Small Biz Florida

In this special edition of Small Biz Florida, recorded live at the prestigious 2023 Florida MakesMore Manufacturing Summit at the iconic Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts in downtown Orlando, host Tom Kindred brings you a groundbreaking episode featuring Ken Brace, the innovator behind Rapid Prototyping Services. Journey through the evolution of 3D printing with Ken, from its humble beginnings in the '80s to its current prowess in creating aerospace components. Uncover the diverse applications of 3D printing, exploring materials ranging from plastics to metals like stainless steel. Ken shares insights into how 3D printing has transformed the manufacturing landscape, offering quick-turn prototypes for inventors and facilitating low-volume production for established businesses. Demystify the process of turning napkin sketches into 3D-printed reality and understand the crucial role of CAD files in this innovative journey. Explore Ken's commitment to education and community engagement, as Rapid Prototyping Services collaborates with local schools and serves a diverse clientele, from inventors to defense contractors. The episode concludes with a call to action—subscribe to Small Biz Florida for more exclusive insights from the FloridaMakes MakeMore Manufacturing Summit. Recorded live at the 2023 Make More Manufacturing Summit, hosted at the iconic Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. A special thanks to the conference hosts for having Small Biz Florida attend, and a shoutout to the Dr. Phillips Center for being an outstanding venue for this event. Stay tuned for more episodes as Small Biz Florida continues to spotlight businesses shaping Florida's future. Thrive, innovate, and make your mark on the evolving world of manufacturing with Small Biz Florida, in partnership with the Florida Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College.

In this special episode, Tom engages in a dynamic conversation with Lake Ray, the President of the First Coast Manufacturers Association and a prominent figure in Florida's manufacturing and legislative scene. With a background as a professional engineer and 30 years of experience in engineering and small business ownership, Lake brings a wealth of knowledge to his role at FCMA. Elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2008, Lake has played a pivotal role in shaping policies impacting the manufacturing sector. In this insightful conversation, Lake shares his unique perspective on the challenges facing Florida manufacturers today, from workforce dynamics to supply chain intricacies and evolving policy landscapes. The spotlight of this year's summit is on "digital transformation," and Lake delves into the significance of embracing this revolution for sustained growth and success. Explore the diverse range of industries within Northeast Florida that FCMA represents, from manufacturing medical supplies and fragrances to recycling materials. Discover the importance of Regional Manufacturing Associations (RMAs) like FCMA in bridging the gap between manufacturers, communities, and policymakers. Lake emphasizes the crucial role of networking and collaboration for a thriving manufacturing ecosystem. Tom and Lake wrap up the conversation with a call to action—urging listeners to be part of the interconnected future of manufacturing. Whether you're in the industry or have valuable insights, the message is clear: Let's shape the future together. Recorded live at the 2023 Make More Manufacturing Summit, hosted at the iconic Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. A special thanks to the conference hosts for having Small Biz Florida attend, and a shoutout to the Dr. Phillips Center for being an outstanding venue for this event.

Welcome to a special episode of Small Biz Florida, broadcasting live from the heart of downtown Orlando at the illustrious Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts. We're on the scene at the 2023 Florida MakesMore Manufacturing Summit, where industry leaders converge to explore innovations, collaborations, and the future of manufacturing in the Sunshine State. Today, we're joined by Robert Linder, Senior Operations Manager at GE Renewable Energy, with a remarkable background from military service to manufacturing leadership. Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the summit, we dive into Robert's journey from the Navy to GE and explore exciting developments in renewable energy, specifically the production of onshore wind turbines in Pensacola, FL. In this engaging conversation, we touch upon GE's commitment to green power, the significance of onshore wind in the energy landscape, and the unique role that the Pensacola plant plays in producing every GE wind turbine in North America. The focus then shifts to the Florida Makes event, where Robert is a featured presenter. He delves into the pivotal role of digital transformation in lean manufacturing, emphasizing the need for a laser-focused approach to technological advancements. The discussion covers the challenges of managing a global supply chain, the importance of real-time data in daily operations, and the positive impact of digital transformation on safety, quality, and productivity. Robert shares insights into fostering a culture of innovation within GE, where every team member is encouraged to contribute ideas for continuous improvement. From the importance of staying agile in the ever-evolving manufacturing landscape to the exciting prospects of creating a robust ecosystem in Florida, this episode is a deep dive into the dynamics of modern manufacturing. As we wrap up this enlightening conversation, we encourage you to connect with GE Vernova at GEVernova.com for career opportunities and partnerships. Recorded live at the 2023 Make More Manufacturing Summit, hosted at the iconic Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. A special thanks to the conference hosts for having Small Biz Florida attend, and a shoutout to the Dr. Phillips Center for being an outstanding venue for this event.

