MISSION To provide businesses the expertise and resources to succeed. DESCRIPTION The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at University of South Florida assists existing and emerging businesses in Sarasota County, through no-cost confidential business consulting, information, and low-cost training. Our professionally credentialed consultants have the real-world experience and expertise to help you make the right business decisions. Our consultants’ Read more...

MISSION To create and administer effective and on-going advertising, promotional, and environmental programs for the benefit of the entire St. Armands Business Community. DESCRIPTION Although there have been many transformations and updates, the St. Armands Circle Association has been servicing the merchants and visitors of St. Armands Circle since 1965. Incorporated in 1987 as a member-supported 501c6, we are proud Read more...

MISSION Creating a talent pipeline of skilled developers and I.T. professionals through quality training, mentoring, and networking opportunities. DESCRIPTION The SCF Coding Academy is a premier training center, promoting technical talent development in Manatee, Sarasota, and surrounding areas to create economic opportunity in our communities. We offer immersive courses, certificate programs, and seminars on in-demand technical skills. Through career preparation, Read more...

MISSION State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, guided by measurable standards of institutional excellence, provides engaging and accessible learning environments that result in student success and community prosperity. DESCRIPTION Workforce Training serves area business, industry, and government by upskilling employees through quality training at an affordable price and works with local agencies to obtain grant funding, which may cover some or Read more...

MISSION Suncoast Technical College provides quality technical education to meet workforce development and community needs. DESCRIPTION Suncoast Technical College is a multi-faceted postsecondary institution offering courses to adults and high school students in our community. We offer day and evening classes in over 40 technical programs that focus on competencies and outcomes driven by local workforce needs. STC students also Read more...

MISSION We apply business leadership to important community issues. VISION The Argus Foundation applies business leadership to identify, educate, advocate, and collaborate on solutions for important community issues that will enhance the quality of life, environment, and economic well-being of Sarasota County.  We keep a broad community perspective. We identify issues. We offer lasting rather than temporary solutions. We impact Read more...

MISSION Powered by an ethos of collaboration, the Florida High Tech Corridor aligns opportunities and resources across academia, industry and economic development to unleash the region’s “expotential.” DESCRIPTION Established in 1996, The Corridor is a nonprofit economic development partnership of the University of Central Florida (UCF), the University of South Florida (USF) and the University of Florida (UF). More than Read more...

MISSION The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce works to cultivate Sarasota’s prosperity and quality of life through our member businesses. DESCRIPTION The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce’s dynamic group of 1,200 member companies and organizations recognize the value of working together to accomplish what no single member could hope to achieve individually. Using our members’ collective vision, resources, and energy, Read more...

MISSION To be the premier organization for entrepreneurial Chief Executive Officers and Business Owners in the Gulf Coast area of Southwest Florida. DESCRIPTION The Gulf Coast CEO Forum’s foundation is built upon its ability to build relationships, generate ideas, and formulate solutions. All three components are focused on the management and growth of the members’ businesses. The CEO Forum is Read more...

MISSION The Patterson Foundation strengthens the efforts of people, organizations, and communities in ways that foster wide participation around shared quality-of-life aspirations. DESCRIPTION We optimize our assets and impact by: • Weaving initiatives to promote the well-being of our region • Creating relationships that propel people and organizations to collaborate on shared aspirations • Equipping communities for a future of excellence for all The Read more...