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Happy Thursday! Welcome to 'Mind Your Business' by Masterminds Tampa Bay, where we share startup wisdom like passing down a family recipe – with care, tradition, and a pinch of secret spice.

Here’s what we have for you today:

• The impact AI is having on Cybersecurity

• Techstars + Startup Weekend Tampa Bay Winners

• What did this cosmetics CEO say about startups?

• There’s another March Madness in full swing, who do you have your eye on?

CYBER SECURITY

AI's Impact on Cybersecurity Explored at Tampa's Sunshine Cyber Conference

The Sunshine Cyber Conference, hosted by Cyber Florida, highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on cybersecurity. Speakers emphasized the intertwining futures of AI and cybersecurity, addressing challenges and opportunities in the evolving landscape.

Notably, Winn Schwartau cautioned about the addictive nature of technology and the blurred lines between reality and virtual experiences. He underscored the need for heightened scrutiny due to the proliferation of generative AI and hyper realistic media.

Bianca Lewis, founder of Girls Who Hack, warned of AI-driven misinformation and advocated for skepticism in consuming information. Panel discussions delved into AI's role in governmental cybersecurity protocols, with Jeremy Rodgers emphasizing the importance of human oversight in AI-driven decisions.

The absence of legislative policies on AI in Florida was acknowledged, prompting discussions on future regulatory frameworks. Additionally, the panelists highlighted efforts in higher education to integrate AI and cybersecurity into curricula to meet industry demands.

Join The Conversation…

Is it people or process? Both? Let the community know your thoughts »

TECH STARTUPS

Techstars + Startup Weekend Winners

In case you missed it, the University of South Florida St. Pete campus hosted an epic Startup Weekend Tampa Bay 2024! After a four-year break, it came back strong, thanks to a cool partnership with the USF Nault Center for Entrepreneurship.

They started with 15 startup ideas and ended with a panel of judges, including the awesome Alison Barlow and Allen Clary, picking the top three. Here’s who stood out:

1. Care Collective – A game-changing caregiving platform took first place.

2. Click Brain – An AI SEO booster snagged second.

3. Prodisphere – An AI sports scouting tool scored third.

Big props to Will Freeman and everyone in the Tampa Bay entrepreneurship scene for showing support. It’s amazing what happens when we all come together. Can’t wait to see these startups take off!

TICKLE YOUR BRAIN

I'm in high demand, but low in supply. Customers chase me, but I'm hard to buy. When I appear, excitement runs wild, but grab me quick, I'm soon exiled.

What am I?

(Pause for some deep thinking...)

GROWTH

Tarte Cosmetics CEO Offers Valuable Insights to Students and Startup Founders at USF

Maureen Kelly, CEO of Tarte Cosmetics, shared invaluable insights with students and startup founders at the University of South Florida (USF).

Offering advice from her entrepreneurial journey, Kelly emphasized perseverance in the face of challenges, the importance of celebrating wins, and staying present in the moment.

She advocated for embracing innovation, particularly in leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), and encouraged flexibility and initiative in pursuing opportunities.

Kelly also stressed the significance of self-advocacy and navigating power dynamics with confidence. Her guidance provided practical wisdom and inspiration for individuals navigating the entrepreneurial landscape, empowering them to overcome obstacles and strive for success.

HEALTHTECH

Inno Madness 2024: Tampa Bay Startup Competition Kicks Off

Inno Madness 2024 has commenced with 32 startups competing in bracket-style rounds. Readers have until April 8 to vote for their favorites.

The matchups feature a diverse array of companies, from cybersecurity firms like Deepwatch and A-LIGN to emerging startups like Rush Power and Qleet. Other matchups include edtech startups, proptech companies, and ventures in AI and cryptocurrency. Notable contenders include Tarte Cosmetics, Knack, and Bedrock.

Each matchup highlights the innovation and entrepreneurship thriving in the Tampa Bay area, showcasing the region's dynamic startup ecosystem.

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MEME STREET

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WORTHY MENTIONS: UPDATES, TOOLS, RESOURCES

• 💸A mom’s side-hustle is now inside of Macy’s stores (in less than a year!)

• 📅 Want to sponsor an upcoming Masterminds event? Register here!

• ♻️ Know a local founder working on a sustainability startup? Get in touch!

• 🤖 Are you deep in AI tech? Join our discussion panel at our next event in late April/May! Send us an email!

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