Sarasota

DESCRIPTION THRIVE is a member-based small business accelerator that supports the regional entrepreneurial community. We have worked with and assisted hundreds of individual entrepreneurs. Whether you have a new business idea, are a solopreneur, a second-stage business, or even preparing an exit strategy; we provide skill development resources, tech-centric tools, and expert-guided solutions. SERVICES/PROGRAMS The curriculum of training is progressive Read more...

MISSION It is the Sarasota/Manatee MPO’s mission to promote economic diversity, preserve environmental health, and create vibrant places. DESCRIPTION The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is the regional transportation planning entity for Sarasota and Manatee Counties. MPOs are established by state and federal laws and through interlocal agreement to provide a process for local governments within the region to coordinate with the Florida Department Read more...

MISSION Breeze Transit moves people to live, work, and play by delivering exceptional experiences that show customers we value them and their choice to ride transit. DESCRIPTION The Breeze transit system combines traditional bus and trolley routes with OnDemand rideshare service. In 2023 the transit agency provided nearly 2.2 million rides. SERVICES/PROGRAMS • Breeze routes provide transportation along major corridors Read more...

MISSION Through Apprentice Florida, we help businesses find the best solution to build a work-ready, custom-trained team, by utilizing an existing apprenticeship program or creating their own. The best part is establishing a program in Florida can take less than 30 days. DESCRIPTION Apprenticeships are a proven training method benefitting both job seekers and businesses. They are gaining momentum as Read more...

MISSION The Early Learning Coalition prepares children for lifelong success through quality early learning. Every child develops a strong foundation of learning in a community dedicated to ensuring all families have the necessary support to thrive and all children reach their full potential. DESCRIPTION The Early Learning Coalition provides administration and oversight of the local, integrated system of early education Read more...

MISSION The Center for Career Services provides students and alumni with current and cutting edge advice, services, resources, and access to employers, internships, work abroad, and techniques for professionally preparing and engaging in their career world. As experienced career advisors and program developers, we help our students thrive. DESCRIPTION If you’re looking for the best in emerging creative talent, you’ve Read more...

MISSION To grow, diversify, and sustain the economy of Sarasota County while enhancing our unique, natural and cultural environment. DESCRIPTION The EDC of Sarasota County is a non-profit organization whose mission is to grow, diversify and sustain the economy of Sarasota County while enhancing our unique natural and cultural environment. In existence since 2004, the public-private organization works to help Read more...

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 provide a forum and build community amongst the stakeholders of Sarasota’s Downtown Districts. DESCRIPTION The Downtown Sarasota Alliance is an alliance of downtown residents, merchants, businesses and owners of business properties all working together for a vibrant and thriving Downtown Sarasota community. DSAsarasota.com is the site to visit frequently for downtown updates on parking, download the map, weekly Read more...

MISSION We apply business leadership to important community issues. DESCRIPTION The Argus Foundation is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization based in Sarasota County. Established in 1983, we are a think tank and government watchdog. Our founders were concerned about an anti-business climate in government and wanted to make sure they had a pure, unified business voice, unfiltered by government but Read more...