INITIATIVEs
IGNITE ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER
Officially launched in October of 2023 with the first cohort of its Tourism Innovation business incubator program, IGNITE Center will continue to be a resource for entrepreneurs in the early stages of business creation and growth. Located inside AMPLIFY Clearwater headquarters at 1346 S. Fort Harrison Avenue in Clearwater, IGNITE plans to serve some of the 100,000+ small businesses in the Tampa Bay region to drive sustainability, improve resilience, and attract new economic development opportunities.
Programming will include twice-yearly business incubator cohorts, multi-day bootcamp programs, and workshops.
We need your help to continue providing services to entrepreneurs who are in a critical stage of growth; please follow the links below to donate your time, talent and/or treasure, or to sponsor this program of work: HERE
PROGRAMS
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AMPLIFY'S TOURISM INCUBATOR
On the heels of Clearwater being named #1 beach in the US again this year, our business incubator will further capitalize on what our community already does so well. Our goal is to focus on emerging trends and innovative ideas to guarantee a sustainable delivery and continued success.
INCUBATOR
Why AMPLIFY?
Why Now?
Mission and Objectives
The mission of the incubator is to cultivate a vibrant and sustainable tourism ecosystem by:
- Identifying and nurturing promising existing growth stage tourism companies
- Providing comprehensive support and resources to accelerate business growth
- Facilitating collaboration and knowledge-sharing among entrepreneurs, industry experts, and investors
- Fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability within the tourism sector
- Driving equitable and inclusive economic development in the Tampa Bay region
Services and Offerings
The incubator will offer a wide range of services tailored to the unique needs of tourism businesses:
- Mentorship and Coaching: Experienced mentors will guide and advise entrepreneurs, helping them refine their business strategies and navigate the challenges of the tourism industry.
- Access to Capital: The incubator will connect businesses with potential investors and tourism-focused funding opportunities to secure necessary capital for growth.
- Shared Resources: Businesses will have access to shared office spaces, technology infrastructure, and networking events to promote collaboration and idea exchange.
- Industry Partnerships: Strategic partnerships with tourism organizations, government agencies, and industry leaders will provide invaluable market insights and potential pilot opportunities.
- Training and Workshops: Tailored workshops and training sessions will equip entrepreneurs with the skills needed to build and scale their tourism businesses effectively.
Selection Criteria
To ensure the incubator’s success and maintain a high standard of innovation, the selection process for businesses will be intake-based and reliant on the following criteria:
- Alignment with tourism Focus: Businesses must demonstrate a clear connection to the tourism sector and offer solutions that enhance sustainable tourism practices, visitor experiences, or destination marketing.
- Growth Potential: The business model and market potential of each business will be evaluated, prioritizing those with scalable and sustainable growth prospects.
- Team and Leadership: Strong, adaptable, and dedicated founders with a clear vision for their business will be given preference during the selection process.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The incubator is looking for motivated, experienced founders with promising tourism/hospitality ventures that are poised for growth. The incubator will provide the mentorship, resources, and environment to help scale the business.
INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE
Founder with 3-5 years of experience in the tourism/hospitality industry. Have worked in operations, marketing, or business development roles & understand the fundamentals of the industry.
GROWTH STAGE
Their business is in the growth stage, meaning it has an established product/service, initial customers and revenue, and is looking to scale.
PLANNING ASSISTANCE
They are seeking help with strategic planning, marketing, technology implementation, talent recruitment, funding, and expanding to new markets.
CLEAR VISION
The founder has a clear vision for the future of the company and demonstrates tenacity and adaptability. They are open to mentorship and advice from the incubator.
VALUE OFFERING
Has a differentiated offering in the tourism/hospitality space that provides value through technology, a unique experience, or serving an underserved segment.
MARKET POTENTIAL
There is a large addressable market opportunity for growth. The founder has done research validating the market potential.
ENTREPRENEURIAL EXPERIENCE
The founder has previous entrepreneurial experience or transferrable skills. They understand the fundamentals of business operations, finance, and management.
INITIAL FUNDING
Preferably the business has some initial funding or revenue to demonstrate traction and viability. There is a path to profitability.
TIME INVESTMENT
The founder must be able to commit up to 10 hours a week (2 hours in-person) to engaging with the incubator and working on the business. They cannot be stretched too thin.
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION FOR THE NEXT COHORT!
WORKSHOPS & BOOTCAMPS
WORKSHOPS
& BOOTCAMPS
TOURISM WEBINAR CALENDAR
- Session #1 Tuesday August 20th, 2024 (12-1 PM)
- Session #2 Tuesday September 17th , 2024 (12-1 PM)
- Session #3 Tuesday October 15th , 2024 (12-1 PM)
- Session #4 Tuesday November 5th , 2024 (12-1 PM)
TOURISM MARKETING WEBINAR SERIES
MASTER MARKETING & BRAND DEVELOPMENT WITH BLKDOG
AMPLIFY Clearwater is proud to announce our partnership with BLKDOG on a multi-week program for business owners seeking clarity and support in their marketing decisions in today’s competitive and ever-changing market.
Together, we’re launching Master Marketing & Brand Development, an innovative virtual multi-week program designed to equip business owners like you with the right tools to excel in marketing. During our program, you will learn how to effectively reach your target audience and convey your brand’s message and values.
This program will provide invaluable resources and foster a supportive community of fellow successful business owners right here in the Clearwater area. As a member of AMPLIFY Clearwater, you’ll gain exclusive access to BLKDOG’s expert guidance and innovative strategies!
Don’t miss the opportunity to take your business to new heights – apply now to secure your seat in our bootcamp! Applications are due Wednesday, September 4th, 2024; bootcamp begins Tuesday, September 10th, 2024.
Click the button below to learn more and to apply
BOOTCAMP CALENDAR
- Session #1 IN PERSON Tuesday September 10th, 2024 (5-7 PM)
- Session #2 VIRTUAL Tuesday September 17th , 2024 (5-7 PM)
- Session #3 VIRTUAL Tuesday September 24th , 2024 (5-7 PM)
- Session #4 VIRTUAL Tuesday October 1st , 2024 (5-7 PM)
- Session #5 IN PERSON Tuesday October 15th , 2024 (5-7 PM)
