Policy & Advocacy

In early October we led a delegation of business and community leaders to Washington, D.C., to advocate for issues critical to our region’s workforce, military community, and long-term economic resiliency. During the visit, Chamber representatives met with key staff from the offices of Representatives Laurel Lee, Gus Bilirakis, Daniel Webster, Scott Franklin, Randy Fine, and Greg Steube, discussing legislative priorities that directly impact Tampa Bay’s competitiveness and quality of life. Read More

We were proud to welcome a delegation of community leaders from the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce for a benchmarking visit focused on regional collaboration, talent development, and economic growth. The day’s agenda highlighted the initiatives that make Tampa Bay a model for business and leadership alignment. Tampa Bay Chamber President and CEO Bob Rohrlack shared with the delegation an overview of our region’s culture, growth and leadership. Later in the morning, Antoine Richards with Institute for Diversity & Inclusion in Emergency Management and Chair of Collegiate Leadership Tampa Bay (CLTB) discussed how the program cultivates young talent and can be replicated in other communities.

In partnership with local Chambers of Commerce, we were delighted to co-host the recent Florida Institute for Political Leadership (FIPL) Campaign School & Community Leadership Training, bringing together emerging public servants for campaign training and leadership development across Florida. This collaboration underscores our commitment to building a strong pipeline of civic-minded talent in the Tampa Bay region—equipping future elected officials, civic leaders and community advocates with the tools and network they need to step into public service.

The Policy Advisory Committee received a presentation from Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) Superintendent Van Ayres and members of the HCPS leadership team. The presentation included updates on their millage referendum and highlights and data from the HCPS 2024–2025 Impact Report.

Our final Public Policy Roundtable of the year featured County Commission Chairs Ken Hagan (Hillsborough), Kathryn Starkey (Pasco), and Brian Scott (Pinellas), moderated by Monica Maybank of The Almond Group. The regional leaders shared updates on critical developments and inter-county collaboration efforts that are shaping land use planning, public services, and economic growth across the Tampa Bay area. Attendees gained valuable insights into the policies and partnerships driving the region's future, with direct access to the elected officials making key decisions that impact businesses and communities throughout all three counties. Thank you to our presenting sponsor St. Joseph's Hospital.

Federal Advocacy & Media Engagement: The Tampa Bay Chamber provided a quoted statement for a press release supporting the bipartisan Clean Up DEBRIS Act, legislation that expands eligibility for federal disaster debris removal assistance to include all residential communities—such as condominiums, manufactured home parks, and homeowners’ associations. Our support emphasized the importance of closing a long-standing gap that has left many homeowners bearing out-of-pocket costs after natural disasters, while underscoring how timely debris removal accelerates neighborhood recovery, supports business reopening, and strengthens regional economic resilience. Read More

Workforce Development 

Keidrian Kunkel, CEO of CareerSource Tampa Bay, shared with us engaging insights on workforce trends and talent development strategies inspired by meaningful dialogue among business leaders, educators, and policymakers. Thank you to our Platinum Sponsors: Suncoast Credit Union and Ultimate Medical Academy, and our Gold Sponsors: Hillsborough Community College and Shumaker for their continued support.

The Tampa Bay Chamber brought together leading workforce development experts for Work Redefined: Beyond the Degree to discuss the future of skills-based hiring and alternative pathways to career readiness in high-demand industries. Chris Claytor from The Beck Group, Steve Cona from Associated Builders and Contractors, and Meghan O'Keefe from Tampa Bay Tech shared innovative strategies for building stronger talent pipelines through apprenticeships, industry certifications, and public-private partnerships. Chamber members gained actionable insights on how to adapt their recruitment approaches and leverage workforce development programs to stay competitive in today's evolving labor market.

Special thanks to our presenting sponsor MUFG, our platinum sponsors: Suncoast Credit Union & Ultimate Medical Academy, and our gold sponsors: Hillsborough College & Shumaker.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with The College Board, has awarded the Tampa Bay Chamber Foundation with a $20,000 grant to fund key workforce development initiatives, support business and financial literacy as core components of student success, and strengthen the region’s long-term talent pipeline. Read More

In December the Workforce Development Committee held its final meeting of the year. The meeting included a review of the committee’s accomplishments over the past year, member feedback, and a preview of priorities for 2026. The committee also announced the incoming 2026 Committee Chair Rebecca Siviglia, Vice-Chair Chris Claytor and the reinstatement of the Policy Liaison position, which has been filled by Emma Tomlin.

