Newsletter 11.16.2023

Author

Masterminds Tampa Bay
November 16, 2023

Happy Thursday! This is Masterminds Tampa Bay. We’re your friendly neighborhood startup paperboy - Extra! Extra! Read all about it!

Can you believe there are only 45 days left in 2023? Time flies, especially in the ever-evolving world of tech and startups in Tampa Bay. Here's your latest update on what's been happening around us. It's been a year full of news and insights, and we're grateful you've been on this journey with us. Let's sprint through these last few weeks together with the freshest info in hand!

Here’s what we have for you today:

  • City of Tampa brings on new aid for small businesses

  • Tampa Bay virtual film studio gets a big investor

  • $400K was granted to this Tampa Bay accelerator

  • Who won what as Tampa Bay Tech celebrates

  • The one event you don’t want to miss

THE SPOTLIGHT

City of Tampa Introduces Small Business Navigator Position to Support Entrepreneurs

The city of Tampa has inaugurated the Small Business Navigator role within the Department of Economic Opportunity to bolster local entrepreneurs.

CT Harris has been appointed to this position, aiming to connect 1,000 entrepreneurs with vital resources for establishing and growing their businesses.

The role is focused on educating business owners about available resources and fostering networks, including collaborations with organizations like the Tampa Bay Wave.

Additionally, Harris will assist eligible businesses in obtaining certifications, such as small business or minority-owned business certifications, enabling them to bid on specific city contracts. This initiative aims to enhance supplier diversity and create opportunities for business owners in Tampa.

COMMUNITY

Join The Conversation

FUNDING

Accenture Invests in Tampa-Based Virtual Film Production Company, Vu Technologies

Vu Technologies, a Tampa-based virtual production technology company, has secured an undisclosed investment from global consulting firm Accenture. 

The investment was made through Accenture Ventures, the firm's investment program. It is part of Accenture Ventures' Project Spotlight initiative, focusing on identifying disruptive enterprise technology.

While the specific terms of the investment were not disclosed, Accenture's support is expected to accelerate Vu Technologies' efforts to merge virtual production and cutting-edge technologies, providing immersive experiences for clients.

Vu Technologies employs technologies like motion capture, virtual reality, and its proprietary generative AI, Vu.ai. The company has previously collaborated with major entities such as Amazon, CBS Sports, and Disney on various productions.

Tampa Bay Wave Secures Nearly $400K Federal Grant for Investment Fund

The Tampa Bay Wave accelerator has been awarded a $396,000 three-year federal grant under the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s Build to Scale Program.

This program aims to strengthen and expand startup economies in regions with emerging investment environments.

Tampa Bay Wave's grant, known as the Capital Challenge, is intended to establish a fund, the Tampa Bay Innovation Seed Fund, to support diverse, equity-based funding for the region's startups.

The initiative plans to raise a $10 million fund, engaging 80 investors and focusing on 25 to 30 high-growth startups in cybersecurity, fintech, and healthtech.

TICKLE YOUR BRAIN

Pirates of the Caribbean 2003


In the realm where Bayshore's charms unfold, A business sailed, its story to be told. Skyway's whispers, Ybor's tales untold, Challenges faced, a pivot to behold.

Channelside hums, Tech Hubs are near, The answer whispers, crystal clear. In Tampa's heart, a word to say, To scale new heights, a pivot's the way.

What word am I, in this Tampa lore?

A change of course, to fortunes soar. From Bay area's hub to heights grand, In business seas, a pivot takes its stand.

What am I?

(Pause for some deep thinking...)

SO FANTAS-TECH!

Tampa Bay Tech Celebrates Companies and Leaders at 20th Annual Awards

Tampa Bay Tech, a non-profit technology council led by Executive Director Meghan O’Keefe, recently honored outstanding companies and executives at its 20th annual awards event held at Armature Works in Tampa. Recognizing key contributors to the region's tech industry, the winners across various categories included:

  • Technology Leader of the Year: Andrew McIntyre, SVP of Technology and Innovation at Vinik Sports Group.

  • Technology Company of the Year: Abacode Cybersecurity and Compliance.

  • Emerging Technology Leader of the Year: Samantha Ramos, Founder and CEO at Tampa Bay Techies.

  • Emerging Technology Company of the Year: Lazarillo, a Chilean-founded startup assisting the visually impaired community.

  • Technology Project of the Year: The Dream Tapestry by the Dalí Museum, an AI experience weaving interpretations of visitor dreams.

  • Community Dedication and Leadership Award: Michelle Bauer, COO of the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council.

MEME STREET

Here’s a Meme You Can Probably Relate To

If You Had To Go To One Last Event This Year…

Join the Tampa Bay Tech Leaders Year-End Celebration at Aloft Downtown! A night of networking, idea-sharing, and fun awaits with fellow entrepreneurs and startup enthusiasts. Early Bird RSVP Today 🐦

Enjoy cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, DJ music, awards, and a raffle. Don't miss this chance to connect with Tampa Bay's vibrant startup community and explore new opportunities. Mark your calendars for an inspiring and unforgettable evening of celebration!

This event is proudly sponsored by Flexsible 

A software development agency focused on emerging technologies including Blockchain, AI/Machine Learning, Mobile App Development (including Progressive Web Apps), IoT, and more.

Flexsible exists to build incredible technology that makes a positive impact among businesses, individual lives, and around the world.

Notable clients include Barnes & Noble, Simba, Sentinel and many Tampa Bay startups/companies.

For early-stage entrepreneurs and companies, Flexsible is the software development partner enabling you to take your idea from zero to market-ready.

For established companies, Flexsible is capable of upgrading existing systems or building new solutions that increase business KPI’s without disrupting current business operations.

When you need flexibility, talk to Flexsible!

WORTHY MENTIONS: UPDATES, TOOLS, RESOURCES

HIT THE INBOX OF 3K+ TAMPA BAY FOUNDERS, ENTREPRENEURS & STARTUPS

Advertise with us to get your brand in front of the Who's Who of startups, tech, and businesses in Tampa Bay. Masterminds are some of Tampa Bay's most driven and connected entrepreneurs who are always looking for their next interesting product, service, or tool. Get in touch today.

Brain Teaser Answer:

A pirate

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