Pasco EDCSMARTstart to Host Sixth Annual GROW Pasco Event for Entrepreneurs
February 17, 2026
The lunch session will feature a keynote presentation by Taylor Doe, a TEDx speaker, thought leader, and entrepreneur.
PASCO COUNTY, FLORIDA (February 17, 2026) — Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) is hosting the 6th Annual GROW Pasco event through its SMARTstart program on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center in San Antonio, Florida. This conference-style event, presented by Suncoast Credit Union, brings together the Pasco County business community to network and learn ways to help their businesses grow and thrive. There are 15 breakout sessions led by over 30 business professionals where the speakers will be covering topics on areas such as artificial intelligence, funding options, marketing, and valuable community resources for businesses.
“GROW Pasco is a must attend event for all entrepreneurs. The wealth of information gained from the event is invaluable to business owners,” shared Beth Galic, Bay Area Manufacturers Association and 2025 GROW Pasco Attendee.
The Pasco EDC SMARTstart entrepreneurship program, supported by Penny for Pasco, offers a comprehensive and innovative suite of resources designed to help growing businesses achieve long-term success. The program delivers support in key areas including access to funding, education, guidance, collaboration, and workspace. SMARTstart currently serves 54 incubator members, representing a diverse range of industries—from food-based businesses operating out of the East Pasco Incubator Kitchen in Dade City to high-tech companies headquartered at SMARTstart at the Grove in Wesley Chapel. All members also have access to three Entrepreneur Centers located throughout Pasco County, ensuring flexible support options tailored to their unique business needs.
“What makes GROW Pasco truly special is the incredible cross-section of entrepreneurial journeys in one place: from those just starting out, to successful operators returning year after year, and everyone in between,” shared Dan Mitchell, EDP, Assistant Vice President, Entrepreneurship. “They inspire, lift each other up, and make powerful connections - much like the 'And Then Moments' Taylor Doe will explore in his keynote, where one introduction or opportunity can change everything.”
The lunch session will feature a keynote presentation by Taylor Doe, a former TEDx speaker, thought-leader, and entrepreneur who is deeply invested in community development, youth mentorship and fostering economic mobility for others. Doe’s presentation will explore the overlooked moments behind entrepreneurial success, showing how founders start, grow, and scale while leveraging relationships, resources, and experiences to create opportunity and build a stronger ecosystem.
“Through programs like SMARTstart and events like GROW Pasco, we’re investing directly in the people that are innovators and who help drive our economy,” stated Pasco County Commission Chair Jack Mariano. “Every new idea and business launched contributes to a stronger, more resilient Pasco County.”
To learn more about the GROW Pasco sessions and to register, visit www.pascoedc.com/events/details/grow-pasco. The cost is $65 per person and includes breakfast, a keynote lunch presentation, and access to various breakout session opportunities. Sponsorship opportunities are also available which offer access to exhibit at the event.
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About Pasco Economic Development Council
The Pasco Economic Development Council is committed to developing Florida's most competitive climate for business growth by providing businesses, that seek to start, move, or grow in the North Tampa Bay area, a comprehensive suite of programs that can help them to reach their full economic potential. Since 1987, Pasco EDC has fostered a strong partnership funded by corporate and public investors focused on the economic vitality of Pasco County. Discover more at www.pascoedc.com.