Get ready for a riveting episode of Small Biz Florida, live from the hub of innovation – the prestigious Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts in downtown Orlando. Join us as we plunge into the dynamic world of manufacturing at the 2023 Florida Makes More Manufacturing Summit. Our honored guest today is Pavel Kuviarzin, the Business Advisor at FloridaMakes, bringing over 15 years of expertise in revolutionizing operations. Strap in as we explore Pavel's journey, from managing distribution centers to launching his own consulting business, armed with certifications as a Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM). Discover how Pavel, as the Business Advisor of the Southwest Regional Manufacturers Association, leads initiatives to streamline processes and optimize performance for a range of industries. Beyond certifications, Pavel is a hands-on problem solver, managing transformative projects for clients in food and beverage, plumbing and HVAC, and wood molding. In this episode, Pavel shares insights into the current manufacturing landscape in Florida, a state experiencing exponential growth in the sector. Explore the challenges faced by manufacturers, from the need for greater industry participation to the crucial role of digital transformation. Stay tuned as we unravel the theme of the 2023 Florida Makes More Manufacturing Summit – digital transformation. Pavel decodes what this means for manufacturers and why embracing technologies like robotics and AI is not just an option but a necessity for staying competitive. Recorded live at the 2023 Make More Manufacturing Summit, hosted at the iconic Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. A special thanks to the conference hosts for having Small Biz Florida attend, and a shoutout to the Dr. Phillips Center for being an outstanding venue for this event.

Get ready for an electrifying ride through the heart of innovation with Small Biz Florida, recorded live at the 2023 Florida Makes Manufacturing Summit at the renowned Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts in Orlando! In this immersive episode, host Tom Kindred explores the vibrant world of manufacturing, spotlighting the challenges, triumphs, and the thriving small business community that's shaping Florida's industrial landscape. Joining the spotlight is Alex Vasquez, the Vice President of ResourceMFG at Employbridge – a true trailblazer in the manufacturing sector. From his Puerto Rican roots to steering Employbridge's manufacturing division across 34 states, Alex's journey from a machine operator to a transformative leader exemplifies the boundless possibilities within the manufacturing realm. Tune in as Alex passionately reshapes perceptions about manufacturing, dispelling stereotypes, and presenting the industry in a positive light. With infectious enthusiasm, he delves into the intricacies of diverse manufacturing verticals, from aerospace and medical equipment to electronics and defense. Explore how Employbridge, as America's largest industrial workforce provider, is redefining work through a blend of digital prowess and industry expertise. Alex unveils the mission of ResourceMFG – "good people, good jobs" – emphasizing the commitment to showcasing the advancements in modern manufacturing to the next generation. The episode takes an exciting turn as we dive into ResourceMFG's annual survey, uncovering hard facts and key findings from the minds of frontline manufacturing workers. Discover the top issues resonating with this workforce, from competitive compensation to job security and the hunger for advancement opportunities. Navigate through the intricacies of the manufacturing ecosystem as Alex sheds light on ResourceMFG's innovative approach in bridging the skills gap and fostering collaboration with educators, certification providers, and technology companies. Recorded live at the 2023 Make More Manufacturing Summit, hosted at the iconic Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. A special thanks to the conference hosts for having Small Biz Florida attend, and a shoutout to the Dr. Phillips Center for being an outstanding venue for this event.

