Catalyst
Policy & Advocacy
2026 Legislative Kickoff
On Tuesday, January 6, nearly 200 Chamber members and business leaders attended the 2026 Legislative Kickoff. Participating legislators included Representatives Berny Jacques (District 59), Lindsay Cross (District 60), Dianne Hart (District 63), Susan L. Valdés (District 64), Karen Gonzalez Pittman (District 65), and Fentrice Driskell (District 67), each of whom shared their priorities for the legislative session.
During the event, the Chamber also unveiled its 2026 Legislative Agenda, streamlined to focus on 10 key issues anchored by 8 guiding principles. The Chamber extends its appreciation to the event’s Presenting Sponsor St. Joseph’s Hospital and Gold Sponsor Suncoast Tampa Association of REALTORS® for their support and commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue between the business community and elected officials.
Policy Advisory Committee
On Thursday, January 8, the Policy Advisory Committee held its first meeting of the year. The 2026 Committee leadership was introduced, and members received an overview of the committee’s strategic plan and priorities for the year. Matt Blair, Managing Partner at Corcoran Partners, provided an update ahead of the legislative session, which began on January 13. The Policy Advisory Committee met in February and discussed the impacts of proposed property tax reforms. Guest speakers included Bob Henriquez, CFA, Hillsborough County Property Appraiser, Nereia Cormier Wilson, MBA, CFE, Assistant Chief Deputy, and John Alessi, Director of Finance.
Catalyst Trip
In January, Tampa Bay Chamber members traveled to Tallahassee for our annual Catalyst Trip, bringing the voice of our regional business community directly to state leaders. Following the trip, Policy Council co-chairs Jeff Chernoff and Melanie Brown attended the meeting and provided an update on the Florida legislative session.Through conversations focused on workforce, infrastructure, and economic competitiveness, members had the opportunity to engage on the issues shaping Tampa Bay’s future.
Following the trip, Policy Council co-chairs Jeff Chernoff and Melanie Brown attended a Policy Council meeting and provided an update on the Florida legislative session.
Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Tampa General Hospital, for helping make this impactful experience possible!
Workforce Development Committee
The Workforce Development Committee held a meeting on accessibility and disabilities in education, employment and the workforce. Dr. Jeff Skowronek, Executive Director of Pepin Academies and Janele Kilbey, Director of Transition, presented on their special education schools which offer comprehensive programs tailored to students with learning disabilities in Tampa, Riverview and New Port Richey. Jacque Madison, Director of Accessibility, Governance and Strategy, Accenture and Brad deBeaubien, Partner – Labor & Employment, Shumaker also joined the discussion to share the employer perspective. They discussed the importance of inclusive hiring practices, workplace accessibility, and how businesses can better support individuals with disabilities as they enter and grow within the workforce.
Tampa Bay Leaders Voice Support for Keeping the Rays in the Region
The Tampa Bay Chamber recently hosted Ken Babby, Chief Executive Officer of the Tampa Bay Rays, to discuss the Rays’ future plans in the Tampa Bay area.
As representatives of the Tampa Bay business community, we support efforts to keep the Tampa Bay Rays in our region and are encouraged by the constructive, forward-looking conversations taking place between team ownership and local government partners. Read the Tampa Bay Chamber’s official statement of support linked here.
Operation Partnership: Tampa Bay @ Sunset
We had a wonderful evening aboard the American Victory Ship & Museum.
This unique networking event brought together transitioning service members, military spouses, and Tampa Bay Chamber members for an unforgettable night of connection, conversation, and exploration—complete with light refreshments and access to the entire ship!
Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, USAA
Work Redefined: Lifting the Voices of Early Childcare Providers
In March, the Chamber hosted Work Redefined: Lifting the Voices of Early Childcare Providers, in partnership with the Hillsborough County Commission on the Status of Women.
The event brought together childcare professionals, community leaders, and advocates for an important conversation on the challenges facing the early childcare workforce and the vital role these providers play in supporting families and strengthening our local economy. Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, MUFG Bank, and our gold sponsors Hillsborough College and Shumaker.
Benchmarking Phoenix
Benchmarking Phoenix is now open to the full Chamber membership.
Inclusive Organization
Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend an information session on the application process.
Info Session Registration (Related Events)
Leadership Tampa Alumni Annual Meeting
In January our LTA Annual Meeting brought members together for one of the year’s most anticipated events, offering time to reconnect with cohort classmates over lunch at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay. The gathering also included exciting announcements, such as the LTA Class of the Year and the Parke Wright III Leadership Award recipient, Yvette Segura.