Military 

In partnership with the Tampa Bay Defense Alliance, and numerous community organizations, we have been working with our Chamber members to coordinate resources for military members, federal workers, and their families impacted by the government shutdown.

Supported by community partners like Blue Star Families, Feeding Tampa Bay, and Metropolitan Ministries, impacted families who attended the Service-to-Service Mobile Pantry event at MacDill Air Force Base were provided with fresh groceries and pet food, as well as the Chamber’s Welcome to Military Bay, USA bags containing household items. Read More

At the October meeting of the Chamber’s Military Advisory Committee, members heard from CareerSource Tampa Bay about the array of programs and resources available to support veterans and military spouses in finding meaningful careers across our region. The presentation highlighted how they connect military affiliated talent with local employers, provide specialized career coaching, and offer training opportunities that align with in-demand industries.

During the Association of Defense Communities’ Installation Innovation Forum (IIF) it was announced that Tampa Bay will host the event next year and welcome leaders from across the country to experience firsthand why our region is known as Military Bay, USA. This annual national gathering of military, community, and industry leaders focuses on advancing innovation, resilience, and partnerships that strengthen America’s defense communities. 

The Tampa Bay Chamber, South Tampa Chamber, Tampa Bay Defense Alliance, and the MacDill Support Group are proud to announce that the Tampa Bay region has been awarded the 2024 Abilene Trophy, recognizing the nation’s most outstanding community support to an Air Mobility Command (AMC) base. The award was officially announced by the Abilene Military Affairs Committee in partnership with AMC and Air Force Reserve Command Public Affairs offices. Read More

In recognition of Veterans Day, WEDU PBS highlighted Air Force Veterans and Chamber Members Crystal Lewis with HNTB and Michael Chavarria with the American Red Cross. 

Watch Crystal's Story                                     Watch Michael's Story

Members of the Military Advisory Committee attended the Hillsborough County Bar Association’s Veterans luncheon to hear from guest speaker retired U.S. Navy Captain Jeff Cathey.

On October 10, the Collegiate Leadership Tampa Bay (CLTB) Class of 2026 embarked on an immersive day exploring Tampa’s government, legal and real-estate sectors. Cohort member, Ana Clara Mattjie De Medeiros, shared an inside look and recap of the day. Read More

Two weeks later, the class participated in their second program day, dedicated to the financial services, banking, technology, and entrepreneurial industries. They had the opportunity to visit USAA, Embarc Collective, and Rapid7, while also connecting with high-impact leaders within those respective fields.

Applications for the 2027 Collegiate Leadership class closed on November 21st. Modeled after our Leadership Tampa program, Collegiate Leadership is an academic-year-long program that gives students the opportunity to explore career paths in the nonprofit, private, public, and philanthropic sectors through immersive program days.

CL ’26 set out on their final program day of the year on November 14^th. This impactful day was centered upon sustainability, infrastructure, and transportation and included visits to Sky Center One, Tampa International Airport, and The Florida Aquarium, as well as a guided tour of Port Tampa Bay. University of Tampa student Taylor Burns wrote about her experience here.

Looking ahead, the application period for the 2027 class has ended, and we are thrilled to share that this cycle brought in the most applications in the program’s history—a major milestone that reflects the growing impact and visibility of the program as it enters its seventh year! The selection process is already underway, and applicants will be invited for in-person interviews in February.

The Emerging Leaders of Tampa Bay Nonprofit Fair at Feeding Tampa Bay was a tremendous success! Dozens of community organizations came together to connect, collaborate, and share opportunities to make an even greater impact across the Tampa Bay region. Attendees engaged with local nonprofits doing incredible work in areas like food insecurity, education, housing, and workforce development.

A heartfelt thank-you to Feeding Tampa Bay for hosting and to all the nonprofits and attendees who joined us to strengthen the partnerships that keep our community thriving. We also extend our gratitude to United Way Suncoast for their continued sponsorship and support of this meaningful event. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected Tampa Bay.

