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The City of Miami Beach Economic Development Department is pleased to provide you with this monthly business newsletter that includes the latest information and resources available for our business community.
Was this forwarded to you? Subscribe today to receive your own copy by clicking here.
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Miami Beach Convention Center Investing in Miami Beach & Our Planet
In honor of Earth Month, learn about how the Miami Beach Convention Center is investing in the venue and planet with the latest sustainability efforts. Earth month takes place during April every year to raise environmental awareness and create consciousness around the issues that affect mother nature.
Click here to read more.
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Innovation & Inclusion: Black Tech Entrepreneurs Take Center Stage at eMerge Americas Celebrate: A DEI Series Event
On February 28th, the City of Miami Beach partnered with eMerge Americas to host a vibrant and inspiring Black History Month event, "eMerge Americas Celebrate: A DEI Series Event." Held at Grown, a new Miami Beach restaurant owned by Shannon Allen, the event showcased the city's commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth within the tech industry, by giving special focus on supporting Black entrepreneurs. Diverse business owners, tech enthusiasts, and investors gathered to network, share ideas, and collaborate on future ventures.
Moderated by Miami Beach Assistant City Manager and Director for the Economic Development Department, Rickelle Williams emphasized the significance of collaboration, sharing, "the partnership between the City of Miami Beach and eMerge Americas is crucial to creating a thriving and inclusive tech ecosystem. By supporting Black entrepreneurs, encouraging their voices, and addressing their issues, we are safeguard the health and vitality of the city's diverse ecosystem. "
The event highlighted the importance of inclusion and diversity in the tech industry and served as an essential platform for business owners and entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and start and grow their businesses in the City of Miami Beach. The event featured an esteemed panel of experts, including Samella Watson, founder of BLCK (Block), Chandler Malone, CEO of Bootup, and Kimberly Marshall, a renowned angel investor. Samella Watson shared her journey as a successful entrepreneur and the challenges she overcame in the blockchain space. Chandler Malone shed light on how his company empowers underrepresented founders to launch and scale their startups. Finally, Kimberly Marshall offered valuable advice on securing funding and navigating the investment landscape for minority-owned businesses. Together, these panelists demonstrated the breadth of talent and innovation within the Black entrepreneurial community, inspiring attendees to pursue their own dreams in the tech industry.
For more information about upcoming eMerge America events, please visit here.
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SXSW Conference: A Catalyst for Miami Beach Business Growth
The Economic Development Department team attended the South by Southwest (SXSW) Conference and Festivals in Austin, Texas, underscoring the City's commitment to fostering a supportive, innovative environment for local businesses. SXSW offers valuable insights into the latest trends in business and entrepreneurship, health and med-tech, and tech industry and enterprise, empowering the City to promote Miami Beach as a business destination and help businesses stay competitive in the global market.
Participation in the conference provided unparalleled access to industry developments, networking opportunities with the tech community, venture capitalist and financial services professionals, knowledge sharing through workshops and panels, and talent attraction by showcasing Miami Beach's thriving business community. By incorporating insights from SXSW, the department can create a prosperous, forward-thinking economy that benefits all Miami Beach residents and entrepreneurs, while enhancing the city's ability to attract new and emerging startups, support local businesses, and drive economic growth and innovation.
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Miami-Dade Business Navigator
Lenders Roundtable & Access to Capital
April 4, 2023
Why do some businesses easily obtain loans while others don't? The answer starts with you, the business owner. Learn how to make your business loan-worthy & receive key insights from a panel of access to capital providers & learn the steps to creating a bankable business.
Click here to register for this free event.
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Accounting Made Easy for You (An Introduction to Accounting)
April 18, 2023
The workshop will cover in greater detail the basic accounting documents that every micro-business will need to operate effectively with the use of simple examples and a case study. Participants will learn about the basic financial documents that all small businesses should use and its importance. The workshop will focus on documents such as:
- An Income Statement
- A Cash Flow Statement
- A Balance Sheet
- A Profit & Loss Statement
Click here to register for this free event.
