always a thrill to spotlight the momentum of our portfolio companies. Here are two exciting updates from this week that Wave is proud to share First up, a massive congratulations to Venteur, a standout from our 2022 Tech Accelerator program, for securing a $20 million round of funding! This is a huge win, and will lead to even further growth of their incredible company. Venteur is revolutionizing the health benefits space with its innovative platform that enables employers to offer personalized, flexible health coverage through Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs). By giving employees the power to choose the right plan for their needs, Venteur is creating a smarter, more equitable approach to healthcare benefits. This funding marks a major milestone for the company—and a proud moment for Tampa Bay Wave as one of our portfolio companies continue to grow, scale, and drive national impact. “Health benefits shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all,” says CEO Stacy Edgar. “At Venteur, we believe in personal choice and making the system work for everyone. ” Congratulations to the team at Venteur on this well-devereved milestone!   Wave is also celebrating Tukki, a current participant in our Tech|X Accelerator program, for being selected as one of the Top 25 presenting startups at eMerge Americas 2025! Tukki took the stage in Miami to pitch their innovative tech solution, representing not only Wave but the rising strength of Florida’s technology...   Startups Making Waves: Redactable, Delorean AI, and Kind Designs Shine Bright Welcome to Startups Making Waves, our weekly update on the Wave startups that are making huge moves, grabbing headlines, and pushing boundaries across industries. From groundbreaking AI applications to bluetech innovation, Tampa Bay Wave companies are scaling fast and building a better future—and we’re here to celebrate every win. At Tampa Bay Wave, we don’t just support startups—we support game-changers. Our mission is to accelerate the growth of high-potential tech companies and help them scale with impact. Right now, our Wave companies are doing just that, making impressive strides across sectors like legal tech, healthcare AI, and sustainable infrastructure. Here’s a closer look at three wins from Wave companies this week that are innovating, growing, and getting the recognition they deserve. Redactable Launches on Product Hunt and Gains Momentum Redactable, a Wave company that’s transforming how sensitive documents are handled, recently made its debut on Product Hunt. The AI-powered platform allows users to redact documents securely, automatically, and at scale—solving a major pain point for legal teams, government agencies, and enterprises that regularly deal with sensitive data. Their Product Hunt launch marks a major milestone in Redactable’s journey, introducing the platform to a broader tech-savvy audience and generating buzz among early adopters and cybersecurity professionals. Redactable’s intuitive workflow and compliance-first approach make it a standout in a world where data privacy and protection are more critical than ever. Want to support a Wave company making redaction easier and... This week, three standout startups from the Tampa Bay Wave community are making headlines across the country. From national media spotlights to strategic partnerships, these companies are pushing boundaries and gaining serious traction. Here’s a look at what’s new: Kind Designs to Be Featured in CBS & Paramount+ Series Kind Designs shared the exciting news that they will be part of the upcoming Visioneering series, premiering April 5th on CBS and Paramount+! Hosted by Zay Harding, this global “eco-adventure” explores how groundbreaking technologies are tackling environmental challenges and shaping a more sustainable future. Kind Designs will showcase its 3D-printed “Living Seawalls,” highlighting how cities like Miami are playing a major role in bluetech innovation. Don’t miss this major moment for #MiamiTech and #3DPrinting! Follow this link for a sneak peek at the series! 🫀 Future Cardia in Conversation with Kevin O’Leary (aka Mr. Wonderful) Future Cardia CEO Jaeson Bang sat down with investor and TV personality Kevin O’Leary for an exclusive conversation about the company’s groundbreaking work in cardiac monitoring. Future Cardia is leading the way with implantable devices that offer real-time, comprehensive cardiac insights. With 39 successful human implants and over 60,000 hours of cardiac data already collected, the technology is catching the eye of both healthcare leaders and investors. ▶ Watch the full discussion on YouTube Smart Eye Technology Partners to Prevent Bank Fraud Smart Eye Technology has announced a strategic partnership with Finov8r to help community banks combat fraud. By bringing Smart Eye’s biometric security platform to smaller... February 27, 2025 Tampa Bay's innovation ecosystem just took a significant leap onto the global stage! We're thrilled to announce that Tampa Bay Wave has officially partnered with the University of East London (UEL) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on February 20, 2025. Wave was honored to host a group of individuals representing UEL at our Downtown Tampa office to make this partnership official, and partake in a critical discussion about how to maximize the impact of this partnership.   Building Bridges Across the Atlantic This exciting collaboration establishes a strategic partnership between two dynamic innovation hubs, creating new pathways for startups, mentors, and innovators to thrive both in Tampa Bay and abroad. The partnership will facilitate international business growth by providing startups with soft-landing opportunities, mentorship networks, and access to new markets on both sides of the Atlantic. Dr. Richard Munassi, Director at Tampa Bay Wave, emphasized the significance of this partnership: "This MOU between Tampa Bay Wave and the University of East London represents a significant step forward in our mission to continue to elevate Tampa Bay's fast moving technology and innovation ecosystem. Together the Wave and UEL are creating new pathways for entrepreneurs and innovators to thrive in our region and abroad. " Expanding Global Opportunities The collaboration comes at a perfect time as Tampa Bay's technology scene continues to flourish. By connecting with UEL—a forward-thinking institution serving over 25,000 students from 156 different nationalities—Wave startups will gain access to one of Europe's most diverse... February 27, 2025 A Night of Cybersecurity Innovation On February 25th, Tampa Bay Wave's fifth annual CyberTech|X Program concluded with an incredible pitch night at CAMLS that will truly go down in Wave history! Fifteen innovative companies showcased cutting-edge solutions to pressing cybersecurity challenges that impact everyone—from industry experts to everyday users. The evening embodied everything that Tampa Bay Wave stands for: innovation, collaboration, and connection! These 15 forward-thinking companies have now completed their Tampa Bay Wave accelerator journey, equipped with the tools for tremendous success. Throughout the program, founders benefited from strategic mentorship connections, access to our curated investor network, introductions to critical ecosystem members in Tampa Bay, and the opportunity to develop valuable camaraderie with fellow entrepreneurs. The electric atmosphere at the event highlighted Tampa Bay's growing prominence as a cybersecurity hub, with each founder delivering a compelling pitch that captivated the audience and generated tremendous excitement about their future potential. Star-Studded Expertise The evening featured compelling insights from an impressive lineup of speakers, including keynote presenter Colonel Jarret Mathews, who shared valuable perspectives on the evolving cybersecurity landscape. Wave portfolio CEOs Corey White (Cyvatar) and Chris Rohe (GuardianSat) also took the stage, offering inspiration and strategic wisdom drawn from their own successful journeys through the Tampa Bay Wave ecosystem. These industry leaders emphasized the critical importance of cybersecurity innovation in today's increasingly connected world and reinforced Tampa Bay's position as a fertile ground for technology startups. Meet Our CyberTech|X Companies This remarkable cohort presented solutions addressing some... We're thrilled to announce our newest CyberTech|X Accelerator cohort – 15 innovative cybersecurity startups ready to transform the industry! This diverse group brings together ambitious founders from across the United States and the United Kingdom, underlining Tampa Bay's emergence as a global cybersecurity hub. Our 2025 cohort represents the cutting edge of cybersecurity innovation, with solutions ranging from zero-trust frameworks to advanced AI applications. These founders bring exceptional expertise from tech giants like Meta, Google, and Cisco, as well as leading institutions including Johns Hopkins and Berkeley.   Meet our 2025 CyberTech|X cohort: ApiaryX (Jacksonville, FL) ApiaryX empowers families with AI-driven cybersecurity, gamified education, and real-time guidance to navigate the digital world safety. Founder(s): Catherine Karow  Follow them on LinkedIn!   Breacher (Orlando, FL) Provides deepfake red teaming and awareness training to help organizations defend against emerging threats with knowledge. Founder(s): Jason Thatcher Follow them on LinkedIn!   Clox (San Francisco, CA) AI platform that detects fraudulent documents, extracts insights, and enables streamlined workflows. Founder(s): Praveen Mamidi   Cyntegra (London, U. K. ) Patented technology ensures rapid recovery from ransomware and advanced cyberattacks, minimizing disruption and cost. Founder(s): Giles Watkins, Maria Vachino Follow them on LinkedIn!   Fairo (Newton, MA) SaaS platform offering expert Responsible AI consulting, delivering top-tier insights without hiring a consultant. Founder(s): George Chamoun Follow them on LinkedIn   Gaming Zero Trust (Philadelphia, PA) AI-powered platform centralizing cybersecurity policies, assessing risks, and automating policy implementation. Founder(s): Erin Christ, Ronald Hurry Follow them on LinkedIn!   Guardare Inc.... FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Tampa Bay Wave and USF Launch 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator Cohort Nationally Recognized Accelerator Returns to Tampa Bay, Powering Fintech’s Future TAMPA, Fla. – August 12, 2025 – Tampa Bay Wave, in partnership with the University of South Florida’s Muma College of Business, launches the highly anticipated 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator, a nationally recognized program that supports high-growth fintech startups from across the U. S. and beyond. Now in its fourth year, the FinTech|X Accelerator has become a premier launchpad for high-potential, early-stage fintech companies. Startups that have participated in the program have collectively raised over $300 million in funding and generated over $60 million in revenue. Notable alumni include Paperstack, Viva Finance and Ascent. Backed by leading financial institutions and fintech experts, the accelerator is designed to help startups accelerate growth, attract investment and scale innovative solutions that are reshaping the future of finance. The 2025 cohort, officially kicked off on Aug. 4, brings together an elite group of startups that are reimagining banking, payments, blockchain, wealthtech, crypto and more. Selected companies will participate in an intensive 8-week program that includes mentoring from industry leaders, investor connections, pitch opportunities and curated programming aimed at accelerating success. 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator Accepted Companies: Artificial Intelligence Risk – Greenwich, CT - https://www. aicrisk. com/ Catch It – Atlanta, GA - https://www. didyoucatchit. com/ Congruit Inc. - St. Petersburg, FL - https://congruitcredit. com Cove – Toronto, ON - https://cove. dev/ Cyder Inc. - Toronto, ON - https://www. getcyder. com/ HappiNest. AI -... The energy was electric at Raymond James Stadium as the Tampa Bay Wave community came together for our sold-out Hall of Fame Fundraiser and Celebration, showcasing the remarkable growth and vitality of our ecosystem here in Tampa Bay. The evening was packed with invigorating speakers, meaningful connections, groundbreaking founders, and a whole lot of fun!   NFL veteran and accomplished entrepreneur Ryan Nece captivated the audience with his keynote address, setting an inspiring tone for the evening. A highlight of the celebration was honoring Tony DiBenedetto as our inaugural Tampa Bay Tech Legend, recognizing his transformative impact on our technology landscape. Wave proudly welcomed an exceptional group of innovators into the Tampa Bay Wave Hall of Fame, with companies recognized across five tiers of achievement: The evening also celebrated Andy Bennett and Madeline Dent as our Mentors of the Year, acknowledging their outstanding commitment to guiding emerging entrepreneurs. Their dedication exemplifies the collaborative spirit that drives our community forward. This magnificent evening was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors, silent auction donors, and table sponsors. Your investment in Tampa Bay Wave's mission enables us to continue providing crucial resources, mentorship, and opportunities to ambitious entrepreneurs who are building the future of technology in our region. As we reflect on this extraordinary celebration and set our sights on 2025, Tampa Bay's technology ecosystem stands in an exciting moment. Our region isn't simply experiencing growth – we're witnessing a transformation that's reshaping Florida's innovation landscape. The electric atmosphere at... Tampa Bay Wave is proud to announce we will be launching a new BlueTech Accelerator in the summer of 2025 in order to help Florida develop a stronger BlueTech ecosystem. This program is made possible because of a new $14 million grant from NOAA, awarded to Tampa Bay Wave and six other partners in a groundbreaking partnership called The Continuum. This partnership is a transformative national initiative funded by the recently awarded NOAA Ocean Enterprise Accelerators grant. Wave is proud to partner with: Braid Theory Ocean Exchange St. Pete Innovation District Seaworthy Collective University of South Florida World Ocean Council "By leveraging cross-industry expertise from sectors like FinTech and CyberTech, we can address the pressing challenges of resiliency and ocean sustainability with groundbreaking technologies that are tested and ready to launch in a receptive market," says Linda Olson, CEO of Tampa Bay Wave. Our Role in The Continuum In this partnership, we will leverage our world-class accelerator model and extensive tech community to advance innovative BlueTech solutions. As Florida's leading tech accelerator with over a decade of experience supporting 550+ startups that have collectively raised more than $1 billion, Tampa Bay Wave is uniquely positioned to help drive The Continuum's success. Our proven acceleration model, which has successfully launched programs in FinTech, CyberTech, and other sectors, will now be applied to the critical BlueTech space, combining our extensive mentor network, established partnerships, and deep connections to the Florida tech ecosystem. Our strategic location in a major coastal region provides unique...   Smart Ways to Give Before 2024 Ends to Impact 2025Would it surprise you to learn that you can finish this year with a gift that maximizes your charitable impact and saves you money on taxes? Your gift will support innovation and entrepreneurship in 2025 as well. See how with the smart options below.   Make an Immediate DifferenceWhen you support Tampa Bay Wave’s mission by: (1) writing and mailing a check, (2) making a pledge on our online portal or, (3) simply by texting the keyword WAVE to #26989, you make great things happen and may receive a federal income tax charitablededuction. If you itemize, you can write off the amount you are donating, resulting in lower taxable income. Unsure of whether your gift is tax-deductible? Contact your financial advisor or tax consultant.   