Idea Builders: Business Owners & Entrepreneurs Accelerator

FREE PARKING is located across Palm Ave between the ECC and the Fire Department!

A 3-Part Hands-On Accelerator + Showcase & Networking Night

Have a business idea? Already started something but not sure what to do next?
This 3-part accelerator is designed to help entrepreneurs get clearer, test what makes sense, and keep moving forward with practical support from the Community Dreams Foundation team.
You’ll work directly on your own business, strengthen your direction, test assumptions, and build a clearer path forward.

Important Dates

October 7
October 21
November 4
November 19: Showcase & Networking Night, separate registration

What You’ll Work On

• Clarifying your customer and business direction
• Strengthening your value proposition
• Testing assumptions and validating demand
• Prioritizing next steps
• Building a practical 90-day execution plan
• Connecting with CDF for continued support

This is not just a lecture series. You’ll be actively working on your business throughout the cohort.

This Is For You If…

• You have an idea but aren’t sure where to start
• You’ve started a business and feel stuck
• You’re unsure whether customers want what you’re building
• You need clearer direction and practical support
• You’re ready to work on the business, not just listen to another presentation

You don’t need a finished business plan or polished pitch deck.
Bring the idea, the business, or the problem you’re trying to solve. We’ll help you work through what comes next.

November 19: Showcase & Networking Night

The accelerator is followed by a larger community event with:

• Participant business showcases
• Panel conversations
• Networking
• Community connections
• Opportunities to share what you’re building

Selected participants will have the opportunity to present their progress and business ideas.

The November 19 event will have a separate registration page. Keep an eye out for the next CDF/ECC listing.

How CDF Supports You

Participants who want additional help can connect with the CDF team for a discovery conversation, identify what support their business needs, and continue working with the team as their project develops.

What to Bring

Bring your business idea, existing business, questions, and whatever you’re currently working through.
A laptop or notebook may be helpful.
Worksheets and light refreshments will be provided.

This is part of a four-event business-building series. Each session stands on its own, so participants are welcome to attend one event or join us for the full series. Those who continue through the series will have the opportunity to build on their progress from session to session.

Entrepreneur Collaborative Center
2101 E Palm Ave, Tampa, FL 33605