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Miami Beach Youth Job Fair
April 21, 2023
In partnership with the City of Mami Beach and Miami Beach Senior High School, Career Source South Florida would like to invite you to participate at a Youth Hiring Event!
If you are a Miami-Dade County registered business in the zip codes of 33139, 33140, 33141, that currently has open employment opportunities within your organization and are interested in participating in this job fair, you must register here.
Upon completion of registering your business, please email your employer participation confirmation to:
Jofre Cruz - jofre.cruz@careersourcesfl.com
Diana Valdivia - diana.valdivia@careersourcesfl.com
Businesses must be completely registered by Monday, April 10, 2023, to participate.
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GMCVB Tourism Business Enhancement Presents: 10 Marketing Strategies to Help Accelerate Your Small Business
April 25, 2023
Join the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau's Multicultural Tourism & Development department for this deep-dive marketing workshop which will outline and provide key strategies for your business to grow and thrive. Good marketing helps customers understand why your product or service is better, helps you reach your audience, boosts your customer base, and ultimately increases your bottom line.
By applying these 10 tactical strategies to your small business practice, including the introduction of trending new-age technology resources, participating businesses can enhance their overall marketing goals.
Click here to learn more and to register.
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The Fresh Start Business Grant
The U.S. Black Chambers and Grubhub partner to provide grants to Black-owned restaurants, made possible by the Grubhub Community Fund. The USBC Restaurant Grant Program helps restaurants receive funding to seize business opportunities and address current challenges. The program will offer over $500,000 in grants to Black-owned restaurants and culinary-based businesses.
Click here to apply.
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The Amber Grant - $10,000 Grant for Women Business Owners
WomensNet founded the “Amber Grant” in 1998. The grant was set up with one goal in mind: to honor the memory of a very special young woman, Amber Wigdahl, who died at just 19 years old — before realizing her business dreams.
Today, WomensNet carries on that tradition, proudly giving away at least $30,000 every month in Amber Grant money. In recognition of the diversity of businesses owned by women, WomensNet has also expanded its grant-giving to include “Marketing Grants,” “Business Category Grants,” as well as two “$25,000 Year End Grants.”
Click here to view grant requirements and to apply.
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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AVAILABLE
Looking for retail space? Consider this North Beach location at 325 71st St or this corner space in the heart of Mid Beach at 761 W 41st St. If South Beach is on your list consider this location at 826 Collins Ave.
To view other available properties, click here.
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Panel Discussion at Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Event Addresses Employment-Based Visa Process and Labor Shortage in Hospitality Industry
On March 23, the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce hosted the joint Tourism & Hospitality Council and Law Council Panel Discussion titled "Immigration Issues You Need to Know to Make Hiring Decisions" at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel. The event addressed the labor crisis in the hospitality industry, complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and provided valuable insights on navigating the complex U.S. immigration landscape to hire critical talent and support.
The legal panel discussion featured Maria V. Romero, Business Immigration Attorney at Gunster, Matias Pesce, CEO of VE Restaurant Group, Isadora Velazquez, Board Certified Immigration attorney at Isa Law PA, and Mutluhan Kucuk, Complex Manager Director at Loews Miami Beach Hotel. Additionally, Ari Goldman, Director of Economic and Innovation Affairs at the Israel Consulate, presented two Israeli tech companies: Como, which provides a platform for businesses to understand their customers and deliver personalized experiences, and Rulrr, an AI-powered digital advertising app for retail stores, helping them to optimize their advertising budget for more effective marketing campaigns.
The Tourism & Hospitality Expo followed the panel discussion and provided attendees with opportunities to explore industry-specific offerings and network. The Tourism & Hospitality Council and Law Council are subdivisions of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, whose mission is to provide networking opportunities, educational programs, and advocacy for local businesses. The Chamber hosts a variety of events throughout the year, offering valuable opportunities for businesses to connect with other professionals, explore new business opportunities, and gain insights on industry trends.
For more information on membership and upcoming events, visit their website here.