The deadline: Your on-line or text contribution must be entered or your envelope for a mailed check must be postmarked by the U. S. Postal Service on or before Dec. 31st for your donation to qualify this year.   Use Appreciated SecuritiesBy donating appreciated securities that you have owned for more than one year, you receive the same income tax savings as you would by making a gift of cash. You also eliminate any tax on the appreciated value.   Your deadline: If the securities are electronically transferred to us, the gift date is the day the securities enter our account—not the date you ask your broker to make the transfer.   Contribute to Your Donor Advised Fund (DAF)...   -FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- The Continuum: Future-Proofing Florida and the Nation  by Revolutionizing BlueTech Acceleration The Continuum Launches with $13. 9M NOAA Grant to Advance BlueTech Solutions in Florida and Beyond Seven Powerhouses Unite to Accelerate Breakthrough Solutions for Ocean and Environmental Resilience TAMPA, FL (December 10, 2024) – Seven leading entrepreneur support organizations from across the United States are joining forces to tackle critical challenges impacting our oceans, coastal communities, and economy. This powerful collaboration is made possible thanks to $13. 9 million awarded by the NOAA Ocean Enterprise Accelerators program. As a result, Braid Theory, Ocean Exchange, St. Pete Innovation District, Seaworthy Collective, Tampa Bay Wave, University of South Florida, and World Ocean Council are proud to announce the launch of The Continuum. This groundbreaking partnership model is poised to set the national standard for BlueTech and blue economy accelerator programs, serving as a blueprint to advance innovative ocean and environmentally friendly data solutions, making them more scalable, efficient, and interconnected.   The Continuum will redefine commercialization programs by creating a coordinated network of ocean enterprise accelerators to fast-track innovative technologies and data, prioritizing sustainable development goals, economic growth, and innovation leadership to leverage Florida’s position as a coastal and ocean resilience hub. By 2028, this initiative aims to drive advancements in renewable energy, pollution control, hazard mitigation, and ecosystem services while providing a “continuum” of support for hundreds of BlueTech startups. The effort bridges collaboration between industry leaders and research institutions, making resources and guidance freely available... Super Power Commercializing New, Novel, and Transformative Solutions - specifically for the Government Ecosystem (Dual Use Tech)Government Contracting, Acquisition, & Program Execution Business Development & Strategy (Capture Management and Pursuit Qualification) Mr. Rohe is the President/Co-Founder of Rogue Industries® and CEO/Co-Founder of GuardianSat™. Mr. Rohe provides an in-depth understanding of commercializing technologies for the business and government arena for multi-billion efforts with specific experience and expertise as a catalyst, thought leader, and innovator for new, novel, and transformative methods to seamlessly accelerate solutions focusing on: NextGen IT, Communications, Sensors, AI, Advanced Manufacturing/Construction, and Novel Testing/Training solutions with both government, DoD, and private industry accolades. As a business leader and certified general contractor Mr. Rohe has completed over 100 large scale government projects and development efforts of impact since 2000 for critical focus and priority programs. Mr. Rohe’s academic excellence is demonstrated in his honors as a top graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, A Master Degree in Public Policy from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of government as well as earning Graduate Certificates in Business and Government Relations from Georgetown University’s The Fund for American Studies and advanced certificates in AI, IP/Patent Law, and Computational Thinking from UPenn Engineering. Mr. Rohe retired with over 20 years of services as an active duty and reserve officer in the USAF culminating with a Meritorious Service Medal for his leadership in the Test and Training Enterprise for advanced aircraft, communications, spectrum relocation, sensors, seekers, and platforms. He has achieved DoD certifications in... Super Power Key skills: corporate financial planning & analysis, budget management, revenue forecasting, business metrics and analytics, board level presentations, controllership, financial operations (credit, billing & collections), investments analysis, accounting (IFRS/US Gaap), tax planning & operations, internal controls and Sox compliance. Highly effective financial executive with over 25 years of experience in finance, operations, regulatory compliance, systems implementation. Consistently recognized for value-added contributions to the business. Proven success leading the implementation of financial systems and process redesign including complete ERP solutions, as well as Order-to-cash operations (consumer & B2B). Proven ability building the necessary foundation and then leading smaller organizations into global, multi-billion dollar business. Track record of developing highly efficient and professional global teams, leveraging lower offshore teams that deliver high value at lower cost. Mr. Rohe’s academic excellence is demonstrated in his honors as a top graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, A Master Degree in Public Policy from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of government as well as earning Graduate Certificates in Business and Government Relations from Georgetown University’s The Fund for American Studies and advanced certificates in AI, IP/Patent Law, and Computational Thinking from UPenn Engineering. Mr. Rohe retired with over 20 years of services as an active duty and reserve officer in the USAF culminating with a Meritorious Service Medal for his leadership in the Test and Training Enterprise for advanced aircraft, communications, spectrum relocation, sensors, seekers, and platforms. He has achieved DoD certifications in numerous advanced programs and held all the requisite levels... Super Power Super Power I served in the Army for 26 years and retired in 2022 as a Special Forces colonel. During that time I deployed operationally ten times including 9 trips to Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. I had lots of practice building teams, leading in crisis, and developing others. Since retiring from the Army I have spent time teaching leadership to business managers and consulting for startup CEOs. Super Power Leadership - achieving results by creating environments where people thrive. Any endeavor involving more that one person depends the team's ability to work well together in order to achieve the desired results. That makes people an organization's most important resource, and I'm passionate about maximizing people's potential. I can help with individual leadership coaching, culture development, organizational development, organizational processes, and hiring considerations. Super Power As a seasoned technology leader with over 25 years of transformative technology leadership, I have overseen intricate technological landscapes across diverse sectors, including healthcare, finance, and technology. Throughout my career, I have cultivated a strategic approach, driving revenue growth, surpassing performance targets, and elevating customer satisfaction through adept relationship management. My expertise extends to proficient team leadership, fostering environments of heightened productivity, elevated morale, and positive work cultures. Demonstrating a proven track record in achieving substantial business outcomes, I excel in managing P&L effectively, ensuring financial stewardship aligned with organizational objectives. Here is a breakdown of my business and technical skills:Business Leadership Skills: Sales Leadership and Strategy, Strategic Planning for Technology Innovation, Effective Relationship Building, Financial Stewardship, Effective P&L Management, Risk Mitigation, Governance, Digital Literacy, Disruptive Thinking, ForecastingIndustry Knowledge: Go-to-Market Strategy and Execution, Thought Leadership, Healthcare Subject Matter Expertise, Sales Process Optimization, Digital Transformation, SDLC Management, Agile Development Principles, Regulatory Compliance, Vendor ManagementTechnology and Software: Salesforce CRM, Cloud Services, General Purpose Technologies (GPT), Emerging Technologies, Digital Innovations, Enterprise Solutions, Infrastructure Design, Data Strategy, IT Service Management (ITSM) I am an accomplished transformational leader, strategist, and technologist with over 25 years of experience in managing complex technological landscapes across healthcare, finance, and technology sectors. Currently serving as the Vice President & Healthcare & Life Sciences Global Practice Leader at Globant, specializing in digital transformation, software development, and innovation. In my role at Globant, I have successfully implemented technology strategies aligned with client business goals, resulting in significant cost reduction... Super Power Vertical experience: Digital healthcare, Smart/Connected Devices, Connected/Smart Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability/EHS/SERCompetencies: business strategy development and business model innovation, product roadmaps, software development and operations, strategic alliances, joint ventures, global organization design, new product introduction, market research, product-market fit, acquisitions and divestiture, business development. Jitendra Khare is a Director of Information Technology at Jabil, one of the world's largest manufacturers with a $30 billion revenue, over 100 factories worldwide and a global workforce of 200K+ employees. Jitendra manages a global organization responsible for helping Jabil in its digital transformation journey. His organization has been at the vanguard of building digital platforms and solutions that is enabling creation of new digital revenue streams via innovative business models. Throughout his career, Jitendra has held leadership roles where he was responsible for software product strategy as well as building and operating software products that brought in multimillion dollar revenues. He has a deep passion for working on game changing products - he was a part of the human genome project, contributing to the development of a genomic knowledge platform. Jitendra also has an entrepreneurial streak and was handpicked by a Tampa Bay start up incubator to help fast track his healthcare MVP. His pedigree is from the world's most innovative companies in their industries, including Deloitte & Touche, Progressive Insurance, Nielsen and Raymond James. He has Masters' degrees in Civil Engineering and Computer Science and an Executive MBA. Super Power Finance and Business Services Professionally Certified in Business Strategy and Project Management, with a formal education and background in finance. Super Power Government contracting, leadership, female leadership Former owner and CEO of a woman-owned, woman-led business in the Defense and Federal government services industry, now the Chief Growth Officer of a tribally-owned organization. Engaged community leader and non-profit board member in Tampa and nationally. DaVinci Wearables: Innovating Women’s Health Tech DaVinci Wearables uses innovative wearable tech and a proprietary, intuitive app to provide active females with comprehensive tracking of menstrual cycles and vital physiological data. The platform empowers users with sport-specific recommendations driven by AI and adaptive guidance for everyday wellness and peak performance, epitomizing Tampa Bay Wave's commitment to supporting health tech innovations that elevate quality of life. Ascent: Transforming How Financial Data Works Ascent’s cutting-edge platform is revolutionizing data utilization for financial institutions. This next-gen tool empowers organizations to elevate customer service by securely sharing internal and external data bidirectionally. Ascent's impact on underwriting and diligence is profound, digitizing workflows and enhancing efficiency. Selected for the Tampa Bay Wave Fintech|X 2023 Accelerator, Ascent demonstrates its commitment to transforming the financial industry. Pulse Charter Connect: Revolutionizing Healthcare Logistics Ascent’s cutting-edge platform is revolutionizing data utilization for financial institutions. This next-gen tool empowers organizations to elevate customer service by securely sharing internal and external data bidirectionally. Ascent's impact on underwriting and diligence is profound, digitizing workflows and enhancing efficiency. Selected for the Tampa Bay Wave Fintech|X 2023 Accelerator, Ascent demonstrates its commitment to transforming the financial industry. Super Power Featured in Tampa Bay Business and Wealth Tampa Bay Wave, supported by a grant from the U. S. Economic Development Administration, has opened the applications portal for its inaugural 2024 HealthTech|X Accelerator program. Read More On Tampa Bay Business and Wealth With the support of U. S. Representative Kathy Castor, Wave is proud to announce $500,000 in new federal funding to launch the LatinTech Accelerator in partnership with the Tampa Bay Latin Chamber!  This initiative will drive economic growth and mobility, and further promote diversity and inclusivity throughout Tampa Bay’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by removing barriers for Latino founders and helping them build high-growth tech startups. The unique 90-day program is designed exclusively for companies that are 51% owned, controlled, and operated by founders of Latin heritage. In 2021, startups with Latino founders in the U. S. received just 2. 1% of the nation’s venture capital funding. With significant diversity gaps among tech founders, this first-of-its-kind program will bridge the growing disparity and heighten the representation of Latino founders in the tech sector. “Tampa Bay Wave is grateful for Congresswoman Castor’s ongoing support of initiatives like our LatinTech Accelerator project that fosters inclusive innovation-driven economic growth and high-wage job creation in our region. This program will fill a critical gap in Florida’s startup ecosystem by helping a demographically important but under-represented segment of tech entrepreneurs here and across the U. S. Given Tampa Bay Wave’s long history of promoting diversity and equity in our region’s tech startup ecosystem, we know this funding can help us make a meaningful difference in the growth and success of Latin-owned startups - including those in strategically important industries such as cybersecurity, fintech, healthtech, edtech, climate tech, and more,” says Linda Olson, Founder and CEO, Tampa Bay Wave.... Built for Founders, Fueled By Community As we close another impactful year, I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone in our Tampa Bay Wave community. Your ongoing support and engagement have been pivotal in empowering tech startup founders amidst their journey of building and scaling innovative solutions. This collective effort not only advances the ventures of individual entrepreneurs but also significantly bolsters our local economy, fostering job creation, economic expansion, and solidifying Tampa Bay's reputation as a premier tech hub. Together, we've created an environment where founders flourish without the pressure of equity loss, thanks to our Community-Fueled Accelerator. Your commitment to fostering a dynamic, inclusive tech ecosystem in Tampa Bay and beyond has had a profound effect, both on the success of entrepreneurs and on the vibrancy and growth of our community. Significant Milestones 2023 has been a year of significant milestones and expansion for Tampa Bay Wave. As we celebrated our ten-year anniversary, we also proudly opened a new venture center in Tampa and an extension office at Thrive DTSP in St. Petersburg. These new facilities symbolize our commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, offering vibrant spaces for collaboration and growth. The Impact Numbers Say It All Reflecting on a decade of progress, it's remarkable to note that since our inception, startups in our accelerator programs have raised a staggering $850 million, demonstrating the vast potential and impact of the businesses we support. Additionally, these startups have created over 5,000 jobs, in part, contributing to the economic vitality of... Tampa Bay Wave is proud to announce our 2023 Board of Directors, led by Santo Cannone, former COO of Connectwise. With the support of our community and this brilliant group of individuals, Wave has the opportunity to grow upon the solid foundation we built over the past decade. Through our world-class accelerator programs, we are excited to zero in on this inflection point by developing regional innovation clusters that will enhance Tampa Bay’s tech ecosystem and drive sustainable economic development. Thank you to Wave's 2023 Board for helping us to achieve this mission! “Wave’s Board embodies the expertise, imagination and commitment of the Tampa Bay tech ecosystem. Wave has been an integral part of Tampa Bay’s emergence as a tech powerhouse. Our Board is committed to Wave continuing to add value to our local early stage companies and to projecting our region’s value outside of our area. ” - 2023 Chair Santo Cannone. 