This summer was bursting at the seams with projects. As a result, we took a brief break from our monthly newsletter. Its back and there is lots to share...
District Impact Report: Look for our next Impact Report later this year. Similar to an annual report (except we do this every 4 years) it provides an update on the progress made since the District's formation in 2016 - both the metrics and the stories.
District Master Plan: The planning process has begun. Focus groups launch this week and the online tool for submitting ideas is live! See the initiative "master planning."
Ocean-based Economy: The "marine science" industry in St. Petersburg has been growing for decades with strong government and academic partners. We are working hard to find ways to help private industry, particularly entrepreneurs and small businesses, develop marketable solutions for climate, resiliency, hazard mitigation and more.
Science Festival: Our 2025 Festival dates are set - February 7 and 8. We are currently looking for sponsors to assist with this impactful program (2024 had 1000 4th and 5th graders on school day; 13000 visitors to the public festival). Opportunities for exhibitors, volunteers, and junior scientists open later this fall. For more information visit https://stpetescifest.org/
Alison Barlow
Executive Director
article originated in the September 2024 newsletter
photo credit: Two Stories Media
Join us on our next tour of the Innovation District! Our tour will begin at the HUB, and we will board a trolley with other Innovation District partners. As we travel throughout the District, you will learn about the fascinating history and exciting future plans for the area. We will make several stops for a unique insider view of the research and collaborations underway. Participants are invited to enjoy a networking happy hour back at the HUB, where our tour will conclude.
A group of support organizations, led by the Innovation District and fueled by a grant from Duke Energy, developed our first Tampa Bay Innovation Ecosystem Map in 2023. We aim to continue guiding entrepreneurs to the best possible resources with an updated version.
Josh Rojas of Bay News 9 recently visited the Maritime and Defense Tech Hub, where he was welcomed by CEO Alison Barlow and COO Lauren Bell for a discussion about the building’s future expansion. The Hub is already home to a thriving community of companies and demand continues to grow. To accommodate this momentum, leaders are envisioning Hub 2.0, a second building proposed for the west parking lot.