Thanks to our sponsors Baker Barrios and CI Group.
LT'26 Tallahassee Retreat
The LT’26 Tallahassee Retreat was an impactful and inspiring experience for our class members. During the trip, participants had the opportunity to tour the Supreme Court of Florida, the Florida State Capitol, and the Florida Senate, gaining firsthand insight into how state government operates.
One of the most valuable aspects of the retreat was the opportunity to sit in live legislative sessions. Class members observed discussions and decision-making processes involving representatives connected to Pinellas and Hillsborough counties, deepening their understanding of how local issues are addressed at the state level.
Participants also engaged in meaningful conversations about advocacy and learned how to effectively support chamber initiatives. The experience strengthened their awareness of the legislative process and highlighted the importance of business advocacy, civic engagement, and collaborative leadership.
Overall, the retreat provided a powerful behind-the-scenes look at state government in action and reinforced the critical role that informed, engaged leaders play in shaping policy and supporting their communities.
Thank you to Moffitt Cancer Center and AdventHealth for sponsoring!
Leadership Tampa Alumni Outreach
Leadership Tampa Alumni Outreach
LTA members recently gathered with Girl Scouts of West Central Florida for an inspiring outreach event where members learned more about the lasting impact Girl Scouts make across our region. From building financial literacy and leadership skills through the Cookie Program to empowering girls to lead their communities, the event was a great reminder of the power of investing in the next generation.
After hearing from the Girl Scouts team, members rolled up their sleeves and assembled cookie treat bags together, contributing to upcoming community events and celebrating women leaders in our region. It was an afternoon of connection, service, and learning.
Thank you, Girl Scouts of West Central Florida for hosting!
Emerging Leaders Engage Series
The first Engage Series of the year brought members together at Union New American, a concept of Next Level Brands Tampa. The event offered a relaxed, high-energy environment for members to connect, build relationships, and learn more about a dynamic local business while strengthening the sense of community within ELTB.
Emerging Leaders Mentor-Protégé Program Kickoff
February marked the official kickoff of the 2026 Mentor-Protégé Program, hosted at Sky Center One. Mentors and Protégés came together for the first time to meet, connect, and set the tone for the year ahead. With 81 Protégés participating, the program is off to a strong start and continues to be one of Emerging Leaders’ most impactful leadership development experiences. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Tampa Bay Food Trucks
First-Ever Emerging Leaders General Committee Meeting
February also marks the launch of the first Emerging Leaders General Committee Meeting. Members gathered to learn more about opportunities within the Chamber, ways to give back to the community, and to share feedback on what they want Emerging Leaders to look like in the years ahead. This new format reinforces transparency, inclusivity, and member-driven growth.
Collegiate Leadership - Class Program Day: Healthcare and Mental Health
Last month, the Collegiate Leadership class of 2026 participated in their fourth program day centered on Healthcare and Mental Health. They visited USF Health CAMLS, St. Joseph's Hospital, and were among the first to receive a behind-the-scenes tour of the Mariposa Women's Behavioral Health Hospital, which is set to open in June.
Collegiate Leadership - Class Program Day: Military
The Collegiate Leadership class of 2026 spent their fifth program day exploring the vital role of military and first responders in Tampa Bay. Students heard from leaders at MacDill Air Force Base, shared breakfast with service members, toured the Tampa Emergency Operations Center, and visited the Tampa Fire & Police Training Center.
TBBA 2027 Kickoff Reception
Our TBBA 2027 Kickoff Reception was filled with connection, community, and so much positive momentum as we officially welcomed this incredible group of entrepreneurs into the Accelerator family. It was inspiring to see Chamber leaders, alumni, mentors, partners, and supporters come together to uplift these businesses and surround them with encouragement from day one. Thank you to sponsors Versa Tile & Marble, Inc. and Method 1.
We’re proud to celebrate Cohort ’27 and the amazing companies joining the Accelerator family this year:
- 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
TBBA Cohort '26 Session
TBBA business owners launched this next chapter with their first education session, The Human Balance Sheet™, led by keynote speaker Kadian Douglas, Founder of the Kadian Performance Institute.
Participants explored how leadership, energy, and execution directly impact business results, gaining practical tools to avoid becoming the bottleneck, sustain performance under pressure, and build healthier teams for long-term growth.