The 2025 Aspire Leadership Development Program, sponsored by Ice Cold Air, officially concluded in November with a cohort of 30 engaged participants. The program’s four-session series delivered high-impact content in entrepreneurial thinking, feedback, financial literacy, and work-life integration. Thank you to all presenters who supported another successful year of Aspire.

The Emerging Leaders of Tampa Bay Annual Meeting, co-presented by Ultimate Medical Academy and Leadership Tampa Alumni, brought together 200+ young professionals and business leaders for an inspiring evening of celebration, networking, and leadership development. From recognizing outstanding community impact to welcoming new leadership, the event highlighted the continued growth and influence of Tampa Bay's next generation of leaders. During the event, Megan Keplinger was presented with the 2025 Deanne Dewey Roberts Emerging Leader Award, recognizing her exceptional leadership and commitment to the region. Read More

LT’26 had an impactful October with three program days. Chair Kari Goetz, LT’18, Winzig Consulting is leading an awesome class! Thank you to our day chairs who help to plan the days. The class kicked off their first program day, Day of Belonging, with Terrie Daniel LT’20, Cardinal Consulting,. Thank you to LTA members, Jeff Chernoff, LT’16 IAT and Kara Guagliardo, LT’24 JC Newman for amazing experience on  Arts and Culture Day. The month closed out with Samantha Fiske, LT’23, TBBJ and Jay Taylor, LT’23, Leverage day chairing, Media Day.

LT’26 was scheduled to experience Military Day in November but when the shutdown made that impossible, the class chose not to cancel but instead to redirect their energy into service. Together, they spent the day volunteering at Feeding Tampa Bay, assembling more than 1,150 bags of food for distribution across the Feeding Tampa Bay network.

On October 24th the LTA Outreach committee worked closely with the events team at ZooTampa to conceive and produce an outreach experience at the zoo.  Over 20 attendees were able to learn about the zoo’s approach to both animal care and conservation.  The day began with a behind the scenes tour of the Veterinary Hospital with Senior VP, Chief Conservation and Animal Health Officer, Dr. Meredith Persky.  The veterinary team at the zoo is responsible for all medical care for all animal species.  The attendees commented how, in a world of “specialization”, this team needed to be aware of all aspects of animal health and be able to provide care for everything from a local duck species to a full-grown tiger. 

The next stop was a visit to the ZooTampa meal preparation hub, the kitchen.  Attendees discovered that the quality of food provided to keep the animals healthy is the same quality (and sometimes higher quality) than food consumed by human beings.  The dietary team tracks every meal consumed by every animal.  This allows the feeding specialists to work closely with the veterinary team to provide a holistic approach to overall animal health and well-being. 

The group then boarded one of the Zoo’s new trams to experience “Expedition Wild Africa”.  This ride provides unique views of many animals in the Zoo’s care.  It also exposes guests to the Species Survival Program and ZooTampa’s conservation partners around the world.  Continuing with the message of conservation, the team then met with Sandra Morrison (Director of Communications) and Mary Ellsworth (Assistant Registrar), the Co-Chairs or ZooTampa’s Green Team,  They shared many of the Zoo’s internal sustainability efforts.  The action-packed afternoon ended with a networking opportunity at The Watering Hole which included visits from 2 of the ZooTampa ambassador animals, an armadillo and a ball python.  Overall, the participants got a look behind the scenes at the amazing staff, state of the art facilities and the animal residents of a true Tampa gem, ZooTampa.

Leadership Tampa Alumni gathered for an exclusive insider look at the momentum propelling one of our region’s greatest economic drivers — the University of South Florida. Hosted by LTA Chair Grace Maseda-Sainz, this year’s Chair’s Choice event featured two dynamic leaders shaping USF’s next era of innovation and growth: USF President Rhea Law and Senior Vice President of Advancement & Alumni Affairs and USF Foundation CEO Jay Stroman. Thank you to our sponsor USF for hosting this event!

LTA Members, and their guests came together in festive cocktail attire to celebrate the season with good cheer, great company, and plenty of holiday spirit at the LTA Holiday Party, at Tampa Yacht Country Club, co-presented by St. Joseph’s Hospital and KCI. The energy in the room was a testament to the enduring relationships built through our leadership programs, and we're grateful to celebrate another successful year with this exceptional group of Tampa Bay's finest leaders!

