 Entrepreneurial Insights is an email newsletter designed to provide snippets of the SBDC at FGCU’s knowledge and insights to the SWFL entrepreneurial and business communities. Filled with articles about current issues in the business world and recommendations on how to thrive in this community, the Entrepre- neurial Insights email newsletter is your one-stop shop for all things small bus- iness and SBDC. News and Updates:  DISTINGUISHED ENTREPRENEUR TICKETS NOW ON SALE! Mark your calendars for one of the most anticipated events of the year—the 2025 Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards, hosted by the Florida SBDC at FGCU! This inspiring celebration of Southwest Florida’s small business leaders will take place on May 15 at the beautiful Cohen Ballroom at FGCU. This prestigious event highlights the achievements of local entrepreneurs who have demonstrated innovation, advocacy, and leadership in shaping the SWFL business community. Attended by over 150 community leaders and business owners, the Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards are the perfect opportunity to honor excellence and connect with like-minded professionals. Tickets are on sale now—don’t miss your chance to attend! By joining us, you’ll not only celebrate the achievements of our region’s top entrepreneurs, but you’ll also strengthen your connections within the vibrant SWFL business ecosystem. Visit our website to purchase your tickets today and join us in supporting and cele- brating the small businesses that make our community thrive. Together, let’s recog- nize the leaders shaping the future of SWFL! Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards  CEO XCHANGE Take a Seat at the Table and Unlock Success Are you ready to take your leadership to the next level? CEO XChange is an exclusive, confidential executive roundtable tailored for Southwest Florida’s top CEOs and business owners. This dynamic program, sponsored by Bank of America, creates opportunities for peer-to-peer engagement, where non- competing leaders collaborate to solve real business challenges and share actionable insights. Held monthly, CEO XChange provides a trusted environment for professional and personal growth, guided by experienced facilitators. Members gain access to valuable resources, personalized consulting, and a strong network of fellow executives who understand the complexities of leadership. Membership is limited and applications for the 2025 calendar year are closing soon! Join this unique community of business leaders and unlock new oppor- tunities for growth, visioning, and success. Visit our website to apply today! CEO XChange  ABC’s of EXPORTING ROADSHOW Discover how to take your Florida-based business to the global stage with the ABC’s of Exporting Roadshow, hosted by the SBDC at FGCU and Florida Commerce. This event is designed to help businesses explore inter- national market opportunities, assess export readiness, and learn practical strategies for success. Attendees will gain insights into identifying and tar- geting foreign markets, choosing effective market entry strategies, and im- plementing techniques to establish a strong international presence. Featur- ed speaker Michael Schiffhauer, VP of International Trade and Develop- ment, will share his expertise on global trade opportunities. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn actionable steps to expand your sales and grow beyond borders. Visit their website for more details and registration information! February 18, 2025 Lee County Economic Development Office Conference Room 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 2201 Second Street, Suite 600 Fort Myers, FL, 33901 ABC’s of Exporting Roadshow  STUDENT SUCCESS and BUSINESS READINESS PROGRAM Connecting Talent with Opportunity The Student and Small Business Readiness Program connects FGCU students with local small businesses through tailored micro-internships that align with career goals and business needs. This program offers students valuable, real- world experience while providing small businesses with cost-effective project support and fresh ideas. Businesses can post opportunities through the Eagle Career Network, and stu- dents apply via FGCU Career Development Services. The SBDC at FGCU and Career Development Services match students with businesses, fostering mean- ingful collaborations that benefit both parties. This initiative helps students build resumes, explore career paths, and establish professional networks while small businesses gain access to skilled talent and strengthen their ties to the community. It’s a win-win for Southwest Florida’s future workforce and business landscape. Student Success and Business Readiness  THANK YOU, FIRST CITIZENS BANK! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to First Citizens Bank for their generous grant awarded to the Florida SBDC at FGCU. This support plays a vital role in advancing our mission to help small businesses in Southwest Florida launch, grow, and thrive. The grant will directly benefit local entrepreneurs by providing essential resources and services that empower them to succeed and contribute to a stronger regional economy. We are proud to partner with First Citizens Bank, whose commitment to community enrichment aligns with our shared goal of creating lasting, positive change for small businesses. Thank you for investing in the future of Southwest Florida’s business community. Wings up!  Upcoming Workshops: Financial Statements: Capturing their Value, Meaning, and Business Impact Webinar | 02/11 Tuesday 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Register Finding Hidden Cash in Your Business Webinar | 03/11 Tuesday 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Register Contact the SBDC for more information Want to request a topic or give more feedback? Click Here    |