In this gripping episode of Small Biz Florida, your host Tom Kindred sits down with Horacio Maysonet, the President and CEO of Cyber Security Solutions. A seasoned Air Force veteran, Horacio is on a mission to protect small and medium businesses from the ever-evolving threats in the digital realm. Tom delves into Horacio's background, tracing his journey from the Air Force to the helm of Cyber Security Solutions. Discover the misconceptions about cybersecurity for small businesses and the vulnerabilities that even the smallest enterprises face. Learn about Cyber Security Solutions' unique approach, offering complimentary assessments to businesses and contributing to the development of skilled cybersecurity professionals. Horacio unveils the company's expansion plans and commitment to making cybersecurity accessible without breaking the bank. In a world where cyber threats are rampant, find out how Cyber Security Solutions is reshaping the cybersecurity landscape for small businesses and ensuring they aren't left vulnerable. Recorded live at the 2023 Make More Manufacturing Summit, hosted at the iconic Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. A special thanks to the conference hosts for having Small Biz Florida attend, and a shoutout to the Dr. Phillips Center for being an outstanding venue for this event. Tune in to Small Biz Florida and discover the innovative solutions that are securing the future of Florida's small businesses.

Join us for a thrilling episode of Small Biz Florida, recorded live at the 2023 Florida Chamber Annual Future of Florida Forum in Orlando. Host Tom Kindred sits down with Mark Wilson, President and CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, for an insightful exploration of Florida's economic future. In this dynamic conversation, Tom and Mark dissect key themes from the forum, revealing the secrets behind Florida's economic success. From impressive startup stats to strategic initiatives, Mark provides a behind-the-scenes look at the Florida Chamber's role in securing the state's future. Discover the story behind FloridaScorecard.org and FloridaGapmap.org, powerful tools empowering small businesses. Mark's expertise and Tom's engaging questions make this episode a must-listen for those intrigued by the economic journey of the Sunshine State. Tune in for a quick yet enlightening dive into the "Race to 2030," where Mark shares the strategic blueprint and highlights critical issues shaping Florida's trajectory. Whether you're an entrepreneur or just curious about Florida's economic landscape, this episode promises an insider's perspective on the Sunshine State's exciting race to 2030. Recorded live at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," from Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando near Florida’s Disney World. Special thanks to the Florida Chamber for hosting this momentous event and providing a platform for innovative discussions.

Embark on an enlightening journey with host Tom Kindred in this riveting episode of Small Biz Florida, recorded live at the 2023 Future of Florida Forum. Join the insightful conversation with Eddie Gonzalez Loumiet, the visionary CEO of Ruvos, a trailblazer in public health informatics and health information technology since 2004. Eddie shares his inspiring journey, from roots in Miami to leading Ruvos in Tallahassee. With expertise in computer science and finance, Eddie's career took a turn overseeing technology for an international private bank in Antigua and Barbuda. In 2008, he embraced the challenge of maturing a startup, marking the birth of Ruvos. Discover the significance of Ruvos' name, symbolizing the flow of data in healthcare technology. Eddie sheds light on Ruvos' critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic, moving over 2.5 billion test results nationwide. Reflecting on the intersection of FinTech and healthcare tech, Eddie emphasizes the importance of embracing technology and demystifies concepts like artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. Eddie's entrepreneurial spirit shines as he shares how Ruvos collaborates with major entities, proving that small businesses can make a substantial impact. The episode takes a compelling turn as Eddie delves into Ruvos' commitment to addressing the childcare crisis, advocating for the role of technology in enhancing early childhood education. Explore Eddie's engaging insights from the Future of Florida Forum, emphasizing Ruvos' dedication to improving healthcare infrastructure, cybersecurity initiatives, and contributing to the state's technology ecosystem. Join Tom and Eddie in this illuminating conversation that transcends healthcare and technology, showcasing Ruvos as a force for positive change in Florida and beyond. Recorded live at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," from Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando near Florida’s Disney World. Special thanks to the Florida Chamber for hosting this momentous event and providing a platform for innovative discussions.