Tampa Bay Business Accelerator Cohorts ’25, ’26, and TBBA Alumni participated in a combined session bringing together local lenders and small business owners for open dialogue and relationship building. Guided by mental health professional, Dr. Andrea Gleim, Clinical Director with Mindfully Mine Counseling Center, LLC, participants explored how trust, transparency, and authentic communication can strengthen the business–lender relationship. We’re grateful to everyone who joined and contributed to the conversation that will continue to shape our local business ecosystem.

Hosted by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), the Economic Opportunity Leadership Visit to Tulsa, Oklahoma was designed exclusively for chamber professionals committed to advancing economic opportunity in their regions. Representing the Tampa Bay Chamber, Avril Stinson and Dr. Meaza Stewart-Morrison explored how Tulsa is tackling economic growth and prosperity challenges, from workforce development to small business growth.

The Tampa Bay Chamber proudly celebrated the Tampa Bay Business Accelerator’s (TBBA) graduating class during the 2025 Achievement Reception. For the past two years, this cohort of entrepreneurs strengthened their companies and expanded their networks while contributing to the economic vitality of the region. These businesses reflect the heart of Tampa Bay’s small-business community, and their collective impact showcases the power of collaboration.  Since the inception of TBBA through Q1 2025, participating companies have generated more than $105 million in gross sales and created more than 905 new jobs. This year, the Chamber celebrated two ribbon cuttings from Cohort ’25—milestones that symbolize both growth and community investment. Read More

Tampa Bay Business Accelerator’s Cohort ’27 was officially announced at the Tampa Bay Chamber’s Annual meeting. The following high-growth companies will begin their 2-year journey through the program.

ARE Global Solutions
Baley's Family Enterprises
CS West & Associates
Faith Christian Academy of Plant City
Girl’s Inc of Tampa Bay
J.E.I. Integrity Plumbing
S&L Building Solutions
Star Nsurance + Tax
T-Fat's Auto Spa
Tampa Counseling Place
The Makar Law Firm
TheraVolve Wellness
True Value America

Edward Reyes, Founder and Managing Attorney of The Reyes Firm, will serve as the Tampa Bay Business Accelerator Alumni Chair for next year. In 2024, Reyes graduated from the Tampa Bay Business Accelerator program. 

Hosted by Cohort ’26 participant Blind Tiger Coffee Roasters, the Tampa Bay Business Accelerator Holiday Party brough together TBBA current cohort participants, TBBA Alumni, and TBBA volunteers for an evening of connecting reflecting and celebrating the accomplishments of the program this year.

Session 4 of the Access Tampa Bay programming focused on “How to Do Business” in partnership with the City of Tampa and Hillsborough County’s SBDC where participants learned how to enroll in these programs, access available resources, and identify local business opportunities. The session featured dynamic presentations from City of Tampa experts including Bertha Mitchell, Manager of Minority Business Development (Neighborhood & Community Affairs); Tim Spearman, Small Business Navigator; and DeAnna Faggart, Purchasing Director. Representatives from Hillsborough County’s SBDC also presented, including Shawn Ferguson, Consultant at the Entrepreneur Collaborative Center, and Diana Walker, Special Projects Coordinator with SBE.

Women's Programming

The Tampa Bay Chamber's Pearls of Wisdom: Turning the Key on Workforce Housing event, presented by Greenberg Traurig, brought together housing experts and business leaders to address one of our region's most pressing challenges: workforce housing accessibility. Attendees heard from Sylvia Alvarez of Housing and Education Alliance, Inc., Brandi Gabbard of Suncoast Realty Solutions, and Layla Hayavi of Tampa Housing Authority, moderated by Claire Gallo of Hancock Whitney, as they shared innovative strategies and real-world solutions for expanding housing access across income levels. The discussion emphasized the critical link between affordable housing, job growth, and business sustainability, equipping participants with actionable insights to support their workforce. Thank you to our speakers and attendees for contributing to this important conversation about ensuring Tampa Bay remains a place where our talented workforce can afford to live and thrive.

