This year marked a period of growing impact for the St. Petersburg Innovation District as a catalyst for innovation and economic growth.
District partners continued to advance cutting-edge work in marine science, life sciences, and data/technology, turning research into real-world solutions that benefit both the local community and global challenges. Tenants of the Maritime and Defense Technology Hub continued to thrive, growing their teams and launching new initiatives.
Equally important was progress beyond the labs and offices. The District fostered new spaces for innovation through our year-long Master Planning effort, expanded regional partnerships in the development of the Tampa Bay Ocean Strategy, and updated the Innovation Ecosystem Map to help entrepreneurs navigate available resources across Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, and Manatee counties.
Through our annual State of Science and Innovation event and the relaunch of the Innovation in the 'Burg Podcast, we elevated the role of innovation as a guiding force for St. Petersburg’s future. Signature events such as the St. Pete Science Festival and MarineQuest inspired the next generation by introducing youth and their families to hands-on STEAM experiences and careers shaping tomorrow’s economy.
At our Morning Sparks breakfasts and monthly Tech X-Changes, the District served as a true convening platform—bringing together researchers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and residents to explore emerging technologies, share insights, and strengthen collaboration across the innovation ecosystem.
Through deepened national partnerships with The Continuum – an Ocean Enterprise Accelerator and international collaboration with the Global Institute of Innovation Districts, we expanded and reinforced St. Petersburg’s reputation as a hub for new ideas and solutions.
As the District looks ahead—toward new projects, expanded capacity, and its next decade of impact—this year serves as a reminder of what is possible when vision, partnership, and community alignment come together. The St. Petersburg Innovation District remains focused on turning innovation into outcomes that strengthen the city and inspire what’s next.
Alison Barlow
CEO
Highlighting the organizations and individuals part of the Innovation District!
Season 2 of the Innovation in the 'Burg podcast is officially launching this month, and we're already gearing up to film Season 2.5!
Faculty, researchers, and students from the USF College of Marine Science have been settling into spaces across the Innovation District following the recent fire, continuing their important work.