Join host Tom Kindred in an inspiring episode of Small Biz Florida, recorded live at the 2023 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum. In this compelling conversation, Tom engages with Keyna Cory, the Executive Director of the Florida Goodwill Association, shedding light on Goodwill's transformative efforts to create an inclusive and empowered workforce across Florida. Explore the heart and soul of Goodwill's mission, extending beyond retail, as Keyna reveals how the organization provides employment, comprehensive training, and career assistance to individuals facing barriers to meaningful work. Discover the impact of every dollar earned in Goodwill stores, with 90 cents reinvested into programs and services benefiting those in need. Dive into the diverse services offered by Goodwill, including job skills training, GED assistance, and specialized programs for individuals with disabilities. The episode unfolds success stories from Goodwill's initiatives, spanning housing projects, homeless shelters, and innovative micro-entrepreneurship training programs, fostering not just employment but also purpose and dignity. Keyna emphasizes Goodwill's collaborative spirit, where nine independent territories exchange ideas, share best practices, and collectively innovate. The commitment to sustainability is evident in Goodwill's effort to divert over 182 million pounds of materials from landfills. As Keyna shares her journey in association management and her role as the Executive Director of the Florida Goodwill Association, listeners gain insights into the organization's entrepreneurial spirit and its partnerships with businesses like Publix and Bells. Connect with Goodwill through their website, where you can explore regions and access contact information tailored to your location. This episode serves as a reminder that Goodwill transcends retail—it's a catalyst for positive change, an advocate for environmental sustainability, and a driving force behind the creation of a thriving and inclusive workforce in Florida. Recorded live at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," from Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando near Florida’s Disney World. Special thanks to the Florida Chamber for hosting this momentous event and providing a platform for innovative discussions.

In this impactful episode of Small Biz Florida, recorded live at the 2023 Florida Chamber Foundation's Future of Florida Forum, host Tom Kindred delves into the transformative work of Better Together with Executive Director Jeff Bell. Discover how Better Together is committed to keeping families united, preventing children from entering foster care, and providing meaningful employment opportunities. Jeff Bell shares his journey to leading Better Together and the organization's innovative approach to addressing family crises. Explore the collaborative efforts with faith-based communities, employers, and social sectors that form a comprehensive solution to challenges faced by families. Gain insights into how Better Together acts as a liaison connecting employers, job seekers, and communities, building a stronger and more supportive workforce. Explore the impact of job fairs and training programs, Better Together's statewide reach, partnerships, and plans for future expansion. Discover the unique 100% privately funded business model of Better Together and its alignment with the Florida Chamber's commitment to addressing children in poverty and workforce development. Learn about ways to engage with Better Together and contribute to their impactful initiatives. Tune in to this enlightening conversation to understand how Better Together is creating positive change in Florida's workforce and fostering stronger, more resilient families. Recorded live at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," from Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando near Florida’s Disney World. Special thanks to the Florida Chamber for hosting this momentous event and providing a platform for innovative discussions.

Join host Tom Kindred in an insightful episode of Small Biz Florida, recorded live at the Future of Florida Forum. In this engaging conversation, Madeleine Thakur, President and CEO of the Children's Movement of Florida, takes center stage, unraveling the crucial role businesses play in shaping Florida's future and the profound impact of early childhood development on the state's workforce. Amidst an assembly of leaders from business, education, and government, the podcast explores initiatives propelling Florida towards 2030. Affectionately known as Ms. Thakur, she shares her unexpected journey from international affairs to leading a non-profit dedicated to early childhood advocacy, emphasizing the local impact and the importance of education. Discover the purpose and mission of the Children's Movement of Florida as the state's foremost advocate for early childhood issues. Gain insights into the pivotal first three years of a child's life and how early education influences future success. Ms. Thakur highlights the role of businesses in supporting families, unlocking potential, and addressing workforce challenges. Delve into the collaboration between the Children's Movement of Florida and the Florida Chamber, focusing on the "Bosses for Babies" initiative. Learn how businesses can contribute to ensuring 100% kindergarten readiness and supporting working parents. Uncover practical strategies, policies, and benefits for creating family-friendly workplaces. For more information, visit www.childrensmovement.org and www.bossesforbabies.com to access valuable resources and the guide to family-friendly workplaces in Florida. Recorded live at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," from Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando near Florida’s Disney World. Special thanks to the Florida Chamber for hosting this momentous event and providing a platform for innovative discussions.