2023 Executive Committee  Board Chair - Santo Cannone, Connectwise President / CEO - Linda Olson, Tampa Bay Wave Vice President - Alfred Goldberg, Absolute Marketing Solutions Secretary - Madeline Dent, Intel Treasurer - Catherine Wilhelm, CBIZ MHM Program Strategy Committee Chair - Kailah Matyas, Redwood Partners Fundraising Committee Chair - Kostas Stoilas, Fortress Commercial Real Estate Sustainability Committee Chair - Greg Celestan, Celestar Corporation Governance & Ethics Committee Chair - Diana Hayes, Trenam Law Immediate Past Chair - Charlotte Baker, Digital Hands  2023 Board of Directors Marcus Adolfsson, TampaBay. Ventures Rob Brown, Ernest & Young (EY) Kathy... Tampa Bay Wave is proud to announce that our longtime sponsor, the Nielsen Foundation, has committed to an additional three years of funding for the TechDiversity Accelerator, which supports diversity and inclusion in the tech startup industry across Tampa Bay and beyond. Powered by the Nielsen Foundation since its inception in 2018, this unique 90-day program supports high-growth early-stage tech startups that are 51% owned, controlled, and operated by underrepresented founders. This multi-year commitment will continue to build the program and support the high-growth diverse-led tech startups participating in the 2023, 2024, and 2025 TechDiversity Accelerator cohorts. This extremely competitive program selects participants among hundreds of applications from across the United States and abroad; previous TechDiversity members hailed from over 120 cities, representing nearly all 50 states and 30 countries!   Thank you to the Nielsen Foundation for their generous support! We look forward to seeing how this multi-year commitment will continue to drive social and economic change by advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion within the entrepreneurial tech ecosystem. To commemorate this ongoing partnership with the Nielsen Foundation, we would like to recognize several successful TechDiversity startups that embody the mission of this program. Join us in celebrating the achievements of innovative founders disrupting their respective industries and solving real-world problems to create a brighter future for all! NeuroFlow (2019 TechDiversity Accelerator) NeuroFlow, a leading integrated behavioral health platform, joined the Wave community as a member of the 2019 TechDiversity Accelerator. In 2022, the Veteran-founded healthtech company secured a... Welcome Tampa Bay Wave’s newest team member, Daylyn Randolph! Daylyn is interning with Tampa Bay Wave this summer, thanks to a very special program, called the Tech Fellows program, run by Florida State University's Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (C. A. R. E. ) and Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement (C. R. E. ). This unique program exposes first-generation students to the daily task of product development, entrepreneurship, and ecosystem building. Daylyn is a proud member of the 2022 Tech Fellows cohort. He attends Florida State University (FSU) and plans to graduate in spring of 2024 with a degree in business management. During his internship, he will be researching the best practices of accelerators and incubators, and designing a strategic initiative for first-generation students interested in entrepreneurship at FSU. He will be honing in on the Wave’s robust mentor network to guide him in developing this trailblazing program. He is also interested in learning more about fintech companies and how their growing influence impacts low-income communities. Daylyn is both a creative and an aspiring entrepreneur. In his spare time, he likes to create podcasts on his channel, DayLee Talks. He is also a self-published author, his book is titled, I Learned From You, containing a collection of poems. We asked Daylyn why he’s looking forward to his internship, “I am excited to be an intern at Tampa Bay Wave this summer, surrounded by exceptional professionals. I seek to observe the developmental timeline of founders and their companies.... FinTech|X Startup Accelerator Tampa Bay Wave and the University of South Florida Muma College of Business are proud to announce the FinTech|X 2022 Accelerator! Thanks to this exciting new partnership, the highly specialized 90-day accelerator is attracting the most innovative fintech startups from across the U. S. to the region, turning Tampa Bay into a fintech hotspot and driving economic development! The 2022 FinTech|X cohort is welcoming 16 high-growth fintech startups from across the United States and abroad, including companies from Israel, England, Saudi Arabia, and Germany. This cohort is incredibly diverse, with significant representation from military veterans, and LBGTQ+, minority and women founders. The cohort includes many serial entrepreneurs, some with prior exits. They have collectively raised over $15 million in early-stage financing from top tier venture capital firms. Participating companies will benefit from the Tampa Bay Wave’s FinTech|X Advisory Council, made up of financial tech experts from Wave’s Mentor Network, as well as representatives from the program’s funding partners and other fintech experts. Members of the 2022 FinTech|X Advisory Council include: Sean Connors, Kelverion Microsoft Azure Automation Consultant - USF FinTech Center Jim Giacobbe, President & CEO - United Solutions Company Steve MacDonald, CEO/Founder - MacDonald Ventures Wayne Miller, Executive Director - The Venture Center- Little Rock Shai Perez, Operating Council - DTCC Chris Raper, Chief Operating Officer - Smiley Technologies, Inc. Allan Rayson, Chief Innovation Officer - Encore Bank Thomas Rizzo, Exec Director Global Cash & Liquidity - JPMorgan Chase Tom Shen, Executive Chair - Sensibill John... Tampa Bay Wave and the University of South Florida Muma College of Business, have partnered on a FinTech|X Accelerator to showcase USF’s strategic entry into fintech and further promote St. Petersburg as a major hub for fintech talent and innovation. TAMPA, FL (April 12, 2022) - Tampa Bay Wave and the University of South Florida Muma College of Business are proud to announce the FinTech|X 2022 Accelerator program cohort, consisting of 16 high-growth fintech startups from across the United States and abroad, including companies from Israel, England, Saudi Arabia, and Germany. Of the 16 startups, three are led by women entrepreneurs, and there is significant representation from military veterans, LBGTQ+ founders, and minority founders. The FinTech|X 2022 Accelerator program represents a multi-year partnership between Tampa Bay Wave and the University of South Florida Muma College of Business. It will showcase USF’s strategic entry into financial technology, which includes establishing a new FinTech Center and offering degree programs at the Kate Tiedemann School of Business and Finance on the St. Petersburg campus. Ultimately, the Accelerator seeks to advance the reputation of St. Petersburg and the Tampa Bay region as an innovative FinTech hub, thanks to a strategic community partnership with the St. Petersburg Area Economic Development Corporation. Supporting this three-year partnership is Encore Bank, with its processing partner Smiley Technologies, Inc. Additional support comes from local serial investor, disruptor, and myMatrixx founders Steve and Lindsay MacDonald, through their firm MacDonald Ventures. Other key funding partners include Kyle Taylor, founder of The... CyberTech|X Startup Accelerator The 2022 CyberTech|X Accelerator cohort kicked off this week, welcoming 15 of the best and brightest cybersecurity startups from across the US and beyond to Tampa Bay - including startups from Canada, France, Germany, Israel, and India. This cohort also includes four (4) women-led cybersecurity startups! This cohort includes many serial entrepreneurs, some with prior exits, as well as many cybersecurity professionals and former executives from top tech firms such as Symantec, IBM, McAfee, LifeLock, Google, and Microsoft. Several of the company founders are also US Navy and Air Force veterans, including a lifetime of leadership positions. In its second year, the CyberTech|X Accelerator is a 3-month tech business accelerator program exclusively for cybersecurity startups with the vision to further Tampa Bay’s (and Florida's) reputation as a nationally-recognized hub for cybersecurity talent and innovation. The program provides these startups with access to key resources, such as a dedicated Cohort Director, mentoring with notable tech founders and cybersecurity industry giants, sales training, pitch coaching and investor introductions in an environment designed to support high-scale growth. The inaugural 2021 program was deemed incredibly successful, despite being a first-year program, with roughly 50% of the cohort companies closing their funding rounds within six months of Demo Day plus two companies who were acquired within four months of Demo Day. One company, Refactr, was acquired by SOPHOS for an undisclosed amount. The former CEO and founder of Refactr, Mike Fraser, now works for SOPHOS as Vice President of DevSecOps and will... Cybersecurity leader, SOPHOS, acquired Refactr just months after graduating from Tampa Bay Wave's inaugural CyberTech|X Accelerator in 2021. Air Force veteran Founder and CEO Mike Fraser established Refactr alongside his fellow founders, Korrine Fraser, and Anthony Rowlands. The company built the Refactr Platform, a DevSecOps Automation Platform, to help bridge the gap between DevOps and cybersecurity. Post-acquisition, Mike continues to drive the vision and innovation of the Refactr Platform, now Sophos Factory, as the VP of DevSecOps at Sophos. Mike and Korrine also give back to the veteran and startup community as advisors and investors. To continue cultivating innovation in the tech industry, they have donated to Tampa Bay Wave to support other cybersecurity, tech, veteran, and women-led startups. Mike will also share his expertise as a member of Tampa Bay Wave's 2022 CyberTech|X Advisory Council alongside national leaders in cybersecurity from some of the nation's largest companies.   Congrats to Refactr, Mike, and Korrine on their achievements and continued impact on the tech and startup community! Refactr's inspiring success story exemplifies Tampa Bay Wave's mission to transform innovative ideas into real-world solutions and scalable businesses, driving positive social and economic change. We are grateful for their generosity and commitment to empowering future entrepreneurs. FinTech|X Startup Accelerator University of South Florida's Muma College of Business and Tampa Bay Wave have announced a new partnership that will highlight the region's prominent financial industry presence, by launching a new FinTech|X Accelerator program! Coming in 2022, the groundbreaking program will recruit fintech startups from across the U. S. to the region. This initiative will enrich and diversify the tech ecosystem; establishing the Tampa Bay area’s reputation as a nationally-recognized hub for fintech talent and innovation. The FinTech|X Accelerator is a highly specialized 90-day accelerator program exclusively for innovative and disruptive technology startups focused on fintech. Participating startups will gain access to key resources to support high-scale growth, including one-on-one mentoring with notable fintech industry leaders, sales training, pitch coaching, and strategic investor introductions. The program will conclude with a private Demo Day event, where participating companies will pitch their businesses to an audience of accredited investors, venture capitalists and other financial industry leaders. Events for this program will be hosted at USF’s St. Petersburg campus, the Kate Tiedemann School of Business and Finance, among other venues. Due to the inclusive nature, the demand for financial technology is rapidly increasing. The rise in popularity has made fintech instrumental in stimulating economic growth. This program will promote greater startup density in Tampa Bay and high-wage job creation, while also addressing the region’s below average wages and early stage capital gaps. Other critical funding was providing by other key sponsors including: Encore Bank/STi, MacDonald Ventures, City of St. Petersburg, St.... 2021 Bank of America Neighborhood Builders® Award Once upon a time, Tampa Bay was not revered as a hockey town, so it’s no secret that Champa Bay has come a long way. Tampa Bay wasn’t always recognized as a tech innovation hub either. But just this year, Forbes declared Tampa as the #1 emerging tech city in the US! For more than a decade, Wave has been on the forefront in driving the growth of Tampa Bay's tech ecosystem, while proudly leading the effort to support a more diverse and inclusive economic ecosystem that creates equitable pathways to entrepreneurship for all. Tampa Bay Wave and the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Suncoast were the two nonprofits selected for the highly-competitive 2021 Bank of America Neighborhood Builders® award, granting each organization $200k over a two-year span. This funding will help Wave build out capacity within our organization with a special focus on bolstering our support of underrepresented entrepreneurs and the startups they are building within our CORE membership. In addition, a portion of the funds will be set aside to provide scholarships to our programs for those startups that meet certain LMI (Low-to-Moderate Income) or diversity criteria. Over the past few years, the local marketplace needs have exceeded our delivery model. Thus, expanding our capacity of our CORE Membership team will allow us to serve even more startups with our world-class programs and services, including our dedicated staff, 130+ volunteer mentor network, access to capital and other resources critical for... 2021 Women Led Tech Startup Accelerator Tampa Bay Wave (Wave) is proud to announce the 15 incredible women-led tech selected for the 2021 TechWomen Rising Accelerator, powered by JPMorgan Chase. The TechWomen Rising Accelerator is a 90-day business accelerator program exclusively for women-led startups in Florida, powered by JPMorgan Chase. “As this new cohort of women-led businesses shows, there is no shortage of female entrepreneurs in the Tampa Bay area with fantastic and viable business ideas. They just need the access to resources and capital to succeed” said Nikky Flores, Commercial Banking Market Director for West Florida at Chase. “JPMorgan Chase is