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Hosted by The Helen Gordon Centre for Women
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As we move into May, we continue to build meaningful momentum across the Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre, and it is truly inspiring to see the growth, resilience, and innovation happening throughout our community.
This month reflects what we stand for—connection, access, and action.
May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, a timely reminder of the importance of prioritizing well-beingespecially as entrepreneurs and leaders navigating constant demands and uncertainty. Building a business requires resilience, but it also requires intentional care. Simple practices such as setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, staying connected to your support systems, and engaging in activities that help you reset whether that’s exercise, meditation, or time doing what you enjoy can make a meaningful difference in preventing burnout and sustaining long-term success.
From the continued success of our Startup Academy cohorts to the expansion of our Growth & Momentum Series, we remain focused on ensuring that entrepreneurs not only gain knowledge, but also have the tools, confidence, and support to execute. We are seeing firsthand how powerful it is when ideas are paired with structure—and when entrepreneurs are supported by a community committed to their success.
Our growing partnerships, including collaborations with Everglades University and Keiser University, reinforce the importance of meeting individuals where they are—whether they are exploring entrepreneurship for the first time or actively building and scaling their businesses. These partnerships allow us to listen, learn, and co-create programming that is aligned with real-world needs and future opportunities.
We are also excited about the opportunities ahead this month, including continued access to funding resources such as the Glazer Family Small Business Fund, and educational sessions focused on practical, actionable strategies from leveraging AI to refine your brand to aligning your marketing efforts with your business capacity.
In addition, we encourage you to take advantage of Verizon Digital Ready, which offers free digital learning opportunities ranging from quick 3-minute videos to more in-depth sessions up to two hours. These flexible resources allow you to learn at your own pace whether you have a few minutes or more time to invest. Sign up today and use as little or as many resources as you’d like to support your business growth.
As you continue to grow your business, I encourage you to think strategically about visibility, reach, and impact. Consider advertising in our Tampa Bay WBC Business Directory to expand your presence across our six-county region and connect with entrepreneurs, partners, and potential clients.
Additionally, have you considered hosting a webinar or workshop with our Centre? We are always looking for experts and entrepreneurs to share their knowledge and support our community. Or, let us know how we can support your organization collaboration is key, and we are committed to building meaningful partnerships that create lasting impact.
As always, I encourage you to stay engaged:
- Take advantage of our free webinars and training opportunities
- Explore and join our Business Directory to increase your visibility
- Share your wins so we can celebrate them together
At the Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre, we believe that when one business grows, it strengthens the entire community. Your progress, persistence, and success matter—not just individually, but collectively.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us.
Warm Regards,
Dr. Kimberly Rankin
Program Director, Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre
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GLAZER FAMILY SMALL BUSINESS FUND
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Glazer Family Announce Additional Investment into Glazer Family Small Business Fund
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Applications for the 2026 Glazer Family Small Business Fund are now open and will be accepted on a rolling basis. The next round of recipients will be announced in late June.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a registered business operating for at least 12 months
- Must not have previously received funding from the Glazer Family Small Business Fund
- Must demonstrate a need for strategic funding to recover from setbacks or address business challenges
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Startup Academy April Kick-Off Class
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The Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre Startup Academy is an 8-week co-hort program helping entrepreneurs with a solid foundation for your business from ideation through the completion of your business plan. Our trainings will take place via webinars with an in-person Kickoff Event in the beginning and a Pitch Night/Graduation at the end.
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VERIZON DIGITAL READY
FREE DIGITAL COURSES, COACHING & GRANTS
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FREE online courses, coaching, community, and incentives for entrepreneurs
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Register for your free training today!
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Partnership with Everglades University
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We had the pleasure of connecting in person with students and faculty at Everglades University as we launched the first of our monthly lab series, an exciting new collaboration focused on listening, learning, and building together.
Our time on campus was centered around understanding what students truly want and need as they explore entrepreneurship and career pathways. Through open dialogue, we gathered valuable insight into the topics they are most eager to learn more about ensuring our future sessions are shaped by their voices and aligned with real-world goals.