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Miami Beach to Launch Commercial Lease Subsidy Program
The City of Miami Beach is launching the Commercial Lease Subsidy Program, a financial assistance program intended to strengthen the commercial character of the Art Deco Cultural District by promoting art and culture and reducing the number of commercial vacancies and grandfathered (legal non-conforming) business establishments that operate prohibited uses. The program is designed to curate desirable business activation along commercial corridors and reduce business activities that are not compatible with the City’s brand.
The three (3) year program offers eligible businesses a waiver of annual business tax receipt (BTR) fees and the reimbursement of monthly expenses related to rent or mortgage payments, certain leasing expenses, and/or real estate taxes (up to $2,500 per month, $20,000 per year, and $60,000 over three (3) years, contingent upon annual budget appropriation, and compliance with program requirements by the participating business).
The program is only available to commercial properties physically located within the geographical boundaries of the Art Deco / MiMo Commercial Character Overlay District, roughly bounded by Ocean Drive to the east, Fifth Street to the south, Washington Avenue to the west, and 23rd Street to the north. (Program boundary map to be provided with application.) Participation is geared to: (1) vacant storefronts, (2) new-to-market businesses promoting art and culture, or (3) existing prohibited businesses that are grandfathered and operate legally with a valid BTR (e.g., certain check cashing stores, pawn/souvenir/t-shirt shops, tobacco/vape dealers, pharmacies, grocery or convenience stores, tattoo parlors, and occult science establishments). The art and culture objective will prioritize new businesses creating immersive and shareable experiences that emphasize customer engagement and leverage onsite activities/events, such as experiential and artisanal retailers or interactive and activity-based spaces.
More information including the application form and program guidelines will be available soon. Questions may be submitted to MBbiz@miamibeachfl.gov.
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Miami Beach Fosters Innovation and Growth Through eMerge Americas 2023 Conference Collaboration
April 20 - 21, 2023
Miami Beach is excited to sponsor and host a booth at eMerge Americas 2023, taking place on April 20-21, 2023, at the Miami Beach Convention Center. This unique event offers business owners the chance to explore new products and services, connect with potential partners and investors, and stay current on industry trends. The city's participation highlights its dedication to supporting the business community and fostering innovation and growth in the region. Miami Beach's Economic Development Department will showcase a range of business incentives, including subsidies, grants, and training programs designed to support business growth.
Join innovators from all corners of the tech industry at eMerge Americas 2023, where you can discover cutting-edge advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) or blockchain, network with investors funding the future of tech, and learn from global entrepreneurs. This event provides an exceptional platform for connecting with like-minded professionals and discovering new business opportunities.
eMerge Americas 2023 is the ideal event for anyone seeking to connect with other professionals, stay up to date with industry trends, and discover new business opportunities. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a tech enthusiast, or simply interested in the world of innovation, this event provides a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge advancements in the industry and network with key players.
If you are looking to start a business or expand or relocate your business and want to connect with industry professionals, gain valuable insights into the city's economic landscape, and discover new business opportunities, visit the Miami Beach booth # 936.
For tickets click here.
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eMerge Americas Earth Day Park & Beach Clean Up
April 22, 2023
Join eMerge Amercias as they bring together the #MiamiTech community to help keep our parks and beach clean while having fun!
This event is supported by BITMAIN, is in partnership with eMerge Americas and is benefiting Blue Scholars Initiative, whose mission is to educate and empower students through hands-on (and virtual) marine science education to foster a connection to the ocean and to launch long-term environmental stewardship.
eMerge Americas will have yoga, family activities, park/beach cleanup, food, music and much more. Bring the whole family and have fun while doing good!
Click here for the Aprill 22, 2023 schedule of events.
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Miami Beach Turtle Fest
Altos Del Mar Park
April 29, 2022
Its Sea Turtle Nesting Season! Join us Saturday, April 20, 2023 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Miami Beach Turtle Fest for a day of fun and celebration as we honor these magnificent creatures and raise awareness about conserving their homes and our environment.
Experience a day filled with family friendly fun and educational activities. Meet sea turtle experts, learn about habitats and migration patterns, and discover ways to help protect future generations. Enjoy delicious food and drinks from local vendors, soak up the sun and beautiful views, participate in a beach cleanup, arts and crafts, game, learn how to positively impact the environment, and share in the celebration of nature and one of the most beloved ocean creatures. See you there!