An energizing start to Year 2—we’re excited for what’s ahead!
TBBA Cohort '27 Session
“Get a Grip on Your Business,” led by EOS Implementer Jeff Jackson from EOS Worldwide, provided TBBA Cohort ’27 entrepreneurs with clarity, structure, and practical tools that actually stick.
Entrepreneurs rolled up their sleeves and dug deep into core values: right people, right seats, organizational structure, and vision & traction. Cohort ’27 left with practical tools they can implement immediately, tools that strengthen culture, clarify expectations, and build businesses that are sustainable long-term.
Access Tampa Bay
Our Access Tampa Bay 2025 Cohort finished their 5th and final session on February 4. Don Kiceina Jr., CEO, Evolving Key Coaching & Consulting and Alexis Quintal, Owner & CEO, Rosarium, gave presentations highlighting tangible efforts to scale their businesses by marketing with a targeted audience. The second half of the program ended with a What’s Next? for the cohort. Rosanne Versaggi, Sr. Director of Membership and Dr. Meaza Morrison, Director, Economic Inclusion, invited the cohort to continue their partnership with a renewed Tampa Bay Chamber membership. Each participant was given the opportunity to give a few words on how this program enhanced their business acumen.
QUOTES FROM 2025 ATB COHORT:
“As a first-generation college graduate raised by hardworking parents, I built my practice from the ground up with no roadmap. ATB and my Chamber membership changed that. I went from solo provider to CEO, grew a team, and increased revenue. The mentors, friendships, and access to resources and funding opportunities gave me a support system I never had before. ATB doesn't just grow businesses, it gives entrepreneurs like me the foundation to sustain them, and I am eternally grateful!” – Vanessa Alcala, Owner & Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist, TheraVolve Wellness Co.
“Being a part of ATB and surrounded by the incredible businesses has been extremely beneficial to me as a first-time business owner. Not only did I grow professionally because of the many insightful sessions offered, but the connections made with others who have taken the path we are currently on and found success. I can’t wait to continue my growth in the chamber so I can in turn use the success gained to mentor and uplift future professionals for greatness within business.” – Farris Roach III, President VODA Cleaning and Restoration E. Tampa
ATB Fifth and Final Session
The fifth and final session of Access Tampa Bay series, focused on branding and marketing for small and minority-owned businesses. The session concluded with a “What’s Next?” overview featuring the Tampa Bay Chamber Membership Team and Dr. Meaza Morrison, Director of Economic Inclusion.
This session hosted speakers, Alexis Quintal, Owner & CEO of Rosarium PR & Marketing Collective and Don Kiceina, Jr. CEO of DKJr. Consulting, LLC.
Alexis Quintal founded Rosarium in 2020, a company that makes world-class marketing communications solutions accessible and affordable for businesses of all sizes.
As a small business owner, Don Kiceina presented his own experience and shared the challenges and opportunities of promoting your business in today's highly competitive market.
Each speaker focused on actionable steps you can take now to elevate your voice, brand, and social presence, along with guidance on navigating your journey effectively in today’s landscape.
Impact Statement from 2025 Cohort:
“Access Tampa Bay has really strengthened how I approach and grow my own business. The S.E.R.V.I.C.E. and G.R.O.W.T.H. framework particularly resonated with me because it brings leadership, structure and long-term vision together in a way that's practical and actionable. It also reinforced the importance of aligning goals, resources and operations from the get-go which are principles we apply every day at True Value America as we continue to build responsibly while investing in our community.
Just as important were the relationships built through the Chamber. Being in a room with other leaders who are committed to service and real economic impact reminds you that sustainable prosperity in Tampa Bay is built on integrity, collaboration and long-term commitment.” – Chris Cunningham, TrueValue America
ATB
ATB Welcomes the 2026 cohort!
We are proud to congratulate and welcome the outstanding businesses selected for our 2026 Access Tampa Bay cohort! This dynamic group of entrepreneurs represents innovation, growth, and the vibrant spirit of our Tampa Bay business community.
- Bayprint Marketing
- La Amalia 1888
- MC Aesthetics
- Royal Events and Services
- Revive Therapy & Wellness LLC
- Kari's Cold Treats
- Craving Donuts
- That's Crazy
- Strategist Project Support Services
- Making A Statement, LLC
We are also excited to share that Karl Davis of Karl A. Davis Coaching Services will be serving as Chair for this year’s cohort. His leadership, expertise, and commitment to small business development will help guide and empower these entrepreneurs throughout their journey.
