Newsletter 12/12/2024

Happy Thursday! This is Masterminds Tampa Bay - the newsletter stuffed with everything you might’ve missed in the Tampa Bay startup world this week.

Here’s what we’ve got for you this week:

• Sarasota video platform invests $20M into Bitcoin

• Tampa based video streaming service starts to expand

• The $$$ on SBA loans given out in 2024

• $14M awarded to this blue-tech based business

CRYPTO

Rumble Joins the Bitcoin Boom with $20M Investment

Longboat Key-based video platform Rumble plans to purchase up to $20 million in bitcoin, taking advantage of its record-breaking $103,000 valuation.

CEO Chris Pavlovski cites bitcoin's potential as an inflation hedge and expects a boost in crypto adoption under President-elect Trump’s administration. Bitcoin’s value surged 21% in the past month, driven by market optimism and policy shifts. Rumble, a publicly traded company (Nasdaq: RUM), reported $65 million in revenue and continues to capitalize on its conservative-leaning audience.

STARTUPS

Your Home Digital Expands to Streaming with Your Home TV

Founded in 2016 by former banker Sean Stockell, Tampa-based Your Home Digital initially aimed to empower homebuyers and renovators with its educational platform, Your Home One Source.

In 2021, the company pivoted to streaming with the launch of Your Home TV, a browser-based network emphasizing family-friendly, educational, and uplifting content. With over 1,000 programs and nearly 100 million views, Your Home TV features 55 channel partnerships and a model empowering content creators to retain ownership. Plans for 2025 include doubling its audience and exclusive partnerships like broadcasting Legends Soccer matches, showcasing its innovative alliance-driven approach.

TICKLE YOUR BRAIN

I grow bigger the more you take away from me.

What am I?

(Pause for some deep thinking...)

FUNDING

Tampa Bay Businesses Secure $580M in SBA Loans in 2024

Tampa Bay businesses received over 1,000 SBA 7(a) loans totaling more than $580 million during fiscal year 2024 (October 2023 to September 2024). This marks a 23% increase from 2023 and more than double the amount awarded in 2020, showcasing the region's economic growth post-Covid-19. Restaurants led as top recipients, with full-service establishments receiving $28.5 million and limited-service ones $14 million. Dental offices followed closely, securing 25 loans totaling $28.5 million.

MEME STREET

Here’s a Meme You Can Probably Relate To

CLIMATE TECH

$14M Secured to Propel Blue Tech Innovation in Tampa Bay

The St. Petersburg Innovation District, Tampa Bay Wave, and USF’s College of Marine Science secured $13.9 million from NOAA to establish "The Continuum," a blue tech accelerator focused on advancing marine technology solutions for environmental resilience.

Funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, this initiative aims to scale startups innovating in renewable energy, pollution control, hazard mitigation, and ocean sustainability. Entrepreneurs will receive business support, funding, and mentorship, with operations spanning Florida and beyond. The first cohort is set to launch in late spring, marking Tampa Bay as a hub for the blue economy.

Conquer Winter in Style: Best Men’s Sneakers from Nike Air Max.

Winter is here, and it’s time to elevate your look while staying warm and comfortable. The Nike Air Max collection is perfect for the modern man ready to tackle the season. From the edgy Air Max Plus to the versatile AM1, these sneakers combine style with features designed to keep your feet happy all winter long.

Whether you're tackling holiday shopping or celebrating with friends, these kicks are your perfect companion. Find your ideal pair and effortlessly elevate your winter wardrobe this season.

Treat yourself or a loved one to a stylish pair from the collection this holiday season.

Shop the Men’s Collection

WORTHY MENTIONS: UPDATES, EVENTS, RESOURCES, ETC…

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Answer:

A hole!

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