thrilled to work with the Tampa Bay Wave and the Embarc Collective to help make that happen for these first 15 businesses and look forward to seeing them succeed and transform their industries. ” Companies in the TechWomen Rising accelerator program will receive a dedicated experienced mentor, one-on-one feedback with notable tech founders, pitch coaching, investment readiness programs and strategic introductions to investors and prospective customers. TechWomen Rising companies will also participate in Wave’s Pitch Night, a public event to be held at Embarc Collective, as well as an investor-focused Demo Day at the conclusion of the program. "Tampa Bay Wave’s strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, including gender diversity, is one of the cornerstones of our strategy for fostering a larger, stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in Tampa Bay and throughout Florida. " said Linda Olson, CEO, Tampa Bay Wave. "Thanks to the support from JPMorgan Chase and our... This week, Wave celebrated the first recipients of the Wave Hall of Fame Awards. Wave established these awards in 2021 in order to recognize the entrepreneurs who are helping to grow the Tampa Bay tech startup ecosystem by building high-growth tech businesses that are achieving success and making an impact on Tampa Bay. The award criteria includes companies who have achieved a major business milestone (such as a major investment round) and the founders must also be committed to helping "pay it forward" to the next generation of entrepreneurs and startups through mentoring, investing, and more. The six honorees recognized last night represent $200 Million worth of business value creation (and all of whom are headquartered Tampa Bay): 180ByTwo LilyPad Mize PeerFit PikMyKid Script Special thanks to City of Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and University of South Florida Muma College of Business Dean Moez Limayem who joined us to celebrate these incredible entrepreneurs! It’s been a busy few weeks since we kicked off the revitalized CORE program! In a short time, we’ve welcomed new companies, celebrated the success of Wave alums, hosted a variety of events, and have been hard at work planning out the rest of the year. Here are a few of the things that the CORE community has been doing in the last month: We kicked off the program with legacy members and welcomed new members to the fold. Among some of our new community members, we have founders in the education space, hospitality, social media, and health tech, to name a few. The team looks forward to formally introducing our newest founders to the community at large soon! Among our alumni CORE members, the good news just keeps rolling in. Many of our TechWomen Rising and TechDiversity founders recently joined us for a virtual reunion and gave exciting updates - Jaeson Bang of Oracle Health recently raised $1. 3M on crowdfunding platform, Republic, while Christopher Molaro and Neuroflow recently closed on a $20M series B round, aimed at scaling the venture. To read all of the recaps from those events, please visit https://www. tampabaywave. org/2021/06/techdiversity-techwomen-rising-reunion-recap/ Also celebrating significant recent wins are Peerfit, PikMyKid and Script - all Wave alum who have gone onto incredible achievements in their respective verticals. Our sincerest congratulations to the founders and their teams. Stay tuned for exciting news around these celebrations! In addition to our reunions, CORE has also hosted some impressive speakers for... Tampa Bay Wave (Wave) is proud to announce the 2021 TechDiversity Accelerator program cohort consisting of 15 incredible high-growth tech startups from across the United States and abroad. Funded by the Nielsen Foundation since 2018, the 90-day TechDiversity Accelerator program works to support and accelerate leadership diversity, equity and inclusion within high-growth, early-stage tech startups. Selected companies must be 51% owned, controlled and operated by black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) or other underrepresented entrepreneurs, minorities, women, veterans, LGBT, people with disabilities or combination thereof. “The Nielsen Foundation is excited to support the fourth year of the TechDiversity Accelerator to provide greater opportunity for diverse entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and influence in the tech sector,” said Andrea Bertels, President and Executive Director of Grantmaking at the Nielsen Foundation. “COVID-19 has shown the persistent inequalities across economies and the importance of inclusion in economic opportunities. We’re proud to be part of the solution by continuing to support the TechDiversity Accelerator. ” TechDiversity cohort participants were selected from several hundred applications from companies spanning 30 countries internationally, 28 states and 120 cities across the United States. Past TechDiversity participants have hailed nationally from locations including Philadelphia, Los Angeles, New York City, Austin, Dallas, Boise, and Washington DC; and internationally, from Santiago, Chile, São Paulo, Brazil, Lima, Peru, and more. Through accelerator programming, cohort companies will receive executive coaching, comprehensive mentoring from industry experts, strategic introductions, and preparation for investor meetings — all culminating in Demo Day, which is a unique... Meet our newest team member, David Wedderburn! David is interning with Tampa Bay Wave this summer, thanks to a very special program, called the Tech Fellows Program, run by FSU’s Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (C. A. R. E. ) and Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement (C. R. E. ). This unique program exposes first-generation students to the daily task of product development, entrepreneurship, and ecosystem building. David is a proud member of the 2021 Tech Fellows cohort. He attends Florida State University and plans to graduate in May of 2023 with a degree in marketing. During his internship, he will also be collecting information for his qualitative research project. His objective is to determine the factors preventing African-American-owned startups from gaining investment capital which can impact their business' ability to scale. Several studies show that the number of African-American startups are at a severe disadvantage when it comes to raising early stage investment capital. By interviewing various venture capitalists (VCs), he’ll gain insight from an investor’s perspective with the goal to identify any underlying factors that may prevent them from investing in an African-American owned business. Factors that might contribute to VCs deciding not to invest in a startup include the company’s management team, business plan, or even their pitch. Through Tampa Bay Wave, he is presented with invaluable opportunities to learn what VCs and angel investors look for in a startup, giving him the opportunity to capitalize on that knowledge and apply what he learns... Funded by JPMorgan Chase, Wave’s TechWomen Rising Accelerator Program empowers female-led tech startups to scale early-stage startups while working to close chronic funding deficits for women throughout the U. S. Tampa Bay Wave, Inc. is proud to announce that we are now accepting applications for its 2021 TechWomen Rising Accelerator program. TechWomen Rising Accelerator 2021 Now in its second year, the 90-day TechWomen Rising Accelerator program is offered exclusively to women-led technology companies and is intended to help female entrepreneurs build high-growth startups and promote venture capital investments in female founded companies. The program is funded by a $500,000 philanthropic commitment from JPMorgan Chase to Tampa Bay Wave and Embarc Collective as part of the firm’s global initiative to encourage small business development, generate jobs and nurture diverse communities. “The number of women-owned technology startups in the Tampa Bay area is growing at a record pace, and we want to make sure they have access to resources and capital to succeed” said Michele Grace, South Division Director for Chase Business Banking. “We are thrilled to see the first phase of this program launch and look forward to continuing to support this partnership. ” Companies in the accelerator program will receive a dedicated experienced mentor, one-on-one feedback with notable tech founders, pitch coaching, investment readiness programs and strategic introductions to investors and prospective customers. TechWomen Rising companies will also participate in Wave’s Demo Day at the conclusion of the program. "The TechWomen Rising Accelerator is designed to provide women-led companies the... Fueling startup success! . . for founders by founders As a founder of a high-growth technology startup, you wear a lot of hats and it’s not easy to excel at them all, while trying to build a business, acquire customers and raise capital. That’s where Wave comes in. Tampa Bay Wave is excited to announce its newly enhanced CORE Membership – a unique program designed to deliver ongoing support for high-growth technology startups who are looking to scale faster and change the world through their products and services. After connecting with numerous founders, mentors and partners, and digging deep into the unique needs and challenges of high growth member companies, Wave is proud to introduce a revitalized CORE membership program. This program is designed to help you: Efficiently connect with other founders Expedite exposure and access to capital Access tools and resources to grow your startup What's New: Wave is launching a digital platform and online community that will help you easily find and connect with your peers, other tech startup founders (via Wave's ~100 portfolio companies), as well as our extensive 130+ member network of experienced mentors. A growing, searchable knowledge library makes it easy to access tools and resources, and strategic introductions to investors, customers and ecosystem leaders will help facilitate growth. Best of all, the CORE membership program really is just that – a program, led by a seasoned program director and fellow founder dedicated to helping CORE companies succeed. Membership also includes: In addition to the... Tampa Bay Wave is dedicated to empowering diversity in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and supporting entrepreneurs who are riding the wave of innovation. As Tampa steps into the role as the next hub of innovation, it’s only right that our CORE program is fully revitalized and modernized to fit the needs of founders across the Tampa Bay region and beyond. CORE is a program designed for startups who are dedicated to scaling and achieving high growth; through a community of peer entrepreneurs and year-round access to mentorship, networking, curated perks and much more. We are proud to present the revamped CORE program; kicking off on May 10th, with the support of Ramit Singh, the Director of Startup & Entrepreneurship Programs. Richard Munassi, Accelerator Managing Director at the Wave, had the opportunity to interview Ramit; pick his brain about the CORE program, and learn more about Ramit’s fascinating professional background. Richard: "Ramit, good to see you this morning. So glad we're having a chance to catch up and dive into this. Let’s jump right in and talk about your background with regards to your career; your background is quite interesting, as a JD who is all in on the tech sector. Can you tell us a bit about your journey from law school into tech? " Ramit: "Sure. I graduated law school in 2008, in the last great recession. I have a knack for major life changes while the world is going nuts, as you know, given 2020. I came out of... Finding the right capital to fund your startup can be a challenge, and non-dilutive funding can be very attractive to founders. While there are a variety sources of non-dilutive funding sources available, both federal and private, the most common federal sources are Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) grants and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants. Sometimes referred to as America's Seed Fund, these non-dilutive grants like SBIR and STTR will not eliminate the need for dilutive funding, but they can certainly reduce or delay the need for it and thus allow a company to receive a much more favorable valuation, since investors will be funding a prototype or product with a company that has a facility and employees instead of an idea. Several tech companies within the Tampa Bay Wave's membership have taken advantage of these SBIR & STTR grants. In March of 2021, Refactr received an US Air Force AFWERX SBIR 20. 1 Phase II contract for $750K with Platform One, the Air Force’s DevSecOps initiative. “This is a major achievement for Refactr and allows us to adapt our DevSecOps Solution Delivery Automation Platform to the Air Force needs that provide dual use capabilities for both government and commercial customers. It is an amazing achievement to land the Air Force as a customer, as an Air Force veteran, with innovation that is vital to our national security”, Michael Fraser, Co-Founder and CEO at Refactr. Additionally, NeuroFlow was awarded $2. 6M in SBIR awards since 2018; allowing the company... Powered by The Nielsen Foundation, Tampa Bay Wave’s TechDiversity Accelerator Program helps BIPOC and other underrepresented founder-led companies get the jumpstart they need to grow and scale high-growth, early-stage startups. Tampa Bay Wave, Inc. (Wave), a nonprofit technology startup accelerator dedicated to driving opportunity and prosperity in Tampa Bay, is now accepting applications for its 2021 TechDiversity Accelerator program for companies located in the U. S. and abroad. Funded by The Nielsen Foundation, the 90-day TechDiversity Accelerator Program is offered to early-stage companies that are at least 51% owned, controlled and operated by black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) or other underrepresented Entrepreneurs, minorities, women, veterans, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities or combination thereof. Now in its fourth year, the program was created with the vision of supporting and accelerating leadership diversity, equity and inclusion within high-growth, early-stage tech startups. This year, the Nielsen Foundation increased its funding commitment to expand recruiting activities across the U. S. and Latin America and enhance support to TechDiversity alumni companies. In 2020, Tampa Bay Wave received over 700 applications for its accelerator programs from throughout the United States and abroad, with less than a 2. 