Soft Landing Services

Bring Your Startup to the U.S.

Land in Tampa Bay.

A guided, multi-phase path for early-stage tech companies ready to expand into the U.S. market, backed by Tampa Bay Wave’s national network, deep bench of mentors, and 10+ year track record.

Who Should Apply?

Our Soft Landing Services are built for early-stage technology companies ready to expand their business into the US, particularly Florida. We’re looking for teams that meet the following:

U.S. Market Readiness

Serious consideration for US market entry, with resources committed to the process.

Team

At least two members of the leadership team working full-time and exclusively on the company.

Industry

AI, cybersecurity, fintech, healthcare, medtech or defensetech. Other industries considered.

Market Validation & Sales

Customers (pilot or paying), clinical trials, partnerships, or IP milestones. Pre-revenue teams are welcome if the product and team are strong.

Financial Runway

At least six months of operating cash flow, with a path to sustained growth.

"Coming from Mexico, the transition to building and growing a business in the U.S. came with a lot of unknowns. Through Tampa Bay Wave, I gained access to a community, resources and connections that helped me better understand the U.S. market and take meaningful steps toward establishing OTIF here.

Today, I’m running OTIF from Austin, Texas, and continuing to grow the business in the U.S. Tampa Bay Wave gave me the support and network to turn what felt like a big leap into a real opportunity."

Pamela Villarreal Global CEO, Otif

Why Apply?

Tampa Bay Wave has a long history of supporting early-stage tech startups with soft landing and visa support. To date, we’ve worked with startups from 30 countries.

Every company gets a collaborative, non-competitive, hybrid program built for early-stage needs:

A dedicated support team from day one
Access to Wave's network: 650+ alumni, 300+ mentors, 650+ investors, plus soft landing and immigration experts
A welcoming peer community, not a competitive cohort
Strategic connections to fast-track growth
One-on-one mentoring and coaching

Want more? Companies can layer on one of Wave’s world-class accelerator programs alongside Phases 3 and 4 for pitch coaching and investment readiness training.

How It Works

Four phases, built for flexibility. Get the advice and connections you need to fast-track your US entry, at whatever level of commitment makes sense for where you are.

Phase 1: Engagement & Immersion

We start by getting to know your company and your goals, so every phase that follows is tailored to what you actually need.

Phase 2: 30-Day Virtual Program

100% virtual, so you get expert advice while minimizing travel costs. Includes 1:1s with soft landing professionals, investors, and industry experts, plus 10 educational sessions covering immigration, U.S. business incorporation and culture, legal, and hiring.

Phase 3: Four-Day Tampa Bay Tour

A deep dive into the Tampa Bay region before you commit to your U.S. entry plans. In-person site visits, plus introductions to local professionals and strategic connections. Can stand alone or run alongside one of Wave's industry-focused Accelerator programs.

Phase 4: 6-Month Expansion Support (via CORE)

Ongoing support after you've entered the U.S. A dedicated support team, CEO roundtables, peer group meetings, continued mentorship and introductions, plus $100K+ in discounts and savings through Wave's CORE membership.

Already an Member?

"Tampa Bay Wave was a key part of my journey from Chile to building a business in the U.S. I joined Wave during COVID, at a time when establishing a company in a new country felt especially challenging. The support, connections and community helped me navigate the U.S. market with greater confidence and build a strong foundation for Eskuad.

Today, Eskuad is well established in the U.S. I’ve received my green card, bought my first home, and most importantly, the business is thriving. Tampa Bay Wave was an important part of that journey."

Max Echeverria Founder, Eskuad

Why Us?

Tampa Bay Wave is a mission-driven 501(c)(3) built to help accelerate Florida’s innovation economy by helping entrepreneurs transform innovative ideas into real-world solutions and scalable businesses in the Tampa Bay region and beyond.

We’re positioned to make your U.S. expansion work:

Strong national and international reputation, attracting 1,000+ applications a year in cybersecurity, AI, fintech, healthcare, and defensetech
10+ year track record, unmatched in Florida, with $1.8B+ raised by portfolio startups

The largest ESO community in the region: 15,000+ mentors, investors, and community members

Real soft landing experience: An internally built Soft Landing Playbook that's already supported 30 relocations to Tampa Bay

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