Join Us for the Annual Florida SBDC at USF Business Awards
Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Time: 11:30a – 1:30p
Location: USF Marshall Center, 4103 USF Cedar Circle, Second Floor – 2100 AB, Tampa, FL 33620
Keynote Speaker: Jay Rogers, Jr., CEO and Co-Founder of Haddy
Cost: $99
Celebrate the outstanding achievements of small businesses within our 10-County Tampa Bay region at the Florida SBDC at USF Annual Business Awards! This signature event honors the entrepreneurial spirit and recognizes the success of our small business clients, the excellence of our dedicated staff, and the invaluable contributions of our partners.
Our keynote speaker, John “Jay” B. Rogers, Jr., CEO & Co-Founder of Haddy, grew up a lover of woodworking, machines, and a student of industry; his grandfather owned the legendary Indian Motorcycle Company, founded concrete and steel giant Texas Industries, and was the first Cummins Engine Distributor in the United States. Jay’s grandfather is also credited with saving the Public Broadcasting System during the Nixon Administration and co-founding the Children’s Television Workshop, which is best known for Sesame Street. In embracing his family legacy of manufacturing and innovation, Jay has added his military leadership, entrepreneurship, and education, in order to hand-select a team of co-founders and set forth on a most ambitious plan: Creating Haddy – manufacturer of heroic, beautiful, durable furniture for retailers, to their design, built locally in the most resilient and sustainable manner.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will also present their prestigious SBA Small Business Awards during this event.
Enjoy a day of inspiration, connection, and celebration:
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with small business owners, partners, and colleagues.
- Exhibitor Booths: Explore resources and services from key business partners.
- Lunch Included: Share a meal with fellow attendees.
- Celebration of Excellence: Honor the innovators and leaders shaping Florida’s economy.
Tentative Agenda
11:30am: Doors Open & Networking
12:00 pm: Event Starts
12:05 pm – 12:50 pm: Florida SBDC Performance Awards, SBDC Business Awards, SBA National Small Business Awards
12:50 pm – 1:10 pm: Keynote
1:13 pm – 1:15 pm: Closing Remarks
1:15 pm – 1:30 pm: Final Networking
Don’t miss this chance to support and celebrate the vibrant entrepreneurial community that drives our region forward. RSVP Now to secure your spot!
Presenting Sponsor: Suncoast Credit Union
Gold Sponsor: Lake Michigan Credit Union
Interested in Sponsoring? Find details here.
