Venture Miami, the City of Miami’s economic development office, is committed to creating opportunities that fuel economic growth. At the heart of its mission is positioning Miami as a vibrant hub of innovation and technological advancement within the epicenter of South Florida’s rapid growth as one of the fastest-growing global tech hubs.
From supporting entrepreneurs through accelerator programs to fostering a next-gen workforce via collaborations with educational institutions, Venture Miami ensures individuals are prepared with the skills needed to thrive. Venture Miami also facilitates connections between talent and tech companies, providing career advancement opportunities for all. By promoting inclusive technology through community engagement, Venture Miami fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment for Miami residents.
Venture Miami offers concierge services to assist founders, companies, and funders considering relocating to Miami. From navigating the local landscape to connecting with key stakeholders, the team ensures a seamless transition into the vibrant Miami ecosystem.
In essence, Venture Miami catalyzes transformation, drives economic prosperity, and fosters innovation and collaboration throughout Miami.
Investing in Miami’s Future: Venture Miami Scholarship Fund
Established in early 2021 by Mayor Francis Suarez, the Venture Miami Scholarship Fund embodies its commitment to building a “Miami Forever” and a “Miami For Everyone.” This initiative provides tuition support for the City of Miami residents who are Pell Grant eligible and pursuing a STEM degree with Florida International University, Florida Memorial University, Miami-Dade College, and the University of Miami. The fund ensures financial barriers don’t hinder access to quality education. With over 95 recipients to date, the fund has helped students pursue careers in high-demand fields, contributing to Miami’s economic growth.
By cultivating a next-gen workforce equipped with the necessary skills, Venture Miami is integral to positioning Miami as a leading global tech hub, where innovation and opportunity thrive.
Venture Miami Tech Hiring Fair: Bridging Talent and Opportunity
Since 2021, Venture Miami has been the driving force behind five hiring fairs, each serving as a catalyst for economic activity and talent acquisition within the city’s burgeoning tech ecosystem. These events have played a pivotal role in connecting local talent with high-paying jobs, fueling continued growth and innovation in Miami.
Dade College has served as the venue and a crucial partner in executing these events, while Refresh Miami has played an instrumental role in spreading the word and ensuring robust community engagement.
By facilitating these connections, Venture Miami addresses the demand for skilled talent and fosters a thriving ecosystem where innovation thrives and opportunities abound. Through its ongoing commitment to hosting these impactful events, Venture Miami plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Miami’s tech landscape, ensuring that the city remains a premier destination for top talent and leading companies.
Built-in Miami Startup Program: Building the Future of Miami Tech
The Venture Miami Built in Miami Startup Program is an intensive 18-week initiative designed to fast-track Miami entrepreneurs with ideas into promising startups. This program helps entrepreneurs transform their startup ideas into investment-ready ventures poised for exponential growth. Built-in Miami has become a cornerstone of its efforts to nurture the local tech ecosystem by providing a structured environment, mentorship, and resource access.
Last year, 100 startup founders benefited from the program. This year, the impact has grown significantly, with the program supporting 292 participants and 254 startups, all guided by 15 experienced mentors. This initiative’s influence is evident in its participants’ significant achievements. About 28% of the startups have expanded their teams, reflecting the program’s role in fostering job creation and business growth. Furthermore, 36% of these startups have open positions, signaling ongoing expansion and the demand for talent within the ecosystem.
Moreover, its big tech partners have come together to offer the cohorts resources like AWS cloud credits and mentorship, enhancing the program’s effectiveness in providing valuable support to budding entrepreneurs.
Financially, the program has catalyzed securing investment, with 18 startups successfully obtaining funding. Additionally, 30 startups have begun generating revenue, underscoring the program’s effectiveness in attracting investment and fostering financial sustainability. These successes highlight Built-in Miami’s critical role in transforming innovative ideas into thriving businesses, contributing to Miami’s dynamic and rapidly growing tech landscape.
Miami Tech Month Kick-Off: Igniting a City wide Celebration of Innovation
The Miami Tech Month kickoff event, held at City Hall and spearheaded by Venture Miami and Mayor Francis Suarez, catalyzes a month-long celebration of innovation. By bringing together industry leaders, the event fosters a sense of pride and collaboration within Miami’s tech community. At the historic City Hall, the kickoff event symbolizes Venture Miami’s unwavering commitment to tech advancement and the city’s official endorsement of the tech sector.
Leading the Way in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM):
To create a scalable frame work for implementing vertiport siting and eVTOL operations, Venture Miami spearheaded an Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Summit in January 2024 at Miami City Hall. With the Advanced Air Mobility Interagency Working Group as its federal partner, the summit convened regional stakeholders from the public and private sectors. Cities are at the forefront of implementing AAM operations, especially regarding governance and economic strategies. By actively engaging in the development and oversight of AAM, local authorities ensure these innovativetechnologies benefit communities economically andlogistically.
Following the successful summit, the City, represented by Venture Miami, was invited to participate on a community planning panel during an AAM conference in Fort Worth, TX, hosted by the Federal Aviation Administration’s Southwest Regional Office and the North Central Texas Council of Governments.
The AAM action plan comprises four pillars:
Skilled Workforce Development: Collaborative efforts with educational institutions and industry partners will equip residents with the necessary skills for a next-gen workforce.
Infrastructure Development: Expanding high-speed internet, supporting sustainable transportation solutions, and developing infrastructure for autonomous vehicles and drones are integral parts of the plan.
National AAM Challenge – Vertiport Design: Considerations for standalone vertiports or vertistops (vertiports with limited services) will include charging, cooling, maintenance, security, ground safety, and parking per federal regulations, where applicable.
National AAM Challenge – Airspace Integration: This challenge will mandate a detailed and regional airspace integration plan outlining howe VTOLs will safely and efficiently coexist with existing airspace users and potential vertiports within South Florida.
Meet the Team:
Venture Miami’s dedicated team is at the helm of the City’s transformative journey.
Keith Carswell, Chief Economic Development Officer – City of Miami/Venture Miami – Oversees the Office of Venture Miami and serves as the City’s keystone for economic development efforts.
Erick Gavin, Executive Director – Manages the strategic direction and operations of Venture Miami.
Kelly Montoya, Head of Partnerships – Builds and nurtures relationships with key stakeholders and partners.
Burhan Sebin, Head of Research and Data Analytics – Drives data-driven decision-making and insights for Venture Miami.
Nicola Demko, Business Development and Recruitment – Focuses on business development and recruiting top talent to Miami’s tech ecosystem.
Shellande “Shay” Janvier – Provides essential administrative support to ensure the smooth operation of the team.
In conclusion, Venture Miami’s strategic initiatives, partnerships, and community engagement have been instrumental in Miami’s rise as a regional hub for tech and innovation. As it looks to the future, its focus remains steadfast: to propel economic growth, enrich the lives of Miamians, and establish Miami’s position as a global leader in tech and innovation.
