In early May 2024, several Pinellas County businesses enjoyed a unique opportunity. As part of Special Operations Forces (SOF) Week, a delegation of Australian Defense companies toured St. Petersburg’s Maritime and Defense Technology HUB, meeting with companies to explore potential connections for trade and investment. Brent Barkway, Pinellas County Economic Development (PCED) Economic Development Manager, explains, “SOF Week draws over 20,000 attendees to the Tampa Bay area – we wanted to capitalize on that and connect with decision-makers who might not otherwise know about the benefits and opportunities for doing business here in Pinellas.”

Before disaster strikes, it’s important to know your risk, make a business continuity plan, and stay informed to protect your business. Disasters can take many forms and rebuilding after a disaster can be overwhelming. Having a plan, preparing for emergencies, and knowing what your company and employees need to recover and continue operations can help reduce financial impacts and help you reopen your business faster.

Applications Open July 16: Round 7 Funding for Pinellas County's Employment Sites Program

Pinellas County has committed over $90 million to assist in the construction and redevelopment of industrial (manufacturing & flex) and office buildings to facilitate a strong and robust local economy that provides growth opportunities for existing businesses and attracts new target industry employers. How can the program help your business? Visit our website to explore the details and benefits and stay tuned for Round 7 applications to open July 16.

SBDC Small Business Success Summit

This annual event from the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network features keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities that will provide participants with strategies and connections to improve their businesses. The Florida SBDC at PCED will be there - will you?!

Florida Early Stage Venture Conference: June 4 - 5 in Orlando

Featuring presentations from 40 selected early stage companies, as well as keynote speakers, educational sessions, and other networking opportunities, this year's event expects to bring together 500 attendees, 100 investors, and $2 billion in raised capital. Visit Florida Venture Forum's website for full details

Welcome Joan Goodrich!

Pinellas County Economic Development is delighted to announce the addition of Joan Goodrich to our team. Joan joins PCED in the role of Economic Development Manager in the Business Development Division, where she will work to grow and advance Pinellas County's Business &Financial Services, Information Technology, and Medical Technologies industry sectors

Please join us in welcoming Joan and visit our website to learn how she can help your business grow in our Ideal Business Climate!

Pinellas County Shines at FSBDC Regional Awards Luncheon 

Congratulations to our own Yolanda Goodloe, winner of the FSBDC Performance Excellence Award and also the People's Choice Award from the National APEX Accelerator, and Jenee Skipper, recognized with the Team Spirit of the Year award, at this year's Florida SBDC Network Regional Business Awards. Florida SBDC at USF partner Michael Carlisle was presented with the Resource Partner of the Year Award, and client Pat Mack, founder and CEO of PVM, Inc., was the recipient of FSBDC's Veteran Owned Business of the Year.

We are delighted to be recognized for our Office of Small Business & Supplier Diversity team's hard work and expertise, and are thrilled to see our client's success celebrated. Learn how our team can help your small business thrive by visiting our website.