Gainesville’s business climate fosters growth through entrepreneurship and innovation
By Colin McCandless
Greater Gainesville promotes a business-friendly environment offering various resources and support to help budding professionals develop in their careers. There are many opportunities for professional growth including everything from networking and career counseling to chamber of commerce events and entrepreneurial leadership programs.
The region serves as a hub of talent, research and innovation, inspiring future leaders in the sectors of technology, health care, life sciences, information technology and education.
Networking groups and events
The University of Florida’s Sid Martin Biotechnology Incubator holds the annual Celebration of Biotechnology. This networking function features more than 70 vendors and 400 participants. UF’s Office of Technology Licensing hosts the Celebration of Innovative Technology Showcase. This event provides a forum for startup companies in the areas of life sciences, health care and other cutting-edge technologies to interact with entrepreneurs and potential investors.
startGNV, Gainesville’s startup, tech and biotech community is dedicated to growing the innovation ecosystem of Greater Gainesville. startGNV hosts a number of programs, such as the Startup Sprint which is part hackathon, part business pitch competition, Josh Greenberg Day, celebrate GNV, a Founders’ Dinner Series and Barcamp, a one-day gathering where technology-loving Greater Gainesville locals get together and share experiences.
Career and business counseling
CareerSource North Central Florida connects job seekers with employers and delivers services such as resume building, career counseling, mock interviews, training opportunities and access to hiring events. Gainesville SCORE offers free business advice and mentoring guidance covering all aspects of small business operations.
Chamber events and programs
With more than 1,300 member businesses, the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce provides diverse programs and initiatives to help foster business relationships. The Gainesville Chamber hosts more than 100 networking events annually. These events include groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, Business After Hours, Business Before Hours and its annual B2B Showcase.
Additionally, it nurtures professional growth through Leadership Gainesville. This 10-month community leadership program is designed to develop leadership skills and build business contacts. Greater Gainesville Young Professionals, a chamber-funded group created for young professionals ages 21-39, facilitates personal and professional development.
Entrepreneurial programs and opportunities
UF supports aspiring entrepreneurs through wide-ranging groups and programs. These include the Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, The Entrepreneurship Club and GatorNest. Santa Fe College teaches an online entrepreneurship certificate program featuring opportunities to engage with and learn from successful entrepreneurs.
Greater Gainesville’s dynamic business climate makes it the perfect place to connect, thrive and grow in any career field.
Read more about how Greater Gainesville promotes growth in business here.