From Foundation to Scale: A Look at Embarc Collective’s 2024 Impact & What’s Ahead

As I reflect on my first months as CEO at Embarc Collective, I’m continually inspired by the bold ideas and relentless drive that define our community of startup builders.

The numbers in our 2024 Impact Report tell a remarkable story: a 96% five-year startup survival rate—nearly double the national average—with our members creating 977 new jobs and raising over $565 million in funding.

This success isn’t accidental.

It’s the result of a shared commitment to growth and the strong foundation laid by our founding CEO, Lakshmi Shenoy.

Under her leadership, Embarc Collective delivered over 9,200+ hours of one-on-one coaching, hosted 400+ targeted programming sessions, and supported 251+ companies.

These founders haven’t just created jobs; they’ve sparked a ripple effect that continues to fuel Florida’s startup ecosystem.

But survival isn’t enough. As we look to the future, our vision extends beyond simply helping startups endure—we’re focused on helping them thrive and scale in ways that transform our region’s economic landscape.

I’m hyper-focused on these three key elements that will define our path forward:

First, we’re deepening our coaching expertise and expanding our bench of startup veterans to support companies at every stage—from ideation through rapid growth and potential exits.

Second, we’re strengthening Tampa Bay’s position as Florida’s central landing zone for tech innovation. With 20,000+ visitors and 200+ public educational events annually, we’re creating the gravitational pull that attracts talent, investment, and opportunities to our region.

Finally, we’re fostering meaningful connections that transcend our physical space. We’re doubling down on our relationships with corporate partners. Boosting our investment in programming, like our National Investor Fly-In, Builder Series, and partnerships with organizations like the Genspiration Foundation, to create pathways that connect our ecosystem to resources across the country.

The startup journey is inherently challenging, but it doesn’t have to be lonely.

At Embarc Collective, we’re building a community where founders can access the expertise, network, and support needed to turn bold visions into thriving companies.

As Tampa Bay continues to grow as a vibrant tech hub, Embarc Collective will remain at the center, enabling innovative founders to build companies that create value, generate opportunities, and shape our region’s future for decades to come.

The foundation has been laid. Now, together, we build.

– Tim 

Access Embarc Collective’s 2024 Impact Report here.