Know an exceptional woman leader making a difference in Tampa Bay? Nominate her for the prestigious Dottie Berger MacKinnon Woman of Influence Award!  

This annual honor recognizes a Tampa Bay Chamber member whose leadership, community impact, and dedication inspire us all. If she exemplifies outstanding character, vision, and commitment to empowering others, we want to hear her story.

This award will be presented at the 20th Annual Women of Influence Luncheon on March 27, 2026.

Nomination Deadline: February 13, 2026

Nominate Now

Genesis of Tampa (McMAG LLC) recently celebrated their new dealership located at 801 East Bearss Avenue, marking an exciting addition to our region’s growing business community.

Miller Electric celebrated the Grand Opening of their new Tampa headquarters. Their new larger space is a celebration of their growth in the Tampa Bay market that includes an in-house training facility and plenty of room to grow. 

J.C. Healthcare & Associates celebrated 6 years in business. As a Direct Primary Care office, they are dedicated to providing healthcare services for individuals and families without health insurance at affordable costs. 

TomCo Solutions Inc. celebrated the Grand Opening of TomCo Solutions full video and podcast production studio and office in Downtown Tampa. 

Floridacentral Credit Union celebrated their one-year anniversary as a Tampa Bay Chamber member!

A & A's Complete Janitorial, Inc. celebrated their new facility!  A & A is also a participant in the Chamber's Tampa Bay Business Accelerator Program! 

Fisher Phillips celebrated the opening of their new office.

Tampa General Hospital and InnovAGE PACE celebrated a powerful new partnership that expands access to comprehensive, all-inclusive care, empowering seniors to live independently at home while staying healthy, active, and connected to their community.

TomCo Solutions Inc. celebrated the grand opening of their full video and podcast production studio and office in Downtown Tampa. 

Ben & Jerry's celebrated their one-year anniversary as a Tampa Bay Chamber member!

Good Food | Events + Catering celebrated their one-year anniversary as a Tampa Bay Chamber member!

Member Benefits, Committees & Community Outreach 

Member Orientation

New Chamber members joined us in October and December for Member Orientation presented by Dale Carnegie where they had the opportunity to learn about the valuable benefits and resources available through the Chamber, helping them maximize their membership and connect with our thriving business community.

Return on Relationships

Clint Babcock from Sandler Training led an outstanding "Return on Relationships" session where our members learned practical strategies for pre-call planning, consultative selling techniques, and how to establish equal business stature with prospects—turning networking efforts into meaningful business opportunities.

Get Connected

Tampa Bay business leaders came prepared with their pitches and left with new partnerships and connections that demonstrate the strength of our business community at our October and December Get Connected events.

Competitive Edge

The Tampa Bay Chamber's Competitive Edge: Ignite 2026 workshop, presented by HOCS Consulting, brought together local business leaders for an afternoon focused on smart planning and getting things done with speaker Eric Papp, Founder of Agape Leadership, LLC. Papp shared practical strategies like using weekly planning sheets, focusing on the 80/20 rule, and understanding tradeoffs to help leaders stay focused on what really matters. Saverio Caruso, a real estate advisor with Holmes Brothers LLC, said his biggest takeaway was to write down his wins more often to stay motivated, noting that Papp's approach was all about "focusing on the positives" instead of dwelling on negatives. Attendees left with clear action steps to work smarter, prevent burnout, and get better results in 2026.

Coffee Connection

Members enjoyed meaningful face-to-face networking with fellow business professionals while our Chamber Ambassadors shared insider tips on maximizing Chamber membership benefits. We're grateful for the energy and engagement from all who attended this fantastic morning of connection and community building!

Circle of Influence

We were honored to welcome Robyn Ostrem, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay as our featured Circle of Influence Speaker. Robyn’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and compassion. From her early career in Illinois to her leadership roles in the YMCA and now BBBS, her path has been guided by a deep dedication to helping others grow. Circle of Influence, presented by USAA, is an exclusive event series for our Enterprise, Investor, and Partner-level members, held three times a year to provide direct connection with Tampa Bay’s most influential leaders. Read More

45th Annual Small Business of the Year Awards

More than 400 guests joined us to honor the incredible entrepreneurs and leaders who make Tampa Bay thrive at the 45th Annual Small Business of the Year Awards, presented by TD Bank. This year's winners were selected from approximately 350 nominations through a rigorous 10-month evaluation process, with over a dozen Chamber member volunteers serving as judges.