Join us for an engaging episode of Small Biz Florida, recorded at the 2023 Florida Chamber Annual Future of Florida Forum. Host Tom Kindred sits down with Suzy Teele, Chief Strategy Officer at the ARM Institute, to uncover the impact of advanced robotics on Florida's manufacturing landscape. Suzy Teele, a recent Florida transplant from Pittsburgh, shares her passion for advancing U.S. manufacturing through technology. The ARM Institute, headquartered in Pittsburgh with an office in St. Petersburg, aims to bridge the gap for small manufacturers, offering resources and funding to tackle challenges. Explore RoboticsCareer.org, a platform connecting individuals with training programs in manufacturing involving robotics or AI. Suzy envisions creating a network of Robotics Manufacturing Hubs across Florida, fostering collaboration with organizations like FloridaMakes to address production challenges. In this episode, Suzy challenges the misconception of job losses in manufacturing due to technology, emphasizing lifelong learning and opportunities within the evolving industry. Tom and Suzy discuss the importance of building an ecosystem to support advanced manufacturing, connecting education, manufacturers, and STEM-focused individuals. Recorded live at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," from Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando near Florida’s Disney World. Special thanks to the Florida Chamber for hosting this momentous event and providing a platform for innovative discussions.

Fasten your seatbelts as our host, Tom Kindred, engages in a profound conversation with Mr. Jamal Sowell, President of Business Solutions at Indelible Solutions. From deep-rooted sixth-generation Floridian ties to Marine Corps service, and from being the former Florida Secretary of Commerce to CEO of Enterprise Florida, Jamal brings a wealth of experience and insights to our discussion. Together, they delve into the challenges confronting Florida's businesses, the transformative impact of technology integration, the nuances of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and the pivotal role played by Indelible Solutions in shaping the economic future of the state. This dynamic discussion covers a spectrum of topics, from broadband expansion to the evolving dynamics of work post-COVID. This podcast isn't just a listening experience; it's your front-row ticket to the epicenter of Florida's business revolution. Small Biz Florida is set to take you on a thrilling ride through the corridors of economic development, business solutions, and the incredible future that lies ahead for the Sunshine State. Recorded live at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," from Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando near Florida’s Disney World. Special thanks to the Florida Chamber for hosting this momentous event and providing a platform for innovative discussions.

Join us for a special on-site episode at the 2023 Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum, where Tom Kindred engages in a captivating conversation with Sheri Cheney Jones, the distinguished CEO and Founder of SureImpact. In this exclusive interview, Sheri, armed with a background in industrial and organizational psychology, shares her fascinating journey from aiding individuals with mental illness to revolutionizing the way nonprofits utilize data for social good. Discover the impetus behind Sheri's entrepreneurial ventures, including Measurement Resources and SureImpact, as she unveils how these entities empower mission-driven organizations. Sheri sheds light on the pivotal role of data in steering social change, drawing from her extensive experience evaluating programs in juvenile courts and the state of Ohio. The dialogue delves into the essence of SureImpact, a cutting-edge Impact Management software designed to elevate case management and demonstrate the effectiveness of services. From the flexibility of user-defined metrics to the scalability of the cloud-based platform, Sheri articulates how SureImpact caters to diverse organizations nationwide. The discussion pivots to the nonprofit sector, exploring the common challenge of time constraints and the reluctance to embrace technology. Sheri provides insights into overcoming these barriers and highlights the significance of SureImpact in providing mission metrics for nonprofit boards of directors. By fostering transparency and demonstrating social return on investment, Sheri advocates for a paradigm shift in how nonprofits communicate their impact. Tom and Sheri also touch upon the evolving landscape of data tools, ranging from off-the-shelf CRM software to specialized solutions like SureImpact. Sheri demystifies the misconception that data is solely for financial metrics, underlining the importance of tailoring tools for mission-driven organizations. As the episode concludes, Sheri shares her motivation for attending the Future of Florida Forum and expresses her support for the Florida Chamber of Commerce's visionary 2030 blueprint. With an inspiring blend of expertise and passion, Sheri Cheney Jones leaves listeners with a deeper understanding of the transformative power of data in steering social impact and propelling organizations toward success. Tune in to Small Biz Florida for this enriching dialogue, where business meets social change, and explore the boundless potential of navigating the data-driven landscape! Recorded live at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," from Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando near Florida’s Disney World. Special thanks to the Florida Chamber for hosting this momentous event and providing a platform for innovative discussions.