5% acceptance rate. TechDiversity alumni have hailed nationally from locations including Philadelphia, Los Angeles, New York City, Austin, Dallas, Boise and Washington DC; and internationally, from Santiago, Chile, São Paulo, Brazil, Lima, Peru, and more. “Diverse-led startups need greater access to business and funding opportunities — not only to grow and advance talent in this space, but also... Charlotte-Baker-CEO-Digital Hands Tampa Bay Wave, Inc. (Wave), a nonprofit technology startup accelerator dedicated to driving opportunity and prosperity in Tampa Bay, appoints seasoned cybersecurity founder, community leader and business woman, Charlotte Baker, as its new Board Chair. Baker is the CEO and co-founder of Tampa-based cybersecurity firm, Digital Hands, and steps into this leadership role as a 20-year cybersecurity industry veteran, entrepreneur and recipient of numerous personal accolades, including CEO Magazine’s “CEO of the Year. ” Other honors include "Lifetime Achievement Award" from eWomenNetwork, Tampa Bay Business Journal's "Business Woman of the Year in Technology,” “Innovator of the Year” from Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) and one of “Florida’s Most Influential Business Leaders,” the past three years running by Florida Trends. As a serial entrepreneur, Baker is no stranger to building innovative tech companies. Under her leadership, Digital Hands gained national recognition as a five time TSIA Star Award Winner with the Technology Services Industry Association for its commitment to innovative excellence, as well as the TSIA Star Award Hall of Fame for “Lifetime Achievement for Outstanding Service. ” Baker currently serves on the advisory board for TSIA's Managed Services discipline and is also a member of the Society of International Business Fellows (SIBF. org). She previously held board and officer positions for WIPP (Women Impacting Public Policy), where she advocated for small businesses before Congress and equipped business owners with resources and information to grow and scale. Locally, Baker is deeply committed to the Tampa Bay community, currently serving... Hot off the heels of the (mega) sale of Peerfit’s intellectual property to a publicly traded, global company, Jamie Sewell sat down with Peerfit founder and CEO, Ed Buckley and Peerfit Investor and Arc Applications Managing Partner, Dan Greco, to get the scoop. Our conversation didn’t stop there – we talked about Peerfit’s early days, how Ed and Dan’s business relationship was love at first sight, advice for early-stage startups, the importance of an advisory board, and why Ed and Dan are so committed to giving back to others. Check out the highlights below (edited for clarity & length) or catch the full conversation in the video here: On how Peerfit came to be: Ed (Peerfit) – Thinking back to that time and looking where we are now is always a fun exercise – it's like a caterpillar turning into a butterfly. There are stages that you go through to get to where you are. And regardless of whether those stages to take two years or four years or however long, everyone goes through them at some point. In the beginning, the idea around Peerfit was a pretty simple one: We knew group fitness was the stickiest component of physical activity. If I can get someone into a group fitness setting, they're far more likely to stay active. We knew that (exercise) was a great thing for individuals, and frankly, for our society. And we knew that there are a lot of stakeholders: You've got the gyms and the instructors;... By Linda Olson, CEO, Tampa Bay Wave If you are like me, you are both glad that 2020 is over but also still reflecting on what has to be one of the most unusual years... dare I say “unprecedented. ” While it was truly exhausting, I am not only very proud of the work that Tampa Bay Wave has done this year, but I am also even more inspired for the future! If 2020 taught us anything, it is that the world can change in an instant, and that innovation is needed now more than ever. We all saw just how fast this pandemic can spread around the world, highlighting just how globally integrated we really are. Thus, many of our biggest problems facing society today are most often global problems now. And this realization should be a wake-up call for all of us, including the innovation community in Tampa Bay. The startups we support are not just creating local jobs and making a significant financial impact here in Tampa Bay. Many of these startups are solving really big, important problems - and in many cases, global problems - in areas such as healthcare, mental health, education, cybersecurity, and tools for remote workforces. Some of these startups help other small businesses survive; some of these startups even save lives. With Wave’s vision for Tampa Bay to become a nationally recognized hub for technology talent and startups, this new world order means this vision is even more within our reach. There... Things are at full sprint in the Tampa Bay Wave startup scene as 2020 winds down. Multiple Wave companies have either closed rounds or are in the process of closing rounds before the end of the year. A few highlights are below, including a pair of liquidity events. Please reach out to Wave Cohort Director Dr. Richard Munassi for any introductions to these great companies or to learn more about companies who are actively raising at the moment. Early-Stage Companies Watch List Medzoomer Medzoomer was in the Wave cohort focused on local startups that concluded in February. The healthtech startup launched in multiple states in November, delivering medications to patients in Florida and Arizona, with the company rolling out to North Carolina and Ohio and several other states through early Q1 2021. Medzoomer went from idea phase to inking strategic partnerships with enterprise clients and generating revenue in under 11 months, making them one of the fastest moving Wave companies to date. Home Lending Pal Home Lending Pal, led by serial entrepreneur Bryan Young, recently secured a lead investor for their Seed round, and is currently oversubscribed. The TechDiversity 2020 cohort member, which is focused on the mortgage lending space, has landed multiple partnerships with large banks and other financial institutions, as well as IBM. Solo Funds Solo Funds was also part of the TechDiversity 2020 cohort and recently won the 2020 Startup of the Year Competition by Established. They have hit astonishing growth metrics and are primed for a... Check out Wave's 2020 Wish List to see how you can help support the Tampa Bay Innovation ecosystem with your talents, electronics, sponsorships, and donations! Questions? Contact Dee Garcia! When the COVID-19 economic crisis first hit, Tampa Bay Wave witnessed first-hand the devastating impact that the shutdowns were having on tech startups who were often ineligible for federal and state funding programs. Wave immediately established the Rising Tide Relief Fund to offer microloans to its startup members who were working to pivot and survive. These efforts were recently recognized by Tampa Bay Wave “Pillar of Innovation” community partner, Valley Bank. Valley Bank has been a valued Wave community partner since 2018 and responded to the microloan need with a $25,000 donation as part of its COVID-19 relief commitment. This donation will allow more members to receive microloan support. When repayments to the fund are made, the donation will live on, available to support startups in the event of future emergencies. Since 2013, Tampa Bay Wave has supported 320 companies, who raised over $300 million in capital and created 2,400 jobs. “The Rising Tide Relief Emergency Relief fund is the lifeline small businesses need right now,” says Joe Chillura, Valley’s Chief Retail and Business Banking Officer. “The Tampa Bay Wave’s commitment to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs aligns with Valley’s and we’re proud to partner with them in supporting this fund. ” Helping companies stay in business protects area jobs, lessens the burden on health and human services providers and positions Tampa Bay’s national reputation as a supportive innovation hub. Tampa Bay Wave is incredibly grateful for Valley Bank’s generosity and community commitment, thanks to the vision and community involvement... The 9th Annual Startup of the Year Summit is taking place in Tampa Bay, January 25th-27th; so far, 10 out of the 100 finalists selected for the competition are Wave portfolio companies. Powered by Established, this prestigious program helps diverse, emerging startups, founder teams, and entrepreneurs push their company to the next level through competition, community, and resources. The competition draws applicants from all over the United States and internationally, making it a must-see event within the innovation community. Our startups have historically held a strong presence at the Startup of the Year (SOTY) competition. In 2020, TechDiversity Accelerator Alum, Solo Funds claimed the championship title. Let's dive into Wave’s SOTY history! 2022 Wave finalists: BarnWiz Home Lending Pal MARVL Otter Waiver Shamrck Shufflrr Spontivly TaxTaker Vacayou Wedzee 2020 Wave finalists: Cuemby Hoy Health Just Protect Nickelytics RxLive Solo Funds (1st place) UBQFit 2019 Wave finalists: 180byTwo Wherewithal (top 5) GuestBox Hoy Health Immertec (2nd place) InEvent NeuroFlow (top 15) SafetyPIN Verapy Exiom Fetefully* Previous Wave participants include: Knack PikMyKid OpticSurg *Fetefully is a current Wave company but was not a Wave company in 2019. Congratulations to five Wave companies to present at Florida Venture Forum's 2020 Early Stage Venture Forum Conference. EXIOM, INC. , Monticello (www. exiom. com), the company enables Orthopedic Professionals to rapidly scan and measure an injured limb, build a patient-specific splint, and 3D print the brace on-site while the patient waits. The total print time averages only 30 minutes and has the potential to increase patient throughput and provide an ancillary revenue stream for the practice. MetaQub Interactive (i. e ProjectMQ), Parrish (www. projectmq. com/), provides esports consulting/resources that help colleges & other brands more effectively engage younger audiences. The company's 1st platform in an online intramural esport tournament app, featuring a rotating catalog of family-friendly games that they curate from amazing indie developers around the world. Their 2nd platform gamifies attendance & rewards engagement at live events, like a "Disney Fast Pass" experience, featuring a virtual safari for digital scavenger hunts similar to "PokemonGo". TSOLife Inc, Tampa (www. tsolife. com), the company's solution solves the operational challenges communities face in collecting and leveraging data by capturing data via recorded interviews in the TSOLife mobile app and leveraging AI-powered smart forms to automate data entry. The company's data collection technology fuels TSOLife's BI platform and automated insights. Wedzee, Tampa (www. wedzee. com), is a C2C/B2C marketplace launched in late August of 2019 that is designed to connect former and future brides, wedding planners, and small business owners while providing them a safer and more secure way to buy and sell... As we enter into Q4 2020, Wave companies continue to find success fundraising even during these odd times of COVID. Here are a few of the companies that have successfully either raised capital, or are deep in the process of raising capital: Fetefully, who recently completed the 2020 TechDiversity Accelerator cohort, has landed a lead investor out of Florida for their current seed round. This Dallas, Texas, based company is led by GiGi McDowell and is focused on the wedding and event space. Though this vertical has been hit hard from COVID, Fetefully has bucked the trend, with significant growth in 2020 following a strong launch in 2019. Multiple Wave TechDiversity Accelerator 2020 cohort members also closed rounds during the cohort, including Solo Funds, Vincere Health, TaxTaker, and more. Vacayou, a member of the 2020 TechWomen Rising Accelerator cohort that is currently in session, has landed a significant lead investor from Tampa for their current round. The company, led by industry veteran Muirgheal Montecalvo, is an online travel company specializing in wellness retreats, spa getaways, active and fitness vacation experiences. Script, a Wave EdTech company led by founders Aaron White and Pat Cahill, is finalizing a current round with a local Tampa investment group. Growth by Script has been significant over the past 18 months, with the company having turned over 400 schools (and growing) across the country paperless. RxLive, led by CEO and Harvard Business School alumnus Mark Engelen, completed a round of funding led by Seedfunders (who has... Wave company We Craft Box has been rapidly growing over the past few years with the vision of helping parents and children connect more creatively through a monthly craft box subscription delivered straight to your door. The company was voted #5 in USA Today's top 20 subscription boxes of 2020 and has won awards from Today. com, Real Simple, Huffington Post, Buzzfeed, and more. In 2019, they also won Best Artisan/Craft Box by Subscription Box Trade Association. When they are not busy raking in awards, they are growing! The company has experienced over 2. 5x growth YoY from 2018 to 2019 and are on track to grow by that rate again in 2020. COVID-19 Effect on the Business The craft industry in general experienced a surge due to COVID. This was no exception for We Craft Box, helping them grow at a much quicker rate than expected this year. Counteracting the demand was shortages, warehouse and stocking slowdowns and supply chain disruption, which required the team to think on their feet and made things work. Where We Craft Box is shipping: All states in the US and Canada We Craft Box Information: Price – $29. 99 a month For kids ages 3-9 Unique themed story 4 or more coordinating crafts with easy-to-follow photo directions All materials included (with the exception of scissors) One box can be shared between 2 crafters Shipping FREE in the US, shipping fees apply for Canada Learn more at: https://www. wecraftbox. com A whopping eight Wave portfolio companies have recently kicked off engagements with top tier startup programs throughout the United States, underscoring the quality of innovative companies within the Wave community. From Miami to Texas to Silicon Valley and more, Wave startups continue to drive forward and grow. Here are just some of the highlights from Wave CORE members: RxLive (Saint Petersburg, FL), a concierge telehealth service that connects patients and expert clinical pharmacists in a secure, private and personal way, recently began the Plug and Play Accelerator program in Silicon Valley. Fellow Wave member SoleVenture has also been part of Plug and Play, as well as Wave mentor, Doug Garis. Lazarillo (Santiago, Chile), a Chilean startup increasing autonomy for people with poor vision, is in full swing with the 500 Startups program out of Miami. Lazarillo first joined Wave as a member of the 2019 TechDiversity Accelerator cohort. Oracle Health (Tampa, FL), a digital health cardiac monitoring system, and Vincere Health, a company using real-time rewards and behavioral nudges to motivate users to smoke less and live healthier lives (Boston, MA), have started at TMCx (Houston, FL) and Techstars United Healthcare(Minneapolis, MN). Both companies are recent members of the 2020 TechDiversity cohort. Miami's Venture City program has chosen three Wave portfolio companies for their program: 2020 TechDiversity cohort company, Eskaud (Concepcion, Chile) enables seamless employee productivity and data collection for companies working in remote, field locations. UBQFit (Boca Raton, FL) provides live 1 on 1 workouts with real trainers on... Tampa Bay Wave announces new cybersecurity accelerator to grow Tampa Bay reputation for cybersecurity and generate new jobs A $100,000 gift from Bellini Better World, with additional support from A-LIGN, KnowBe4, EY and others, will help Tampa Bay Wave expand tech accelerator programming for cybersecurity startups and promote the region for cybersecurity talent and innovation. Tampa, Fla. (September 23, 2020) – Tampa Bay Wave, Inc. , a nonprofit dedicated to driving opportunity and prosperity in Tampa Bay through the growth of high-scale technology companies, has announced its newest accelerator program, CyberTech|X Accelerator, with the vision of growing Tampa Bay into a nationally-recognized hub for cybersecurity talent and innovation. This new program was formed with help from a $100,000 gift from local entrepreneur and ConnectWise founder, Arnie Bellini and his wife, Lauren Bellini, through their foundation, Bellini Better World. Other key funding partners include A-LIGN, KnowBe4 and EY; plus strategic partners: Cyber Florida, SYKES, Jabil, Aditum, and USF Muma College of Business. “The new CyberTech|X Accelerator is yet more evidence of Tampa Bay’s potential as a significant hub for technology startups and is another game-changer for the Tampa Bay tech community,” said Tampa Bay Wave CEO Linda Olson. “By coalescing around the cybersecurity industry sector at a time when Tampa Bay’s cyber giants are experiencing exponential growth and demand for cybersecurity talent is growing at record pace, the region can better attract new talent and capital, ultimately creating many new high-wage jobs in the area. ” The CyberTech|X Accelerator will