For more information on Environment & Sustainability events, visit here.
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City of Miami Beach Weekly Meetings
Stay up to date on all of our upcoming meetings. From Commission meetings to committee meetings, please click here for a full list with links to participate.
| | BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS | | |
City of Miami Beach Vacant Storefront Cover Program
The City of Miami Beach relaunched the Vacant Storefront Cover Program in a continued effort to improve the appearance of vacant, street-level commercial buildings and support the lease-up of retail spaces throughout the Miami Beach. Now the City is excited to announce five new designs have been added to the Program catalog.
First unveiled in 2019, this initiative supports property owners, brokers, realtors and property managers by wrapping vacant storefront windows free of charge with one of ten (10) artistic designs preapproved by the City.
Click here to learn more about the program and how to get started. Interested brokers, realtors, property owners and managers should apply here and email the completed application to Mbbiz@miamibeachfl.gov.
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Miami Beach Expedited Plan Review and Permitting Incentive Program
The City of Miami Beach is committed to diversifying the local economy by attracting and retaining companies in targeted industries like, financial services and technology. As part of this effort, the City is also offering an Expedited Plan Review and Permitting Program to incentivize targeted relocations, including expansions and associated development for companies. Click here to review full program guidelines.
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Miami Beach Job Creation Incentive Program
The City of Miami Beach is offering the Job Creation Incentive Program (JCIP), a performance-based incentive adopted by the City Commission. The program aims to strategically attract new financial service companies and technology firms while helping existing businesses expand in Miami Beach to increase the number of high-wage jobs. Click here for more info and application details.
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Miami Beach Film & Production Incentive Program
Making movies and other film projects in Miami Beach has never been easier! A new incentive program brings new guidelines, and fewer restrictions. To review program guidelines and apply, click here.
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How to Apply for a Business Tax Receipt and a Certificate of Use
The choices you make affect your business operations, taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. View what you need to operate a business in Miami Beach here.
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Plastic Free Miami Beach
Plastic comprises up to 97% of marine debris, and its dominance in the environment is explained by its abundance and nearly endless lifecycle. According to a United Nations, over eight million metric tons of plastic are found in our oceans every year, impacting our marine wildlife, fisheries, and tourism, and costing at least $8 billion in damage to marine ecosystems.
Plastic Free Miami Beach (#PlasticFreeMB) is a program that showcases businesses that have taken action to reduce single-use plastics from their establishment, and helps organizations learn about and implement best practices in the area of plastic waste reduction. The 3-tiered voluntary program allows participating businesses to choose the most suitable level which reflects their current plastic reduction practices. The more single-use plastic items that businesses transition away from, the higher the level they can reach.
Register your business at Register your Business | Miami Beach - Rising Above (mbrisingabove.com). Plastic Free Miami Beach businesses - What is Plastic Free MB | Miami Beach - Rising Above (mbrisingabove.com)
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Pop-Up Venue Permit
Pop-up venues are temporary retail spaces that can be used to promote and sell products of all types, ranging from food and beverages, clothing or unique gifts. The concept has the potential for low overhead, low risk and is a great way to introduce yourself to the market, generate buzz, increase sales and extend the reach and exposure of your business. To apply for a City of Miami Beach Pop-Up Venue permit click here.
| | PROCUREMENT OPPORTUNITIES | | |
Looking for Bid Opportunities?
If you would like to be notified of available competitive solicitations released by the City of Miami Beach, you must register your company through Periscope S2G, Supplier-to-Government by clicking here. Registration is easy and will take only a few minutes. Refer to the guide for instructions on how to register and submit an electronic bid here.
| | Become A Registered City of Miami Beach Vendor | | To read more and to register click here. | | Visit MBBIZ.com or contact the Economic Development team here for more information on resources, finding the perfect location(s) for your business expansion or sharing ideas for future topics. | | |
NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE
Missed a prior edition? Check out previous newsletters and business spotlight stories here.
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