Dive into the dynamic world of education and workforce development in this special episode of Small Biz Florida, recorded live at the 2023 Florida Chamber Foundation's Annual Future of Florida Forum. Join Tom Kindred as he engages in a revelatory conversation with the inspiring Lorri Benjamin, Director of Adult and Community Education for Brevard Public Schools. Setting the stage for the conversation, Tom captures the essence of the Future of Florida Forum—a combination of business, education, and government leaders focused on steering Florida towards growth in 2030. Lorri, a seasoned educator, takes center stage, sharing insights from her remarkable journey in Brevard Public Schools. As the dialogue unfolds, Lorri reveals the groundbreaking Adult and Community Education program, challenging norms by integrating adult education into the K-12 public school system. Tom navigates the intricacies, unraveling the seamless pathway from high school to career certification that defines this innovative program. The episode provides a front-row seat to Lorri's passionate advocacy for equity in education and alternative pathways to success. Tom delves into program specifics, extracting insights into affordability, eligibility criteria, and the pivotal role of wraparound services, emphasizing how the team tailors programs to community needs. Recorded live at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," from Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando near Florida’s Disney World. Special thanks to the Florida Chamber for hosting this momentous event and providing a platform for innovative discussions.

Welcome to Small Biz Florida, the podcast dedicated to Florida's small business community, presented by the Florida SBDC Network. Today, we're live from the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," exploring innovative solutions. Joining us is Maria Darby, COO at Dwyer Workforce Development, making a significant impact on healthcare workforce development. Maria shares Dwyer's threefold vision: empowering underserved populations, enhancing seniors' lives, and addressing the healthcare staffing crisis. Dwyer not only trains individuals as Certified Nursing Assistants but also provides wrap-around support services for their entire journey, from certification to career advancement. Discover how Dwyer's successful model from Baltimore and Texas has expanded to Florida, with a focus on the state's unique demographic challenges. Maria emphasizes the flexibility of Dwyer's eligibility, targeting underserved communities without strict requirements. The episode delves into Dwyer's funding model, highlighting Jack Dwyer's visionary investment and strategic partnerships. Recorded live at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," from Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando near Florida’s Disney World. Special thanks to the Florida Chamber for hosting this momentous event and providing a platform for innovative discussions.

Today, we're at the forefront of innovation at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum" in Orlando, exploring groundbreaking solutions. Joining us is Jim Marggraff, the CEO and Founder of Kibeam Learning. Jim takes us on a captivating journey through his entrepreneurial career, starting with the creation of LeapFrog's iconic LeapPad. Fast forward to today, and Jim introduces us to Kibeam, a revolutionary tool designed to make learning to read fun and accessible for kids aged 2 to 8. With a live demonstration, Jim showcases the Kibeam wand—a compact device that transforms any existing paper book into an interactive learning experience. This innovative approach to literacy aims to tackle the alarming statistics of kids below grade level in reading, emphasizing accessibility and engagement. In a special announcement, Jim reveals Kibeam's collaboration with the University of Florida's Lastinger Center for Learning, bringing this technology to families in Florida. The initiative includes a program offering free books to children, with the first 10,000 families receiving a complimentary Kibeam wand. Join us on this episode of Small Biz Florida for a front-row seat to the Future of Florida Forum and the unveiling of Kibeam Learning.  Recorded live at the Florida Chamber's "Future of Florida Forum," from Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando near Florida’s Disney World. Special thanks to the Florida Chamber for hosting this momentous event and providing a platform for innovative discussions.

In this special episode of Small Biz Florida, we're coming to you live from the Florida Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders conference. Our focus is clear: assisting small business owners and operators in accessing the capital they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses. To guide us through this financial landscape, we have a distinguished guest, Mr. William A. Wilson, CCIM, CFP(R), Vice President & Business Development Officer for Southwestern Florida Markets at Florida First Capital. William brings a wealth of experience to the conversation, with almost three decades in the banking industry. He shares his journey, from being a branch manager in southern Nevada to his current role at Florida First Capital. His mission is simple yet impactful: helping small business owners secure the necessary funds for significant capital investments, such as equipment and machinery. Florida First Capital, a non-profit government financial institution, plays a pivotal role in administering the SBA 504 program. This program, shaped by Congress in the 1980s, is celebrated for its exceptional rates and terms, making it an attractive option for small businesses. William explains how it combines government bonds with private lending from banks and credit unions, allowing entrepreneurs to buy commercial properties, machinery, and equipment with a low down payment. During the episode, William highlights the collaborative nature of CDCs (Certified Development Companies) like Florida First Capital, working in partnership with local banks and credit unions to structure loans that meet the unique needs of small business owners. The result? Small business owners only invest a modest percentage of the total cost, while banks and credit unions enjoy added security. William also discusses the Green Energy Program, which enables businesses to borrow additional funds for energy-efficient projects like solar power installations. This initiative not only supports sustainability but also creates more jobs, enhancing the overall economic landscape. If you're a small business owner looking to understand how to access capital and unlock growth opportunities, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we demystify the world of small business financing and discover how organizations like Florida First Capital are dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs. Recorded live at this year’s FLAGGL Small Business Lender’s Conference hosted at The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes Learn more about Florida First Capital Finance Corporation: https://ffcfc.com/ 