promote... Over 130 devices & $5,000 cash donated over 3 days to benefit local kids! Thanks to the generosity of many throughout the Tampa Bay community, more than 120 laptops and tablets were donated for the benefit of middle and high school members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay. The drive, which ran September 1-3, was supported by local tech organizations Think Big for Kids, eSmart Recycling, Tampa Bay Tech (TBT), and Tampa Bay Wave (Wave). Donation quick facts: Total of 131 devices donated, weighing 881 pounds. Since not all donated devices were refurbish able, ultimately the drive yielded at least 25 fully refurbish able devices. These refurbished devices are all 5th generation machines, all standardized with 4GB of RAM and 500GB HDD + Docking Stations. (the market value of these units is $250-300 each) They will come with Original Windows 10 Pro License and full Windows Office Suite. An additional $5,000 cash donation was also collected to be put towards the purchase of new laptops for the local Boys & Girls Clubs. Thank you, JPMorgan Chase! ! Thanks to Florida Blue and others for donating some awesome swag for the Thank You gift bags handed out to donors. With so many school-aged children being forced into e-learning for the 2020-2021 school year, there is growing concern about whether low-to-moderate income households have a sufficient number of laptops or other devices so that all children have the proper tools they need. Thus, local organizations came together with a... Funded by JPMorgan Chase, Wave’s new TechWomen Rising Accelerator fosters growth and development for women-led technology startups while striving to close chronic funding gaps for women throughout the U. S. Tampa Bay Wave is proud to announce our inaugural cohort for the 2020 TechWomen Rising Accelerator, made up of thirteen promising female-led technology companies from around the state of Florida. Funded by JPMorgan Chase, the TechWomen Rising Accelerator was created with the vision of empowering female-led technology startups in the region, expanding the impact of entrepreneurship through inclusion and promoting venture capital investments in female-founded companies. The 90-day TechWomen Rising Accelerator offers companies access to invaluable resources such as a dedicated Cohort Director, one-on-one mentoring with notable tech founders, sales training, pitch coaching and investor introductions in an environment designed to support high-scale growth. TechWomen Rising Accelerator companies will also participate in Wave’s Demo Day at the conclusion of the program in November to pitch their companies to a group of hand-selected investors and business leaders. “While women are increasingly at the forefront of innovation in tech, they still struggle to receive ample funding and support for their companies,” said Michele Grace, South division director for Chase Business Banking. “The TechWomen Rising Accelerator program helps women entrepreneurs in Florida overcome these challenges and provides the boost, encouragement, and confidence women need to help bridge the gap between men and women in the startup ecosystem. ” The new accelerator program is supported by a two-year $500,000 philanthropic commitment by JPMorgan Chase... Local tech organizations are partnering to get laptops into the hands of underprivileged kids! With so many school-aged children being forced into e-learning for the 2020-2021 school year, there is growing concern about whether low-to-moderate income households have a sufficient number of laptops or other devices so that all children have the proper tools they need. Thus, local organizations came together with a goal to ensure no child left behind! And the laptop donation drive was born. Think Big for Kids, Tampa Bay Wave (Wave), eSmart Recycling and Tampa Bay Tech (TBT) are joining forces to help local underprivileged teens gain access to devices to support their virtual learning needs through a three-day laptop and tablet drive, Sept. 1-3. Collected devices will be distributed to middle and high school members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay. Donated laptops and tablets can be new or used, working or not. Individuals and companies can drop off their devices at the Tampa Bay Wave office, located at 500 E. Kennedy Blvd, Suite 300, Tampa, 33602. Drop off times will run Sept. 1-3, from 12-7 p. m. eSmart Recycling will scrub, refurbish and reload laptops and tablets with Microsoft licenses and other educational applications. Donation questions can be directed to info@esmartrecylcing. com. "We believe local youth are the future of Tampa Bay, so it's imperative that the community pulls together to help all kids forced to deal with the current e-learning challenges, especially for struggling families who cannot provide devices for... Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, many startups are still finding early stage capital - including those with diverse founders. Tampa Bay Wave's client companies are certainly challenging the assumption that COVID-19 is making it difficult for startups to raise capital these days. Just since the pandemic hit, our client companies have collectively raised nearly $10 million! ! Check out the recent list of Tampa Bay Wave client companies who have raised money this summer. Immertec Closes $6M Series A Extension VR Healthtech company Immertec closed $6M of investment to maximize growth opportunities, raising from a blend of current and new investors. The round was oversubscribed from an additional target of $3M. Founded in 2017 and based in Tampa, Florida, Immertec is an award-winning technology startup that’s pushing the limits of what is possible in virtual health. The company’s real-time VR platform allows surgeons to instantly train on new medical devices, learn modern surgical procedures and collaborate on surgical cases from anywhere. Immertec is a Wave portfolio member and accelerator cohort alumni. TaxTaker Closes Seed Round TaxTaker recently closed out their seed round (undisclosed amount), led by Golden Section Technology Venture Capital (GSTVC) out of Austin, Texas, with GSTVC Director Adam Day joining the Board of Directors. TaxTaker is a members of Wave's 2020 TechDiversity Accelerator Cohort and helps companies claim R&D tax credits through their proprietary technology platform. Their average Startup client receives over $41,000 in tax credits/savings in their first year alone. Allotrope Medical and Vincere Health Win Competitions Allotrope... Excerpt from article originally published on Grit Daily (August 10, 2020) Author: Sarah Marshall is a Columnist at Grit Daily. Based in Florida, she covers events related to regional economic growth, politics, and the environment. Sarah writes an environmental column for The Muslim News, and curates a blog that showcases her travels through Asia. EXCERPT: Despite there being a pandemic that has all but decimated the national and global economies, there is cause for hope – especially for some early-stage tech startups. Over the past few months, several Florida investors have risen to the occasion and invested in Tampa Bay Wave companies. Some of the groundwork for the recent investments started back in 2018, when Tampa Bay Wave, along with StarterStudio out of Orlando, secured a $300,000 grant from the U. S. Economic Development Association for the purpose of bolstering the startup energy in central Florida and connecting with investors from the Space Coast to the Gulf Coast to address early-stage capital funding gaps. The grant, branded as UpSurge Florida, was to be matched with $375,000 of investment, and funded investor roadshows where the heads of the accelerator programs were able to connect with high net worth investors. The roadshows began in 2019 and the most recent one was in January of this year. The subsequent roadshow events had to be cancelled because of COVID-19, but the connections that were made proved invaluable nonetheless Tampa Bay Wave has dozens of graduate companies from its various accelerator programs, and as fairly... Seeds sown by Tampa Bay Wave and Upsurge Florida lead to investment in Wave member technology company, JustProtect. Seeds planted by a federal grant from the U. S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to promote investor awareness and seed funding activity in Florida have recently blossomed into a significant investment in the Tampa-based technology company, JustProtect. The recent, undisclosed six-figure investment was made by newly-formed Lakeland-based Lakeland Venture Investments (LVI) and establishes new community ties between the emerging tech ecosystem in Lakeland and Tampa Bay. Notably, LVI’s investment is the first significant Tampa Bay area investment to be born out of the EDA grant made to technology accelerator Tampa Bay Wave. But first, a little background... . In early 2019, the US EDA's Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship awarded a 3-year grant to a new partnership between Tampa Bay Wave and Orlando’s StarterStudio to increase access to capital "from the Space Coast to the Gulf Coast" where risk capital is generally in short supply. This effort, now renamed Upsurge Florida, has led to the formation of at least one seed fund, the Central Florida Tech Fund, and uncovered hundreds of previously untapped prospective investors eager to help Florida's burgeoning tech startup ecosystem with new sources of capital. With additional financial and other support from the Vinik Family Foundation, Tampa Electric, University of Central Florida and Kirenaga Partners, Upsurge Florida held a series of in-person accredited investor roadshow presentations in 2019 and early 2020, forming hundreds of new accredited investor connections. At... Entrepreneurial diversity is not only the right thing to do. It’s an economic imperative, according to a leadership panel at the launch of Tampa Bay Wave’s TechDiversity Accelerator. The panel was the centerpiece of an hour long virtual kickoff for the accelerator program. Fifteen tech companies from around the United States and Latin America, including two from the Tampa-St. Petersburg area, will take part in the 2020 TechDiversity Accelerator cohort, sponsored by the Nielsen Foundation. Click on the image below to see a recording of the session. “I’m happy that Tampa can not only connect these companies with the resources they need to grow, but I’m also proud that our city can help shine a light on the incredible technologies they’ve developed,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor in welcoming the cohort. “Innovative companies like these are keeping our city on the cutting edge, driving us forward toward an even brighter future. ” To read the full article about our event from the St. Pete Catalyst, click here. UPDATED as of June 1, 2020 (Check back frequently for updates) As we continue to monitor the situation at hand, we have your health and safety top of mind. Since closing to the public in mid March, we have been steadily planning for the eventual reopening of our downtown Tampa location, including some changes you will definitely notice upon your next visit. We have enhanced many of our services, while also implementing some new surprises that we cannot wait to share with you. Of course, the official guidance continues to evolve, so we are constantly monitoring authoritative sources and exploring ways to make our venture center even more productive & safe. Throughout our venture center you will find: A quiet and healthy atmosphere to inspire your entrepreneurial goals and optimize productivity; Instructional signage promoting social distancing and proper sanitation procedures; Frequent professional cleaning and sanitation services; and Plenty of social distancing! Including private offices available for rent (for the day, the week, or even longer with month-to-month contracts). WAVE-branded face masks available for small donations of $10 each - proceeds will support Wave’s Rising Tide Relief Fund. Below are the current WAVE Venture Center policies in effect until further notice (as of June 1, 2020): WAVE Venture Center is currently closed to non-members. Members with key fobs can access the venture center 24/7 (if you need a key fob, please email venops@tampabaywave. org) Non-member Tours: All tours must be scheduled in advance and can be booked here. Elevator Access to... Tampa Bay Wave is proud to announce their 21st accelerator cohort for the 2020 TechDiversity Accelerator. Tampa Bay Wave has selected fifteen tech companies to join their cohort for the TechDiversity Accelerator, a program that has been supported by the Nielsen Foundation since 2018. This is an international program designed for early-stage tech companies that are 51% owned, controlled, and operated by a minority, woman, veteran, disabled or LGBTQ person or persons. Wave’s TechDiversity Accelerator is a 90-day program where chosen companies will work in a collaborative, non-competitive environment. Companies will have access to invaluable resources, such as a dedicated TechDiversity Cohort Director, one-on-one mentoring with notable tech founders, sales training, pitch coaching, and investor introductions. TechDiversity Accelerator companies will also participate in Wave’s Demo Day at the conclusion of the program. This is a unique opportunity for founders to pitch their companies to an audience of hand-selected investors and business leaders. “The Nielsen Foundation is excited to support the third year of the TechDiversity Accelerator,” said Andrea Bertels, Executive Director of Grantmaking of the Nielsen Foundation. “COVID-19 has shown the inequalities across our economy, and this program can really make a difference. We’re proud to be part of the solution -- providing greater opportunity for diverse entrepreneurs to build, grow, and expand their businesses and influence in the tech sector. ” The Nielsen Foundation is a private foundation funded by Nielsen, a global measurement and data analytics company. The foundation seeks to bridge divides and enhance the use of... In early April 2020, Tampa Bay Wave was so moved by the economic stress on our founders that we were among the first in the Tampa Bay community to establish an emergency loan fund, called the Rising Tide Relief Fund. We were moved to do so watching the stress our startup founders were experiencing. Like them, we pivoted our efforts to host a campaign surge and participated in the global #GivingTuesday campaign. Donors answered our call - contributions came from our Board, Wave staff, Friends, Community Leaders, and Individual Supporters who all wanted to help. We offered premiums to encourage larger donations and to show our appreciation. We tapped our social media channels and connected with various news outlets, featuring some of our Founders to personalize how much difference even a small amount of financial assistance can make. While small, the Wave was mighty and among the first in our community to ignite a support fund; we hope our efforts inspired others to initiate their own fundraising. The effort offered the Wave team the opportunity to learn and expand our own capabilities and we are committed to growing the emergency fund to be even more impactful in the future. We are happy to report that we just made our first two microloans to founders we know want more than anything to be able to repay the emergency fund when economics permit so that others can benefit if needed. We thank all those who contributed and are leaving the donation link... When Vikas Bhatia moved his cyber security firm from New York to Tampa earlier this year, he was at the top of his game. He relocated to take advantage of lower taxes that come with running a business in the Sunshine State. But like so many other companies, he was unable to avoid the financial setbacks caused by COVID-19. Tampa Bay Wave starts Rising Tide Relief Fund Fund helps startup businesses struggling from the pandemic More info on the nonprofit and the microloan fund “It kind of hit us quite hard because we just found our groove and we were just getting ready to expand,” said Bhatia, CEO of JustProtect. Co. “Essentially all of our plans that we had for 2020 were completely disrupted. ” Bhatia is one of many startups struggling to find funding during one of the worst economic downturns in recent memory. Tampa Bay Wave Director of Development Dee Garcia spoke to one entrepreneur who was at the end of his financial rope. To read the full article by Bay News 9, click here. To watch our CEO/Founder Linda Olson and Director of Development Dee Garcia on Impact Catalyst speaking about the program, click here. It took veteran entrepreneur Steve MacDonald about a half-hour to see the potential in Vizetto, a technology company with a video conferencing platform to enable remote teamwork. Steve MacDonald After that meeting in March 2019 in a conference room at Tampa Bay Wave, an enthusiastic MacDonald, executive entrepreneur-in-residence at Wave and a partner and member of Florida Funders, pitched Vizetto as an investment candidate at Florida Funders. A little over a year later, Florida Funders and Vizetto closed the deal, with Florida Funders co-leading a $3 million seed round for Vizetto, a Canadian company that’s planning to open its U. S. office in Florida. The backstory of how the investment evolved highlights the power of connections and persistence, as well as the role startup hubs like Wave can play in growing the technology ecosystem. “Wave is a standout place for aspiring entrepreneurs and aspiring companies. It’s a great resource that most early stage companies at least tap into when they are looking at Florida or looking at the marketplace around Tampa,” MacDonald said. Allen Clary, director of investor relations at Wave, met Av Utukuri, Vizetto CEO and founder, through a mutual friend. Clary was intrigued because Vizetto’s product was similar to technology at Jibidee, a company Clary co-founded 12 years ago. Allen Clary To read the full article by St. Pete Catalyst, click here. Over the past several weeks, we have seen how fast things change on both a global and individual human level. While the full impact of the COVID-19 crisis is still unknown, the stories of human resilience, love, and generosity continue to flood in.   