Tampa’s entrepreneurial landscape is thriving, thanks to a variety of local organizations dedicated to supporting small businesses and startups. Whether you’re launching a new venture or looking to expand an existing one, these resources offer valuable assistance to help you succeed.
Tampa Entrepreneur Support Hub
The City of Tampa’s Entrepreneur Support Hub provides mentorship, training, and technical assistance to small businesses and entrepreneurs. Funded by a Community Development Block Grant, the initiative offers business incubator support, technical assistance, and scale-up services. Eligible businesses may also qualify for microgrants to support their growth. For more information, visit the City of Tampa’s official website.
BŪP INNO
BŪP INNO is a nonprofit organization that serves as a catalyst for tech and innovation in Tampa Bay. It connects founders, partners, and capital to build companies that stay and scale in the region. Their programming includes hackathons and incubators designed to surface bold ideas and support founders through mentorship and capital readiness. Learn more at BŪP INNO’s website.
THAPgroup
The Tampa-Hillsborough Action Plan, Inc. (THAP) focuses on removing barriers and creating pathways to opportunity through healthcare access, affordable housing, community development, entrepreneurship, education, and workforce initiatives. Their Entrepreneur Development Hub offers coworking spaces, training, and events to support underrepresented entrepreneurs. Details are available on THAPgroup’s website.
Lowth Entrepreneurship Center
Located at the University of Tampa, the Lowth Entrepreneurship Center provides resources, mentorship, and real-world experiences to help entrepreneurs turn ideas into thriving ventures. The center features unique spaces designed for business development, including an inspiration center, pitch room, and collaboration kitchen. More information can be found on the University of Tampa’s website.
Action Zone
Action Zone offers support, structure, and strategy for veteran, military-connected, and first responder entrepreneurs ready to take action. Their programs include Action Zone Activate for founders needing clarity and direction, Action Zone Incubate for those ready to grow, and Action Zone Accelerate for scaling businesses. Visit Action Zone’s website for more details.
Florida SBDC at USF
The Florida Small Business Development Center at the University of South Florida plays a key role in the Tampa Entrepreneur Support Hub, providing technical assistance and scale-up support to small businesses in underserved communities. Their services aim to help businesses start, strengthen, and expand. More information is available on the USF website.
TiE Tampa Bay
TiE Tampa Bay is part of a global network that champions the next generation of entrepreneurship. Through the collective experience of the area’s top entrepreneurs and leaders, they invest in people and ideas with the greatest growth potential. Their focus includes networking, mentoring, and providing access to funding. Learn more at TiE Tampa Bay’s website.
Embarc Collective
Embarc Collective is an innovation hub that provides expert access to specialized expertise across every business function. They offer mentorship, capital readiness, and community support to help startups build sustainable, scalable companies. More details can be found on Embarc Collective’s website.
Entrepreneur Collaborative Center
Established by the Hillsborough County Economic Development Department, the Entrepreneur Collaborative Center provides entrepreneurs with easy access to business service providers, resources, mentorship, and specialty training. Services cater to various stages of business development and categories. Visit the Hillsborough County website for more information.
By leveraging these resources, Tampa’s entrepreneurs can access the support and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business, contributing to the vibrant local economy.