TAMPA, FL (February 6, 2014) – Beginning this month, Tampa Bay WorkForce Alliance will launch an innovative technology-focused training program, called Startup Quest™, in Hillsborough County. The program educates aspiring entrepreneurs about opportunities to commercialize technologies developed at Florida’s universities and federal laboratories.
The program is open to veterans and professionals with college degrees who are either unemployed or underemployed, and considering self-employment or working for a startup as a career path. Interested candidates must attend the no-obligation Informational Session on Monday, February 10, 2014 (1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) at TPepin’s Hospitality Centre (4121 North 50th Street, Tampa). To register for the event, please visit https://tbstartupinfosession.eventbrite.com/.
Experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders will lead an intensive 10-week training course. The mentors will guide participants through the process of creating simulated business plans to bring new, patentable inventions and technologies to market. The program culminates with an investor pitch contest in front of experienced judges. Training is provided at no cost to eligible participants and will begin February 24th thru April 28th. (Meeting every Monday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Centre Club on Westshore Blvd. in Tampa).
“Entrepreneurs play a vital role in economic development and new job creation” states Edward Peachey, President & CEO of WorkNet Pinellas and Tampa Bay WorkForce Alliance. “Hopefully, the skills gained during the program will empower participants to form their own startup company here in the Tampa Bay area.”
About Tampa Bay WorkForce Alliance and Tampa Bay Startup Quest™: Tampa Bay WorkForce Alliance is one of eight workforce boards in Florida launching Startup Quest™. Startup Quest™ is part of an evaluation study funded by the U.S. Department of Labor. Participants will be selected from among eligible applicants. Data collected will remain confidential and will be used for statistical purposes only.
Tampa Bay WorkForce Alliance and its regional workforce board partners are members of the Employ Florida statewide network of workforce services and resources. TBWA and Startup Quest™ are an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities by calling TTY/TDD 711.
