A Message from Dorian Zwierewicz—Our SBDC at FGCU Regional Director
Dear Southwest Florida Business Community,
It is with both gratitude and mixed emotions that I share my decision to step down as Regional Director of the Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University this November to assume the role of State Director for the Connecticut SBDC Network. Serving our region has been an extraordinary privilege, and I am profoundly proud of what our team has accomplished together.
Since 2022, we have worked to expand access and impact for small business owners throughout Southwest Florida. We opened new offices in Cape Coral and Punta Gorda, extended our services to LaBelle to support rural communities, and forged a new partnership with the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce to better serve Collier County. Our center was recognized nationally with the 2024 Small Business Development Center Excellence and Innovation Award from the SBA and the South Florida District SBDC of the Year Award. We introduced the CEO XChange program, revitalized the Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards, and are laying the groundwork for an AI Forum for Small Businesses in early 2026.
Each milestone belongs to the talented team at the Florida SBDC at FGCU and to the business owners who entrusted us to be part of their journey. Your resilience and determination have been the most inspiring aspect of my work. As I take on this new chapter, I carry with me deep respect and affection for this community and the university that made it possible to serve you. The SBDC at FGCU is in excellent hands, and its mission to help businesses launch, grow, and thrive remains as strong as ever.
Thank you for the honor of allowing me to be part of your success.
Warmly,
Dorian Zwierewicz
Regional Director
Florida SBDC at FGCU
Above Board Chamber of Florida
Special AI Symposiums
The Above Board Chamber of Florida is hosting two inspiring events focused on the future of artificial intelligence and its impact on business and nonprofit organizations. These sessions will feature the stellar Emcee Erika Strohm Harper and three outstanding professionals: Noelle Russell, Founder and Chief AI Officer at the AI Leadership Institute; our very own Florida SBDC at FGCU Consultant Heidi Cramer; and Kyle Morse, Co-founder and CEO of Strata52.
Together, they will share real-world insights on how AI can help organizations become more efficient, ethical, and ready for what’s next. Attendees will gain practical takeaways on integrating AI into their operations and decision-making.
Join us on November 17 and November 19 for these engaging discussions and learn how to harness AI to drive innovation and growth in your business or nonprofit.
Register Here
Recycled Firefighter Honored for Manufacturing Excellence
Recycled Firefighter, a proud client of the Florida SBDC at FGCU, has been named the Small Manufacturing Business of the Year at Lee County’s 32nd annual Industry Appreciation Awards. Founded on a passion for durability, craftsmanship, and giving new purpose to retired materials, Recycled Firefighter began as a small workshop transforming decommissioned fire hoses into wallets. Today, it stands as a nationally recognized brand known for its rugged, American-made gear that embodies strength, sustainability, and integrity. Their growth reflects both innovation and heart, integrating modern manufacturing technology while preserving the authenticity that defines their mission. The Florida SBDC at FGCU has been honored to support Recycled Firefighter’s entrepreneurial journey, celebrating their relentless commitment to quality and their meaningful contribution to Southwest Florida’s manufacturing landscape.
Visit our Website for More Information
The Florida SBDC Network is state Designated as Florida’s Principal Provider of Business Assistance [§ 288.001, Fla. Stat.] The FSBDC at FGCU is a member of the Florida SBDC Network, a statewide service network funded in part through cooperative agreements with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Department of Defense, State of Florida and other private and public partners; hosted by Florida Gulf Coast University; and nationally accredited by the Association of SBDCs. Florida SBDC services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Language assistance services are available for limited English proficient individuals. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA or other funding partners.
The Florida SBDC at FGCU is a member of the Florida SBDC Network, a statewide partnership program nationally accredited by the Association of America’s SBDCs and funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration, Department of Defense, State of Florida, and other private and public partners, with the University of West Florida serving as the network’s headquarters. Full funding disclosure available at www.floridasbdc.org/funding-disclosures/. Florida SBDC services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Language assistance services are available for individuals with limited English proficiency.
Florida SBDC at FGCU | 10501 FGCU Blvd S, SoVi Mod II | Fort Myers, FL 33965 US
Unsubscribe | Constant Contact Data Notice