On #GivingTuesdayNow, Tampa Bay Wave asks you to continue to keep good going and be part of the tide of hope as it raises money for the Rising Relief Fund, knowing that together, we are stronger.   As you may know, Wave launched the Rising Tide Relief Fund a few weeks ago when it saw a need in within its startup community to provide microloans to some of 60 startups within its accelerator, who collectively employ 1,000 people. Thanks to your generosity, Wave has raised $12,000 to date which it will use as a lifeline to startups who were on the path to success when this crisis hit. What we have learned since this campaign launched, is that startups are often not eligible for disaster relief programs, and many have been passed over by banks in favor of larger, more established businesses, making the Rising Tide Relief Fund even more important.   This fund is about more than just about startups – it is about their employees and their families, as well as the overall economic future for Tampa Bay.   Innovation does not stop when a crisis hits. In some cases, that crisis may accelerate solutions in the marketplace. In other cases, it may permanently... PikMyKid has proposed using the technology behind its school safety systems to make drive-thru testing for Covid-19 faster, safer and more efficient. Drive-thru testing (Credit: U. S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Amouris Coss) Testing is key to flattening the Covid-19 curve and stemming the spread of coronavirus, according to a project summary from PikMyKid. The company wants to develop a DriveThruTest application that builds on its core carline automation technology. The DriveThruTest app would allow patients to register online, answer questionnaires, choose test sites, plan arrival, expedite testing and receive results seamlessly. Read the full article by the St. Pete Catalyst, click here. Tampa Bay Wave, an “entrepreneurial hub” dedicated to helping tech startups become scalable businesses, is currently accepting applications for their TechDiversity Accelerator program. The program, funded by The Nielsen Foundation, focuses on accelerating startups that are at least 51% owned by women, minorities, veterans, LGBTQ+, or persons with disabilities. The 90-day program began accepting applications in March, and will do so until April 12, extended from March 31st due to the coronavirus outbreak. The program expects to accept between 8-10 companies for their 2020 cohort. Each year since its inception in 2018, interest in the program has grown, increasing the numbers of applicants. America thrives on diversity, and the conversation about representation has gotten loud enough recent years that it is spilling over into the business world. Companies understand that they cannot succeed with mass appeal unless they are inclusive of all races and gender identities, and generally supportive of the underrepresented. Some companies go so far as to invest specifically in programs that support such underrepresented groups to do their part in balancing the playing field. To read the full article by Grit Daily, click here. Truly, the impact that the coronavirus pandemic is making on the lives of families around the world, not to mention here at home, is unprecedented. Beyond the fact that people around the globe are ill or dying, we are all dealing with some kind of “new normal”, for at least the foreseeable future, thanks to school closings, overloaded healthcare systems, rising unemployment, financial markets collapsing, threats of bankruptcy, and more. Added to all this, current measures for dealing with COVID-19 can promote social isolation which can lead to loneliness, anxiety, mental instability for many. However, as with all large-scale crises, even ones like COVID19, there are not only threats, but also opportunities that often lead to innovations that we could not have even been dreamed of before. Many companies across the US are rising to the challenge, including several companies that Tampa Bay Wave has the great pleasure of supporting. Below is a list of companies who are already delivering much-needed solutions, as well as some who are further innovating to address the growing needs. These companies cover a wide-variety of industries from health & medical tech, to education & remote learning solutions, to local business solutions, even remote workforce / telecom solutions. Health & Medical Tech HoyHealth provides accessible and affordable primary healthcare to everyone, everywhere, including access to healthcare professionals, affordable medications and chronic condition management. During the Covid19 emergency, Hoy Health has activated its bilingual telemedicine platform HoyDOC to reach as many underserved medical communities as possible... JPMorgan Chase recently announced a strategic partnership with Tampa Bay Wave and Embarc Collective to invest in women-owned tech startups. The partnership, called TechWomenFL, will receive $500,000 of investment from JPMorgan Chase over the course of two years to focus exclusively on women-owned tech startups in the Tampa Bay region. Linda Olson (Tampa Bay Wave) and Lakshmi Shenoy (Embarc Collective) accepting a check for $500,000 from JPMorgan Chase Selected businesses will go through a 90-day accelerator program. Embarc Collective’s role will include putting together a “glaring gap summit,” for this upcoming November. Lakshmi Shenoy, CEO of Embarc Collective describes her vision for the summit as, “a solution oriented summit that’s convening national thought leaders here in Tampa Bay to really think about the best practices that we can pull from other regions on growing the number entrepreneurs in a community and ensuring that we are delivering on the specific needs that women entrepreneurs have to grow their ventures. ” Tampa Bay Wave is a 501c3 nonprofit with a nationally recognized accelerator program that offers mentorship, connections and networking opportunities to founders. Unlike many other accelerator programs, they take no equity in the companies in exchange for their assistance. Embarc Collective, which recently had its ribbon cutting at its new facility in downtown Tampa, provides individualized support to startups through strategy sessions and a facility to work alongside other founders, to secure a higher likelihood of success for their business. The significance of the JPMorgan Chase partnership comes from the lack... Crafting is the worst part of parenting. My 5-year-old delights in sparkles, spangles, and gluing tiny pipe cleaners together. But purchasing, storing, and cleaning up after her various messes is a nightmare. We Craft's subscription boxes have themes, but they are not as STEM-oriented as some of our other picks. Still, they offer a tremendous amount of variety for an affordable price. The Ocean Box kept my 4-year-old busy for a whole weekend with coloring an ocean scene, gluing ribbons onto a sea horse, and smushing clay. And my 2-year-old loved his soft crab hat. Read the full article by Wired here. Out of Home (OOH) advertising startup, Nickelytics has been selected to participate in Techstars’ Smart Mobility Accelerator mentorship-driven program, announced by Techstars on January 27, 2020. The Techstars Smart Mobility Accelerator is focused on transformative smart mobility technologies with a concentration on smart infrastructure and smart cities. The program is supported by partners Compagnia Di San Paolo, Fondazione CRT and the Intesa Sanpaolo Innovation Center and hosted at the Officine Grandi Riparazioni (OGR) in Turin. Techstars was looking for 10 new exceptional teams to join their program to boost their business and take them to the next level—and Nickeltyics was one of the fortunate companies selected to participate! Beginning January 27, 2020, Nickeltyics will take part in its 13-week mentorship-driven accelerator program. Created as a pivot from the internal ad platform that supported The Nickel Ride, Nickelytics’ OOH advertising combines the power of traditional advertising and digital re-targeting to supplement the gig economy driver’s income. Their unique model guarantees success for both the advertisers and drivers. While some traditional advertising successes such as digital and television continue to plummet, OOH has consecutively grown over the past ten years. To read the full article on Nickelytics website, click here. TheIncLab, headquartered in the Washington, D. C. metro area, is pleased to announce it has opened a new human-centered Artificial Intelligence Experience (AI+X) lab in Tampa, Fla. to serve existing and new clients. This will be TheIncLab’s third U. S. location after expanding to Nashville, Tenn. in spring 2019 to expand the commercial business operations. “We are very proud of our decision to move to Tampa due to its burgeoning technology and cybersecurity industry and abundance of highly-qualified talent,” said Adriana Avakian, Founder and CEO of TheIncLab. “We spent a fair amount of time in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area in the past six months establishing key relationships and meeting with strategic partners to ensure the success of our expansion. ” TheIncLab was one of 10 exciting tech companies selected out of 432 applications from across the U. S. to participate in Tampa Bay Wave’s TechDiversity program in the summer of 2019. About TheIncLab: Founded in 2015, TheIncLab (TIL) is the first human-centered artificial intelligence experience (AI+X) lab. TIL’s award-winning, multi-disciplinary team is focused on designing and developing AI-enabled systems that learn and collaborate with humans. TIL offers its clients comprehensive capabilities for rapid ideation, software development and builds of smart systems and hardware solutions. Read the full article by the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council here. The leaders at Intrinio and Knack are included in the new Forbes 30 Under 30. The list, which includes 600 “revolutionaries” in 20 industries, is made up of people who are changing the course, and the face, of business and society, said Forbes. The list-makers were chosen from more than 15,000 nominees. Dennis Hansen, 27, and Samyr Qureshi, 26, co-founders of Knack in Tampa, are highlighted in the education category. The company recently won the Lumina Foundation Education Innovation Prize and developed a strategic partnership with Village Capital U. S. Education Program. Samyr Qureshi and Dennis Hansen (PHOTO CREDIT: Michelle Stoker Photography) Read the full article by the St. Pete Catalyst here. Brian Deming, co-founder and former president of Tampa technology company Tribridge, was named 2020 board chair for Tampa Bay Wave. Brian Deming Deming succeeds Alex Sink, former Florida Chief Financial Officer, as board chair at Wave, a nonprofit that houses and services technology startups. Sink, a veteran banker who has successfully mentored several budding entrepreneurs to the executive level, will remain an active member of the Wave board. Deming is a veteran tech entrepreneur with nearly 30 years of consulting and business leadership experience. At Tribridge, he had overall responsibility for the development and operations of the company’s consulting services, corporate growth and acquisition, and strategic direction. Under his leadership, through a combination of organic growth and acquisition, Tribridge grew from a startup to an internationally recognized consulting and solutions firm, posting a compound annual growth rate of nearly 50 percent before it was acquired in 2017 by DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC), an IT services company. To read the full story by St. Pete Catalyst, click here. Every year, CNBC scans the globe looking for the 100 venture-backed start-ups that have the potential to transform industries and become tomorrow’s household names. Our 2019 Upstart 100 list showcases young start-ups that are building and scaling businesses addressing the rapidly changing technological era we live in. Selected from more than 600 nominees globally, each one was scored on eight equally weighted quantitative metrics (read more about our methodology here). Neuro Flow’s desktop and mobile app interfaces About NeuroFlow NeuroFlow is a digital health platform optimized to help mental health patients monitor their well-being through patient-generated data, like biometrics, questionnaires and journaling. The platform is a cloud-based solution that enables remote monitoring and behavioral health integration across the continuum of care, including psychology, primary care and pain management. They received early financial backing from a number of notable accelerators, including the SXSW accelerator. Read the full article by CNBC featuring Wave company Neuroflow here. Tampa Bay Wave says its new cohort of accelerator startups may be its most diverse ever, in terms of the wide range of problems the young companies are solving. The nine tech companies that make up the fall 2019 accelerator cohort include three healthtech companies, two marketing/adtech companies, two consumer product companies, one fintech company and one marketplace company. Tampa Bay Wave, Fall 2019 Accelerator Cohort The cohort started today (November 4th 2019). The nine companies in it are: Ecover Global Inc. , Tampa Exiom, Monticello, Florida Fruutfull, Tampa Medzoomer, Tampa Nickelytics, Fort Myers OmPay, Tampa Rentit, Tampa Reptrics, Tampa SoleVenture, St. Petersburg To learn more about these companies, see the full article by the St. Pete Catalyst here. Fruutfull's co-founders and co-CEOs, Ellery Linder (left) and Danielle Rushton. Fruutfull, a one-year-old Tampa company with a unique design that allows women to personalize their brassiere size, is gaining traction. The company placed in the top five for Startup of the Year powered by Established, and accepted invitations to join Embarc Collective and the Tampa Bay Wave. On Monday, Fruutfull was one of four regional finalists at the SoGal Global Pitch Competition in Florida. SoGal is a global platform to educate and empower diverse entrepreneurs and investors, and the Florida pitch competition was one of 25 regional rounds. Criteria for the participating startups is industry-agnostic, but all the companies had to have raised less than $3 million, with at least one woman or self-identified underrepresented founder. To read the full story by the St. Pete Catalyst, click here. Here is a closer look at the Top 5 Finalists that pitched live to an All-Star Panel of Judges and the #SOTYSummit audience. 