Tony DiBenedetto, chief executive officer of Appspace and founder of the nonprofit Think Big for Kids, will receive the prestigious Horatio Alger Award, in April. Born to young parents, DiBenedetto lived with his grandparents during his early years. They struggled, financially, to care for him. After his grandmother’s passing, he became independent, relying on friends … Read more
Advantive, a provider of specialized enterprise software, has acquired Commerce Vision, a digital commerce platform, based in Australia and New Zealand. The acquisition expands Advantive’s international reach and strengthens its business-to-business e-commerce capabilities. Commerce Vision, headquartered in Brisbane, Australia, has provided B2B commerce services since 2001, serving industries including automotive, food service, medical and more. … Read more
Amorino Gelato, an international gelato chain, founded in Paris, is set to open a location in St. Petersburg’s EDGE District, at 1246 Central Ave. The shop will occupy more than 1,800 square feet on the ground floor of the newly renovated building, with views of a 7,000-square-foot communal garden. It will join Bosphorus Turkish Cuisine, … Read more
Chris Moyer, former founder, president and chief executive officer of SME Solutions Group, has officially begun his term as chair of the CEO Council of Tampa Bay. With a track record of fostering innovation and driving growth, Moyer is now applying his leadership to the region’s exclusive network of CEOs, entrepreneurs and executive leaders. “I … Read more
After nearly 24 years of hosting Florida This Week, Rob Lorei is stepping into a new role at WEDU. Lorei, who has led the public affairs program since its inception, reflected on his tenure, saying, “I’ve had the good fortune of hosting every week. We’ve brought together a group of panelists like no other, featuring … Read more
The Save The Kids Foundation’s Gatsby Gala brought together philanthropists, industry leaders and advocates to support pediatric cancer research. The event’s highlight was the recognition of Dr. Mildred Duncan, a researcher at the University of South Florida, who received the Disruptor of the Year Award for her work in developing treatments for Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid … Read more
Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful has named Kristina Moreta as its executive director. Moreta, a longtime advocate for environmental sustainability, steps into the role with experience in leadership, fundraising and environmental education. She previously served as the organization’s development director, where she played a key role in securing funding for programs and strengthening community partnerships. “Keep … Read more
Tomlin St Cyr Real Estate Services is undergoing a leadership transition as Mary Ann Porter steps down from her role as managing broker. Porter, the company’s first employee, has been a key figure in its growth since its founding, in 2015. Porter, whose real estate career spans nearly four decades, has overseen the sale of … Read more
Entrepreneurs, investors and business leaders will convene at the Building Success Summit, set for April 14-16, 2025, at Raymond James Stadium. The three-day event will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions and networking opportunities aimed at helping business owners grow and secure capital. The summit will include sessions dedicated to fundraising, business expansion and investment strategies. … Read more
One Stop Cares, a nonprofit focused on providing support services to affordable housing communities, has appointed Audrey Abraham as its new executive director. Abraham has worked with One Stop Housing, the nonprofit’s affiliated housing development company, for more than 20 years. She began her career as a property manager, before advancing to regional manager. In … Read more