Join us on this episode of Small Biz Florida, where we delve deep into the world of international trade and how small businesses can tap into global opportunities. Broadcasting live from the Florida Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders Conference, our focus is on the critical role this conference plays in providing small business owners with the working capital they need to meet the demands of exporting goods and services to a global market. We have two distinguished guests with us today who shed light on this important topic. First up is Patrick Hayes, the Export Finance Director East at the U.S. Small Business Administration. Patrick emphasizes the significance of helping small businesses gain access to financing that allows them to take full advantage of international sales opportunities. He discusses the various ways the SBA provides crucial support, including a substantial 90% guaranty on Export Working Capital Lines of Credit, making it easier for businesses to secure the capital needed for international expansion. Our second guest is  Daniel Pische, who serves as Director, of National Trade Finance at SBA Daniel is a seasoned expert in the field and graduated from Northern Illinois University. He is currently based in Washington, D.C., United States, where he brings his extensive experience and insights into trade finance to the forefront. Daniel highlights the pivotal role of working capital in international trade and the importance of providing businesses with the financial resources required to scale their global growth. During this episode, we explore the benefits of these financing programs, including advances on foreign accounts receivable, inventory financing, standby Letters of Credit (LCs) for export purposes, and foreign purchase order financing. We discuss the flexibility these programs offer, such as not requiring a specific U.S. content percentage, making them accessible to a wide range of businesses. Tune in to discover how the SBA is working diligently to empower small businesses in conquering global markets. We delve into the need for working capital to fulfill international demand, ensuring that small businesses can thrive on the global stage. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses internationally and make the most of global opportunities. Recorded live at this year’s FLAGGL Small Business Lender’s Conference hosted at The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes Learn more about the SBA Office of International Trade

Join us in this informative episode as we navigate the world of small business financing with Richard Giessert, Vice President and SBA Loan Officer at Marine Bank & Trust. Discover Richard's background, his pathway to Marine Bank & Trust, and the vital role he plays in helping small business owners access the capital they need to grow and thrive. Richard shares insights into the significance of community banks and how they differ from larger institutions. Learn about the flexibility, responsiveness, and personalized service that community banks like Marine Bank & Trust provide to their clients. With a local focus and decision-making authority, community banks can tailor financial solutions to meet the unique needs of small businesses. Explore the various government-guaranteed products available to small business owners, including 7A and 504 loans. Richard breaks down the primary uses of these loans, from working capital to business acquisitions, real estate, and equipment financing. Discover how the 504 loan program allows borrowers to get in with as little as 10% down, offering significant savings compared to conventional loans. Understand the importance of a well-structured business plan and financial projections when seeking financing for expansion or acquisition. Richard emphasizes the value of collaboration with organizations like the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in preparing loan applications. Richard also delves into the SSBIC (State Small Business Investment Company) program, highlighting its unique role in providing financial support to businesses that may not qualify for conventional lending. Discover how the SSBIC program can be leveraged under specific circumstances to help small businesses succeed. Learn about the approval process for SBA loans and how local decision-making and partnerships with organizations like the SBDC play a crucial role in advancing loan applications. Richard shares the importance of marketing and continually nurturing a strong pipeline of loan opportunities. Explore the nuances between SBA and SSBIC programs, including differences in guarantees and eligibility criteria. Discover how the SSBIC program can be a valuable resource for businesses with unique needs, such as nonprofits. Join us for an enlightening conversation that provides valuable insights into the world of small business financing and the essential role community banks play in supporting local businesses. Recorded live at this year’s FLAGGL Small Business Lender’s Conference hosted at The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes Learn more about Marine Bank & Trust: https://www.marinebankandtrust.com/