Congratulations to our 2025 Winners:
Startup Business of the Year: Harbour Business Law
Small Business of the Year (5-20 Employees): Digital Neighbor
Small Business of the Year (21-50 Employees): Yo Mama's Foods
Small Business of the Year (51-250 Employees): Gigglewaters
Outstanding Small Business Leader of the Year: Amy Martinez-Monfort of Tampa Laundry Company

Community Outreach

With two community outreach events in November, Chamber members along with donor moms, and organ recipients worked side by side to create holiday boxes for the Tax Collector’s offices. Over 1,900 boxes will be distributed throughout the holidays as a thank you for the work they do all year long in promoting organ/tissue donations. LifeLink Foundation, Inc., headquartered in Tampa, honors the legacies of organ, eye, and tissue donors and fulfills the life-saving dreams of patients waiting for transplants.

Later that month Chamber members came together for a meaningful morning helping Gulf Coast JFCS bring their new Resource Room to life through packing, stocking shelves, and adding finishing touches for the clients they serve.

Chamber volunteers rolled up their sleeves to work alongside AMIkids Tampa for a beach cleanup and mentoring morning.  AMIkids is dedicated to empowering young people by providing educational opportunities and support to help them unlock their potential, transform their lives, and positively impact their community. Serving boys ages 11–17 their committed team offers care, guidance, and the essential skills needed to overcome challenges and build a future of success and fulfillment. 

Annual Meeting

The Tampa Bay Chamber marked a historic milestone, celebrating 140 years of championing business excellence and community growth at our Annual Meeting, presented by TECO . The celebration opened with high energy as the George S. Middleton High School Tiger Marching Machine delivered a spectacular performance, followed by a moving rendition of the National Anthem by talented young voices from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay.

Throughout the event, we reflected on an outstanding year, recognizing the remarkable accomplishments, successes, and generosity demonstrated by our members. The pinnacle was the presentation of our most prestigious honor, the 2025 H.L. Culbreath Jr. Profile in Leadership Award, to University of South Florida President Emerita Dr. Judy Genshaft. Dr. Genshaft's transformative leadership has left an indelible mark on USF and our entire region, making her a truly deserving recipient of this award. Read More

We also proudly presented the annual recap video, produced by Mad Bear Productions, highlighting the 140 years of growth and success of the Tampa Bay Chamber, the region's business community, and the people and programs fueling our economy.

Watch Now

Tampa Bay Chamber Events

Event Registrations

Congratulations to Dotti Groover-Skipper, our 2025 Dottie Berger MacKinnon Woman of Influence Award recipient, for her induction into the Florida Women's Hall of Fame. Out of fifty nominations, Dotti Groover-Skipper, Founder and CEO of HeartDance Foundation, was one of three trail-blazing women selected by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for the 2024 induction.  Watch Now

The October Third Thursday by Fifth Third Bank featured Taisha Edwin-Williams and Dr. Meaza Stewart-Morrison as they shared why leadership programs matter for black and brown professionals, emphasizing the importance of connection and growth.

Nzinga Barnette, Director, Advocacy graduated from the Business Leads Fellows program. Hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Business Leads equips chambers of commerce, economic development agencies, and statewide trade associations with the resources necessary to implement change in the education and workforce pipeline.

Avril Stinson, Vice President, Economic Inclusion and Leadership Development, marked six years with the Chamber.

Sam Zang, Marketing Manager, marked three years with the Chamber.

Cassidy Wilson, Marketing Manager, joined the Tampa Bay Chamber team.

Competitive Edge Series:

Presenting Sponsor $6,000 | Events in February, April, September, and November 2026

LTA Spring Social / LT ’27 Recruitment Event:

Co-Presenting Sponsor $3,000, alongside Busch Gardens | March 2026

LTA Back on the Bus:

Co-Presenting Sponsor $3,000 each | April 2026

LT ’26 Graduation:

Co-Presenting Sponsor $3,000, alongside Vistage Florida | May 2026

All Sponsorship Opportunities

Contact Anna del Castillo