Hub For Business
Pearls of Experience: Wellness, Values, and Professional Presence
We recently gathered for an inspiring evening focused on inner alignment, wellness, and professional presence as part of our two-part professional development series on personal branding. Participants explored ways to strengthen confidence, resilience, and authenticity through guided conversations on values-led leadership, mindfulness practices, and wellness strategies that support both personal well-being and professional impact.
A special thank you to our presenting sponsor, Floridacentral Credit Union, and our venue sponsor, Salon Halo, for helping create such a meaningful experience. We’re also grateful to Change by Challenge, Hydralive Therapy, and YogaSix for contributing activities that made the evening both restorative and empowering!
Women of Influence Luncheon
Presented by Tampa General Hospital, the 20th Annual Women of Influence Luncheon brought together leaders from across the region for an inspiring afternoon celebrating women’s impact in Tampa Bay.
The program featured keynote speaker Judy Smith—Founder and CEO of Smith & Company and the real-life inspiration behind the TV show Scandal—who shared powerful insights on leadership, communication, and navigating high-stakes moments.
The event also included the highly anticipated announcement of this year’s Dottie Berger MacKinnon Woman of Influence Award recipient, honoring the legacy and continued influence of women shaping our community. Thank you to TGH and all of our event sponsors.
SBOY
Nominations Period
Thank you to our sponsor TD Bank, we held open nominations for Small Business of the Year Awards. We can't wait until SBOY 2026!
Hub Events
After 5
WEDU PBS hosted the Chamber’s After 5, where top-tier members enjoyed an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the studio and a unique look at how a local news station operates. The evening was filled with high-energy networking and meaningful connections, while also highlighting the incredible work WEDU PBS does to inform and serve our Tampa Bay community.
Thanks to Coca Cola Beverages - Florida and Florida Fresh Vending & Markets for sponsoring this event!
Competitive Edge
Competitive Edge Series session focused on Podcasting for Business!
Attendees heard valuable insights from Gerardo Cierra with WSUN El Nuevo Zol 97.1 and Michael Silver with Shutts & Bowen LLP, who shared practical advice on how businesses can use podcasting to connect with their audiences and strengthen their brand.
Special thanks to Tommy Whitehead and the teams at TomCo Solutions and Building Success Productions for hosting this interactive session.
Circle of Influence
Circle of Influence brought together leaders from across Tampa Bay for a thoughtful conversation on education, innovation, and the future of our workforce.
We were honored to welcome Dr. Jim Burkee, President of Saint Leo University, who shared insights on preparing students and emerging professionals to thrive in an increasingly digital and ever-evolving world.
Thank you to our sponsor USAA. 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.
Networking 101
Clint Babcock led this robust Chamber session focused on developing effective sales professionals by emphasizing the importance of mindset, behavior, and authentic relationship-building over traditional selling techniques.
Attendees were invited back to Part 2 (held in April) of this two-part business development series focused on building relationships and strategic sales strategies.
Coffee Connection
We had a full house for Coffee Connection, one of our favorite opportunities for members to start the day with meaningful conversation and fresh perspectives!
Led by our incredible Chamber Ambassadors, this event features small-group roundtable discussions focused on today’s most relevant business topics. This interactive format brings together professionals from a variety of industries and company sizes to share perspectives, discuss challenges, and explore practical strategies for navigating today’s evolving business environment.
Power 100 List
The Tampa Bay Business Journal recently unveiled its 2026 Power 100 list, spotlighting the leaders whose decisions and influence continue to shape the future of the Tampa Bay business community.
We are proud to share that more than 60 individuals on this year’s list are members of the Tampa Bay Chamber or represent organizations that are Chamber members—a testament to the strong leadership and impact of our business community. See a list of the Chamber members here.
Ribbon Cuttings
Congratulations to our members that celebrated Ribbon Cuttings.
Chloe Coney Urban Enterprise Center Mural
CLA is an accounting firm that by believes getting to know you well, they'll be in a better position to help you.
The Residences at 801 East Whiting Street offer stylish studio and one-bedroom apartments designed for modern living.
Phoenix House. Phoenix House Florida continues to admit new patients and will continue to remain open while providing the highest quality care.
The Omnia Group. Through our simple, yet sophisticated behavioral assessment, Omnia empowers HR and business leaders to continuously grow, develop and inspire their workforce.