We also introduced the Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre’s signature programs, including our Start-Up Academy and Growth & Momentum Series, and explored how these resources can directly support Everglades University students as they move from ideas to execution.
Partnerships like this reflect the heart of our mission—creating access, fostering connection, and empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs. We are excited to continue these monthly labs and deepen our impact together.
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Keiser University Partnership Highlight
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We had a wonderful opportunity to connect and collaborate at Keiser University’s beautiful indoor campus, continuing our shared commitment to supporting our military-connected community and future entrepreneurs.
Partnerships like this are incredibly important. When we come together across education, workforce development, and community organizations, we create stronger, more accessible pathways for individuals who are building what’s next.
We are honored to be part of these meaningful conversations and grateful for the opportunity to continue expanding this work together.
A special thank you to Elease Phillips, Associate Director of Student Services, for the warm welcome and campus tour. We look forward to strengthening this partnership and the impact we can create together.
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What an impactful day of connection at Tampa Bay Tech Week, where we had the opportunity to hear from panelists sharing how they are leveraging technology and collaboration to drive growth, innovation, and stronger connections within their organizations.
Events like this highlight the importance of staying engaged with emerging trends and learning from leaders who are actively shaping the future of business. The insights shared reinforce how critical it is for entrepreneurs and organizations to embrace technology not just as a tool, but as a strategy for long-term success.
We look forward to continuing these conversations and bringing valuable insights back to our community.
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City of Tampa Partnership –
Entrepreneurship Funding
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We had a great meeting with the City of Tampa discussing entrepreneurship funding opportunities that will continue to support and strengthen small business growth across the Tampa Bay region.
Collaborations like this are essential to expanding access to capital and ensuring that entrepreneurs at every stage have the resources they need to start, grow, and scale their businesses. It’s encouraging to see continued investment and focus on building a thriving, inclusive business ecosystem.
We look forward to continuing this work together and helping connect our community to these valuable opportunities.
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TBWBC in the Community:
Entrepreneur Fair at the ECC
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The Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre was proud to participate in the Entrepreneur Fair at the Entrepreneur Collaborative Center (ECC) on Friday, May 1st, connecting with aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community partners from across the Tampa Bay region.
Throughout the event, our team had the opportunity to share information about the no-cost business coaching, training programs, access-to-capital resources, and growth opportunities available through the Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre. More importantly, we had meaningful conversations with individuals ready to launch, grow, and scale their businesses.
Events like this showcase the power of collaboration, innovation, and community—and reinforce why building strong entrepreneurial ecosystems matters.
A special thank you to the ECC and all participating organizations for bringing together such an inspiring group of entrepreneurs and resource partners.
At TBWBC, we remain committed to helping women entrepreneurs launch, grow, and scale successful businesses across our six-county service area.
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A Sizzling Celebration of Flavor, Rhythm & Fun Benefiting The Centre for Women
Step into Havana Nights at Tampa Bay’s most anticipated foodie event of the year!
Join us for the 34th Annual Gourmet Feastival – Havana Nights, where bold flavors, vibrant culture, and unforgettable entertainment come together for one incredible evening.
Proceeds from Gourmet Feastival support The Centre for Women, empowering women and families in the Tampa Bay community through education, career services, counseling, and life-changing programs.
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We love celebrating the wins in our community! Our Tell Me Something Good section highlights the incredible achievements of our entrepreneurs—from business milestones and new launches to awards, certifications, and major accomplishments.
Have something worth celebrating? We want to hear it! Whether you’ve secured funding, expanded your business, received recognition, or hit a major goal, this is your space to shine and inspire others.
Submit your good news and let us celebrate your success with the Tampa Bay WBC community and some will be spotlighted with our national AWBC because when one of us wins, we all win.
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UPCOMING FREE WBC WEBINARS:
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Friday,
May 8, 2026
12-1pm
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Webinar:
Growth and Momentum Series: Refining Brand After Launch:
How can AI Help?
Join us online for an exciting session on how to boost your brand right after launch! Discover practical tips and innovative ways AI can help you refine and elevate your brand’s presence. Whether you’re a startup or stepping up your game, this event is all about keeping that momentum strong. Don’t miss out on exploring smart strategies to grow and shine with the power of AI!
