Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT

Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT Incubators and Accelerators

supporting start-ups with research and resources

Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT is the business and economic development initiative of the University of South Florida (Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV) that provides comprehensive support for companies, including technology and life science startups. By facilitating access to top-tier research, business development programming, faculty, students, supporting organizations, and funding sources, Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT fosters innovation and commercialization.

Located in the Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV Research Park, Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT is at the heart of Tampa’s thriving innovation ecosystem, surrounded by world-class research institutions and industry leaders. Our proximity to Moffitt Cancer Center, Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV Health, and leading university research facilities offers unparalleled opportunities for collaboration in biotechnology, life sciences, and emerging technologies. We also connect businesses with Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV faculty expertise, student interns, and entrepreneurial resources, including the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV, to accelerate business growth. Through these strategic connections, Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT serves as a gateway for companies looking to innovate, scale, and make a lasting impact.

Click below to stay informed about the exciting things happening at Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV through our bi-weekly newsletter, or to apply for the Tampa Bay Technology Incubator or Evolve Accelerator.

Incubators and Accelerators at Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT

TBTI

Tampa Bay Technology Incubator (TBTI)

Evolve

Evolve Accelerator

SII

Student Innovation Incubator (SII)

energizing tampa bay's entrepreneurial ecosystem

As a Tampa Bay Entrepreneurial Support Organization (ESO), Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV Connect:

  • Drives economic development through several programs including the Tampa Bay Technology Incubator (TBTI) and its Evolve Accelerator, and the Student Innovation Incubator (SII).

  • Unites technology and talent with businesses throughout the greater Tampa Bay region, providing access to top-tier research, faculty, students, inventors, local organizations, economic development councils, supporting industry and capital funding sources

  • Facilitates the needs of Tampa Bay's technology and bio/life sciences entrepreneurs throughout the business life cycle by providing professional amenities and resources for successful business development and technology commercialization
coworking space

Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT Work & Meeting Spaces for usf incubator companies

Co-Working Space

Located on the first floor of Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT, the co-working space features a selection of versatile work stations for incubator companies. This space is professional and comfortable — great for those looking to get out of the office and/or collaborate in large groups.

Boardrooms

Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT houses four different boardrooms. Between them, significant flexibility is provided in the level and size of the meetings that can be accommodated. Notably, the Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT Boardroom is designed for executive level meetings and presentations. It has the capability to comfortably seat 15 to 20 people. The room is also equipped with:

  • Oval shaped conference table and chairs
  • LCD projection equipment, conference phone and easel
  • Food service credenza and adjoining coffee bar

Mentoring Room

Providing relative soundproofing and privacy, these rooms create an environment where mentors can best assist incubated companies. Rooms include a round table and three chairs.

Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT OFFICES AND LABS

Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT offers state-of-the-art office spaces and specialized laboratory facilities designed to support high-growth technology and life science startups. Located within the Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV Research Park, these spaces provide entrepreneurs with the infrastructure and resources needed to accelerate innovation and business development.

Office Spaces

  • Fully furnished private and semi-private offices
  • High-speed internet and secure network access
  • 24/7 building access with keycard security
  • Flexible lease terms for early-stage companies
  • Access to conference rooms, coworking areas, and meeting spaces
  • Proximity to university resources, faculty, and research collaborators

Lab Facilities

  • Wet Labs – Equipped for biotech, life sciences, and chemical research
  • Dry Labs – Designed for engineering, computing, and prototyping
  • Shared Lab Equipment – Access to autoclaves, fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, and specialized instrumentation
  • Secure and Controlled Environment – Compliance with industry standards for R&D and testing

Tenants of Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV CONNECT also benefit from a dynamic community of innovators, networking opportunities, mentorship, and access to funding and commercialization support.