Tampa Bay History Center. The History Center is one of Tampa Bay's premier cultural venues and an anchor of the Tampa Riverwalk on Water Street.
CLEMCO.AV’s Life Projection Podcasting & Virtual Presentation Studio is a dynamic space designed to support presenters and creators as they prepare for both in-person and virtual stages. From conference design to video production and AI-enhanced presentations, the studio empowers individuals to craft compelling experiences and share their stories with confidence.
Hyatt Place Tampa Airport/Westshore
Hyatt Place Tampa Airport/Westshore celebrated their Grand Reopening with a Gasparilla themed ribbon cutting ceremony! Guests enjoyed refreshments, guided hotel tours, and a festive scavenger hunt. The entire hotel has been renovated, including all guest rooms and common areas.
Hydralive Therapy Tampa has officially opened its doors and is building a community centered around recovery, performance, and whole-body wellness. Their services include IV therapy, cryotherapy, vitamin boosts, and more!
Turnwell Mental Health Network of Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay Psychiatry has rebranded to Turnwell of Tampa Bay and moved into a new office! Guests enjoyed touring the new space and learning more about the range of services offered.
The William Stanley Group celebrated the Grand Opening of their new South Tampa office! This dynamic, women-owned strategic tax and executive advisory firm is also a proud 2024 Small Business of the Year Award winner! We’re excited to see their continued growth and impact in our region.
HCA Florida South Tampa Hospital (HCA Florida North Dale Mabry Emergency)
HCA Florida North Dale Mabry Emergency is a new freestanding emergency department extending the services of HCA Florida South Tampa Hospital and part of the statewide HCA Florida Healthcare network. Open 24/7, the facility provides full-service emergency care for conditions with private treatment rooms, pediatric care areas, and on-site imaging and laboratory services.
Bridge Restaurant Group celebrated the grand opening of their newest Wingstop location at W. Hillsborough Ave and N. Himes Ave—marking another milestone as they continue to grow their presence across Florida with 18 locations! Guests enjoyed music, free samples, and a vibrant celebration of community, reflecting the group’s commitment to creating opportunities and building pathways for growth through their partnership with Wingstop.
River Oaks Treatment Center celebrated the launch of their residential mental health program, which provides expert care and evidence-based treatment for a range of common mental health disorders. Guests enjoyed learning more about the program and hearing directly from the team, as they toured the River Oaks facility!
Organizational Excellence
2026 Board Orientation
In January, we held our first Board Meeting and Orientation of the year! It was a great opportunity to regroup, hear updates from our leadership team, and introduce Chamber staff to our Board of Directors as we begin another impactful year together.
Leading Forward Forum
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2nd Annual Leading Forward Forum last month! Our members gained invaluable strategic insights from Clint Babcock (Sandler Training), Rick Gallegos, Jeff Shimer, and Mark Whitwer (Dale Carnegie Tampa Bay), and featured speaker Sheree Anne Kelly (Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives) on navigating today's unpredictable business environment and leading their organizations toward greater success. We're grateful to our program sponsor, Transportation Control Systems, and venue sponsor, Hillsborough College, for making this exclusive member event possible. The energy, engagement, and collaborative spirit in the room reinforced why Tampa Bay's business community continues to thrive!
Board Assistants' Luncheon
We recently hosted our annual Board Assistants’ Luncheon, bringing together the executive assistants and administrative professionals who support our Board of Directors. The luncheon provided an opportunity to share more about the Chamber’s purpose, structure, upcoming events, and how to navigate resources such as the Chamber website. Because these professionals often assist with registering board members for events and coordinating their engagement with the Chamber, the session helps ensure they have the information they need ssto support their executives effectively. The event also served as a way to recognize and thank these behind-the-scenes professionals whose organization, attention to detail, and partnership help keep both their offices and the Chamber running smoothly.
Staff Members Anniversaries
Congratulations to staff members who celebrated anniversaries with the Tampa Bay Chamber!
• Michelle Ciudad Real, Vice President of Advocacy, celebrated 8 years.
• Max Kunkel, Leadership Programs Manager, on reaching two years with the Chamber!
• Katie Lopez, Vice President, Advocacy, celebrated 8 years.
• Rosanne Versaggi, Sr. Director of Membership, celebrated 13 years.
Featured Sponsorship Opportunities:
LTA Welcome Reception | June 25
Co-Presenting Sponsor (2) $3,000 each
Competitive Edge Series
Presenting Sponsor $4,500 | Events in April, September, and November 2026