Presenter:
Dr. Kimberly Rankin, Director, Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre; CEO and Founder Civilian Success Pathways; Success Strategist
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Monday,
May 11, 2026
12-1pm
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Webinar:
Growth & Momentum Series:
Stress Management for
Busy Entrepreneurs
It’s Mental Health Awareness month. Each of us experiences stress from time to time. While it can be unpleasant, stress is something we can learn to manage and respond to in healthier, more effective ways.
In this live, one-hour webinar with Lynne Couchara, C&W Counselor, participants will learn how to better recognize the signs of stress and develop practical coping skills. The session will explore techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation, and healthy habits.
These strategies can help reduce stress while improving focus, creativity, productivity, and overall mental and physical well-being.
Presenter:
Lynne Couchara, MSW Counselor at The Centre for Women
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Friday,
May 29, 2026
12-1pm
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Webinar:
Growth & Momentum Series: Marketing that Matches Your Capacity
Join us online for an exciting session in the Growth & Momentum Series! Discover how to tailor your marketing strategies to fit your business’s unique capacity. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, this event will help you find the perfect balance to boost your growth without the overwhelm. Don’t miss out on practical tips and insights to keep your momentum going strong!
Presenter:
Dr. Kimberly Rankin, Director, Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre; CEO and Founder Civilian Success Pathways; Success Strategist
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Friday,
June 12, 2026
12-1pm
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Webinar:
Growth and Momentum Series:
Cash Flow, Not Just Revenue
Join us online for an exciting session all about boosting your cash flow and understanding why it’s just as crucial as revenue.
Whether you’re a startup or a growing business, learn smart strategies to keep the money moving and maintain real momentum.
Don’t miss out on practical tips to fuel your growth and keep things rolling strong!
Presenter:
Dr. Kimberly Rankin, Director, Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre; CEO and Founder Civilian Success Pathways; Success Strategist
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Thursday,
June 25, 2026
12-1pm
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Webinar:
Disaster Recovery as a Business Entrepreneur: When Disaster Hits
Learn how to bounce back fast and keep your biz thriving when disaster strikes—all online and easy to follow! Presented by the SBA
Gear up to tackle the unexpected! Join our online event and learn how to bounce back like a pro when disaster strikes your business. This session is all about smart recovery strategies, staying calm under pressure, and turning setbacks into comebacks. Perfect for entrepreneurs who want to keep their biz thriving no matter what. Don’t miss out on real talk and practical tips to safeguard your venture!
Presenter:
Dieulanie Claude is an Outreach and Marketing Specialist with the South Florida District Office U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
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Friday,
June 26, 2026
12-1pm
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Webinar:
Growth and Momentum Series: Capital Readiness & Strategic Growth
Join us online for an exciting session all about getting your business capital-ready and driving strategic growth. Whether you’re gearing up to raise funds or just want to boost momentum, this event is packed with tips and insights to help you level up. Don’t miss out on the chance to connect, learn, and set your growth plans in motion!
Presenter:
Dr. Kimberly Rankin, Director, Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre; CEO and Founder Civilian Success Pathways; Success Strategist
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Look for Future Webinars
Stay tuned for additional webinars and educational events. Upcoming opportunities will be shared via Eventbrite and in future newsletters. We currently have 15 seminars slated through December. Check out our website and Eventbrite for future events.
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Are you an entrepreneur or expert
who supports other business owners?
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The Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre is seeking speakers for upcoming workshops, seminars, and webinars. Share your expertise and help empower women entrepreneurs across our region.
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GIVE BACK AND DONATE TODAY!
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Tampa Bay Women’s Business Center provides services free of charge due to the generous donation of our sponsors.
Please consider giving back and donating today!
Thank you!
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Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
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Contact:
The Tampa Bay
Women’s Business Centre
305 S. Hyde Park Ave.
Tampa, FL 33606
813-251-8437
tbwbc@thecentre.org
www.thetampabaywbc.org
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Stay connected with Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre
by following us on social media.
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