Chamber Buzz weekly news & updates
June 8, 2021 | Issue #181
Putting Our Members First
A Message From the CEO/President
Small business is at the heart of our community and the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce! Sarasota would not be what it is today without the contributions of countless trailblazing entrepreneurs who had the courage and fortitude to go into business- in many cases putting their own capital and net worth on the line. Not only do small businesses meet our community’s need for a vast array of goods and services, but they are also one of the largest contributors to private sector job growth here in the Sarasota region and across the United States as a whole. Sarasota also continues to be ranked on a national realm as one of the best places to start and own a business.

The cumulative impact of small businesses on our Chamber of Commerce is immense. More than 80 percent of our membership has less than 20 employees; a full 90 percent have staffs of 50 or less. So, it is fitting that our Chamber honors these extraordinary entrepreneurs and salutes all small businesses, through our annual Frank G. Berlin Sr., Small Business Awards.

To read the full article, click here.
Young Professional of the Year Award Finalists!
We are excited to announce our three finalists for the Young Professional of the Year Award, presented by Kerkering, Barberio & Co.! The purpose of the Young Professional of the Year award is to recognize individuals age 40 and younger in Sarasota who have demonstrated outstanding leadership personally, professionally, and in our community.

The judges had a tough time scoring the nominees' responses and picking their favorite. We are so proud of each individual who was nominated and makes an impact in our community.

Congratulations to our three finalists

Jade Davis
Ross Johnston
Lauren Tominelli

The winner of the Young Professional of the Year Award will be presented LIVE at the annual YP Summit on July 23, 2021.
Read More From Our CEO
Celebrate With Us

Congratulations to the finalists in each category!

To see a full list of finalists, click here.

In its 31st year, the Frank G. Berlin Sr. Foundation Small Business Awards recognizes member businesses with locally owned and operated businesses in eight categories, including a new Woman Entrepreneur Award. Named in honor of the late Frank G. Berlin, Sr., whose legacy in the community and untiring support of The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce epitomized the hopes and dreams of contemporary business entrepreneurs.

Winners will be announced LIVE at the event!
Presented by:
Upcoming Events: Meeting You Where You Are
Your Chamber is meeting you where you’re at. We are offering our members both
in-person events with safety protocols in place as well as virtual events held on Zoom. Check out the upcoming events below, or for the full Chamber Event Calendar visit sarasotachamber.com for more information. 
This event is SOLD OUT! Please contact Kelly Monti to be placed on a waiting list.
Hungry for new business?  Leverage your lunch with the power of business connections and referrals at our in-person Power Hour Lunch.  Each attendee has the opportunity to introduce themselves and give a short “elevator speech” about their business. 
Pre-registration is required. Let's network and have lunch together!
Members - $24
Non-Members - $39
Sponsored by:
Rise and shine!  Meet us at Good Morning, Sarasota breakfast event at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe on their rooftop terrace atop the Binz Building.

We welcome you to enjoy a light breakfast, coffee/juice, and door prizes in a laid-back atmosphere perfect for meeting your next customer or client. Held bi-monthly at various locations throughout Greater Sarasota.

This is an event that you won't want to miss!
Members - Complimentary
Non-Members - $20
The voice of business - creating bold opportunities and solutions for our community.