2019 Startup of the Year™ Winner re:3D (Houston & Austin, TX; San Juan, PR) - Committed to decimating the coast and scale barriers to industrial 3D printing. After pioneering the world's first affordable, human-scale industrial printer, they are now enabling 3D printing directly from reclaimed plastic pellets or flake. 2nd Place | IMMERTEC (Tampa, FL) - Provides a proprietary, real-time VR software for medical device training and sales. Their software allows any physician in the world to instantly connect and train in VR. 3rd Place | SecondKeys (Memphis, TN) - Simplifies the process of filing maintenance requests for residential properties. Software providing end-to-end ticket tracking, predictive analytics, and a qualified contractor network to help the rental market live, manage, and work better. Fruutfull (Tampa, FL) - Patent-pending design that has simplified an overly complex bra sizing system, allowing customers to create their own personal fit down to the exact centimeter. Route (Chicago, IL) - A business management platform for the building services industry, helping teams of any size monitor and streamline their work through real time data. To read the full article on the Startup of The Year website, click here. Grow Tampa Bay Here by Chandra Clines, Manager Tax & Accounting Services with Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund Technology is the future. Over 50% of the jobs will be automated. We need more diversity in tech. If you listen to headlines, it is apparent how important technology companies will be in the future. Tampa Bay is behind. But Tampa has been ranked the best city for women to start a business. The Tampa Bay Wave supports diverse companies directly through specific initiatives and indirectly through their culture. The Wave supports tech-enabled companies from building all the way through acquisition. In my nearly three years as a mentor, I have seen companies land funding, partnerships, and win competitions. I believe in the programming because I have seen how far the coaching can take a company. I have seen companies that couldn’t pitch when they started to come out of Demo Day with requests from a dozen investors. As a tax CPA, I advise on tax structuring, accounting systems, stock options, and more. As Rene with Lazarillo says, “Chandra’s mentorship helped me understand much better how taxes work in the US, been from Chile and opening a company for the first time in the US this help me be more confident in my next steps. " The energy at the Wave is contagious. And I love these passionate entrepreneurs. I volunteer because I believe in the future and I believe Tampa has a large role to play in getting there. There are three... A Smarter Way to Approach Charitable Giving by Danyell Jones, Wealth Management Specialist, Accredited Asset Management Specialist, and Financial Advisor. Two new studies conducted at the University of Chicago and Northwestern University found that giving to others makes us happier than giving to ourselves. What many people may not realize is that philanthropic giving can be even more meaningful when done in a way that is well-aligned with strategies that match your intentions and your personal financial situation. Here are a few things to consider as you contemplate the end of year giving. Identifying Charitable Interests Consider having a charitable mission statement for yourself and your family. Take the time to talk about organizations that are meaningful to you personally, or to the community as a whole. This not only helps you to more strategically give, but also helps you politely decline organizations that fall outside of your philanthropic mission for the year. After you have identified a few organizations, evaluate them effectively to ensure that the funds that you are donating are having the maximum impact. Consider researching these organizations on websites such as Charity Navigator, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, GuideStar and Give Well. Remember that organizations can do more with larger gifts – so consider making larger donations to fewer organizations throughout the year to maximize your philanthropic impact. You may also want to consider being loyal to the same organizations year over year. Non-profit organizations that have consistent donors are better able to do strategic planning and... TAMPA, Fla. (October 8, 2019) – Tampa Bay Tech is proud to announce their 16th Annual poweredUP Tampa Bay Tech Awards, presented at an evening ceremony on Friday, November 8, 2019 at Armature Works, Tampa, FL. The annual technology awards are presented to acknowledge excellence at both the corporate, and individual level. “This year’s winners are truly remarkable. They’re the companies growing off the charts and the people driving impactful change in this community,” says Jill St Thomas, CRO/Executive Director of Tampa Bay Tech. “Each and every day they are tirelessly building this thriving tech community that we call home and it is wonderful to see them being honored. ” This year’s honorees follow: Tech Leader of the Year: Dan Lasher, Corporate Vice President, Enterprise Architecture, Governance and Cyber Security, Tech Data Emerging Tech Leader of the Year: Kishen Sridharan, Cybersecurity Partnership & Outreach Executive, Office of the CISO, Raymond James Tech Unicorn of the Year: KnowBe4 Tech Project of the Year: CrewConnect, Power Design Tech Company of the Year: AgileThought Community Dedication and Leadership Award: Linda Olson, Co-Founder & CEO, Tampa Bay Wave To read the full story by Tampa Bay News Wire, click here. An Introduction to SEO and SEM for Startup Businesses by Amanda Peterson, Contributor at Enlightened Digital. You’ve built a business, and now your website is up and running. But how can you drive traffic to this site? One way is by optimizing it for search engines. There are two different ways to increase a site’s ranking in search engine result pages: optimization (or SEO) and marketing (aka SEM). SEO is a low cost but high reward strategy for your company. Although SEM does require some monetary investment, it aims to quickly rank your website in search results. In this piece, you can learn more about which option would be best for your business. Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Something to Start Now This tactic is the process of receiving organic traffic from major internet search engines such as Google, Bing, and Yahoo. The goal of SEO is to have your business’s website ranking at the top of the first page of results. This way, you can push traffic to your website without paying for it. Some of the factors that go into a good SEO ranking include the quality of website content, the placement of keywords or key phrases, and the use of links pointing to other websites. In the long run, SEO helps set your website for success. Keep in mind, you can hire an SEO firm to help with the initial kickoff of this process. SEO is an ongoing practice, and it can take some time before results are... A burgeoning tech scene flanked by two major universities in the same city has helped usher a new generation into Tampa Bay’s startup space. We’ve got 11 of the region’s best (and youngest) entrepreneurs, technologists and innovators below for our first ever list of Tampa Bay entrepreneurs ages 25 or under. Jonathan Truong, (25), co-founder of Verapy. Jonathan Truong, Verapy After having meningitis at 7 years old and a stroke at 9, Truong began a journey of sustaining injuries and physical therapy. “While I completed my therapies, I wished there was a way to keep me motivated through each difficult and challenging rehabilitation process,” Truong said. He and his co-founder created Verapy, which is virtual reality “games” that help patients improve their mobility. Verapy software is able to target shoulders, wrists and elbows, as well as the neck and lower extremities. The software is now in six clinics. To read the full article by Tampa Bay Inno, click here. Evolving From a Startup to an Established Business by Jim Donatelli, St. Petersburg/Clearwater Market Executive for Regions Bank The startup days can be hard at times with long hours, big accomplishments and major decisions. Eventually, though, your business will need to become a more mature entity. Here are three critical components to think about as you transition out of the startup phase. We find that these insights can often help companies avoid pitfalls that can accompany growth. CultureA startup's dynamic atmosphere is unlike any other business environment. An intimate team works tirelessly together, feeling as if anything is possible. The highs are high, the lows are low, and the emotional rollercoaster is as intoxicating as it is draining. As your company scales, your office, or offices, will need to reflect stability, consistency, and experience—for the good of your employees and your customers. But, ideally, this next version of culture still reflects the spirit of those early days. Remember why you started your company in the first place. Sometimes businesses make the mistake of trying to be all things to all people as they grow. Stick to what you do best. Create realistic, achievable goals and remember your purpose. Turnover is a natural part of business evolution. You want to ensure that, as your company grows, the culture that attracted strong talent to your organization continues to thrive, even if some of the people change over time. And remember, your company’s culture isn’t merely defined by how you see it as... The Myth of the Insta-Entrepreneur by Andre Hampton, founder and managing director of StreamS Capital and of Factory 114. With a few hundred bucks, a snazzy social media profile and a couple of clever posts, everyone can look like a successful “Insta” entrepreneur, right? Not exactly. The fantasy might look like that, but the reality is quite different. Those people who are committed, work diligently to solve problems, and continue to innovate—those are the people who find real success within their reach. Assuming of course that they don’t quit or give up, despite the seemingly insurmountable challenges that await them along their journey.   Hard Work is Key Let’s face it, entrepreneurship is hard. Real entrepreneurs know this. When it comes to starting, stabilizing, and growing a successful endeavor regardless of whether it’s a tech company or a service-based business, the truth is the same. It’s a lot of hard work to get off the ground and to grow. If you go into it knowing that, you’ll save yourself a lot of heartache. Expect that nothing will be handed to you. Accept that you need the tenacity to get the job done and the fortitude to withstand the long days and years ahead. If you don’t, it’s simply not going to happen. Most startups fail. Most small businesses fail. An overwhelming number of founders find themselves in this position within their first three years. They have to face the music that “it didn’t work. ” They either move on to... Ayuda a las personas con discapacidad visual a navegar por interiores con su 'app' gratuita En el mundo hay 217 millones de personas con alguna deficiencia visual de moderada a grave; de ellas, 36 millones son ciegas, según la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Para estas personas, los desplazamientos diarios pueden convertirse en todo un reto, algo que les aleja del mundo laboral y reduce su autonomía y sociabilidad. Aunque la navegación al aire libre es cada vez más sencilla gracias a distintos servicios de posicionamiento, moverse por interiores sigue siendo un desafío para este colectivo. René Espinosa (Chile), 29 Lazarillo Para mejorar esta situación, el ingeniero civil eléctrico y fundador de Lazarillo, el chileno René Espinosa, ha creado LazarilloApp, una aplicación que aumenta la accesibilidad de edificios públicos y privados para personas con discapacidad visual. Gracias a este avance, Espinosa se ha convertido en uno de los Innovadores menores de 35 Latinoamérica 2019 de MIT Technology Review en español. Para leer el artículo completo de MIT Technology Review en español, haga clic aquí. Protect Your IP: Three Important Agreements for Founders and Executives. By Tom Cockriel, Trenam Law Attorney As you grow your business, develop your intellectual property, and fine-tune your processes, it will be very important that you protect your confidential information and intellectual property. Most people know that obtaining patents, trademarks, and copyright registrations are common ways to protect intellectual property, but the agreements that you implement with your employees and third parties can often be even more important in protecting your confidential information and intellectual property. This post focuses on three often-overlooked agreements that you should use to your advantage. Non-Disclosure Agreements. You should consider utilizing a non-disclosure agreement for any individual or entity that will access your confidential information, including potential business partners, investors, and customers. The non-disclosure agreement should include a broad definition of confidential information, including customer lists and supplier lists, and any other confidential information being shared with that party. The duration of the confidentiality obligations may be different on a case-by-case basis but the duration should be adequate to protect your information, which might be perpetual with respect to information that could be your trade secrets. There are specific provisions that may need to be included in your non-disclosure agreement based on jurisdictional considerations. Employee Confidentiality and Invention Assignment Agreements. As the names suggest, these agreements bind your employees to confidentiality obligations and assign inventions from the employee to your company. Companies often mistakenly rely solely on the work made for hire doctrine for ownership... Excellence Leads at Florida Polytechnic University By Dr. Randy Avent, Florida Polytechnic University President Today’s rapid pace of technological advancement means Florida’s workforce needs to be educated, nimble, and ready to respond to our state’s evolving needs. All along the I-4 Corridor and throughout the state, we are seeing a definite shift toward more tech businesses moving in and looking to hire highly-skilled engineers, scientists, and sculptors of the future. At Florida Polytechnic University, we are running head-on into the forefront of a new era. Innovation is in our DNA. We attract top students who identify with our ethos of the academic vanguard, committed to excellence in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math(STEM). This fundamental predisposition toward discovery means we support our students as they work to make their big ideas a reality. This environment is perfect not only for creating the engineers and visionaries who graduate ready to fill the state’s high-tech job needs but also for producing entrepreneurs who are not afraid to take risks and develop solutions to modern life problems. Our institution was established in 2012 with a mission different from any other public university in the state. Leadership in Tallahassee had the courage and the vision to create a university that would respond to the state’s needs to be competitive in the high-tech, global marketplace. Florida Poly’s exclusive focus on STEM and close industry relationships makes it more than an institution of higher learning. Our University is an agent of transformation and a...