Business Resources

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 Read more...

MISSION AND STRATEGIC PILLARS More than a sector or an industry, high tech touches and transforms our world on a daily basis. Refined by our Strategic Task Force, these four pillars uphold our broader vision for the future of Florida’s techscape and define our work to unleash the region’s expotential. • Community-Driven Innovation • Catalytic Investment • Boundary-Breaking Collaboration • Intentional Read more...

VISION The Chamber’s vision is to create the best business climate in the United States. Our vision is not about having more. It is about having better. Our view of the ideal business climate is a balance between quality of living and quality of working. It is a community abundant with talent, embracing of technology, and encouraging of diversity.​ MISSION 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 is a dynamic, inclusive community where business leaders come together to share experiences, offer support, and foster a collective sense of purpose. We provide a unique space for executives to connect personally Read more...

MISSION The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is an international non-profit association that promotes and supports the advancement and employment of women in the construction industry. The association is committed to championing women to impact the direction of the construction industry by providing education, community, and advocacy for women. CORE PURPOSE Strengthen and amplify the success of women 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 The world moves at the speed of change, and change happens at the speed of trust. The Patterson Foundation believes that philanthropy strengthens the efforts of people, organizations, and communities. Strong communities work together to achieve shared aspirations Read more...

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 An Extension of the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, the UF Innovation Station Sarasota County is driving regional economic development by connecting local industry with the University of Florida’s Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering resources – talent, research expertise and capabilities. DESCRIPTION The UF Innovation Station Sarasota County (UFIS-SC) is the first physical extension of the Herbert Wertheim College Read more...

MISSION Led by outstanding faculty and professional staff, the University of South Florida conducts innovative scholarship, creative activity and basic and translational research, and delivers a world-class educational experience promoting the success of our talented undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. USF, in partnership with our communities, serves the people of Florida, the nation, and the world by fostering intellectual inquiry Read more...

MISSION Promoting business growth and success since 1925. The Venice Area Chamber of Commerce believes in creating a dynamic environment for a thriving, vibrant and prosperous business community for the greater Venice Area. DESCRIPTION Our culture is founded on four core values that drive and unite us: Commitment: Each day our members roll up their sleeves, open for business, and deliver Read more...