The Tampa Bay Chamber recently marked the graduation of the Tampa Bay Business Accelerator (TBBA) Class of 2025. Over the past two years, members of this group have worked to grow their businesses and build professional networks, contributing to economic growth in the Tampa Bay area.
Since TBBA began, participating companies have generated more than $105 million in gross sales and created over 905 new jobs through the first quarter of 2025. This year’s program included two ribbon-cutting ceremonies for Cohort ’25, representing milestones in business development and local investment.
During the event, Sherrel Sampson, a TBBA alumna and founder and CEO, delivered keynote remarks focused on purposeful business growth. Sampson said, “Being part of the TBBA community is about more than business growth—it’s about connection, collaboration, and building a network that lifts everyone up. Watching this class of entrepreneurs harness their talent and create real impact for Tampa Bay has been truly inspiring.”
Tampa Bay Chamber Chair Edwin Narain also spoke at the ceremony. He stated, “Watching Cohort ’25 grow, collaborate, and achieve so much over two years is a true testament to the strength of Tampa Bay’s entrepreneurial community.”
Graduation awards were presented by Cohort Chair during the celebration. The Chamber expressed gratitude toward mentors, leadership council members, subject matter experts, sponsors, community partners, and grantors who supported this year’s cohort.
The TBBA aims to help build resilient businesses while fostering connections within the region’s business community.
