6th Annual GROW Pasco

March 19, 2026

Date: Thursday, March 19, 2026

Time: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm

Location: Saint Leo University Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Cir, St. Leo, FL 33576

SMARTstart is hosting the 6th Annual GROW Pasco event to help educate business owners throughout Pasco County and provide an environment to network with like-minded entrepreneurs. Join our entrepreneurial community for 15 breakout sessions led by over 30 business professionals as we explore healthy mindsets to build and thrive.

General Admission: $65 per person
Registration includes breakfast, access to breakout sessions, keynote lunch presentation, and networking with fellow entrepreneurs.

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"And Then Moments" with Taylor Doe

We’ve all seen the highlight reels of entrepreneurs who have made it, but oftentimes, there are seemingly insignificant yet super important details left out of their stories of success. Taylor Doe reveals the untold parts of how founders actually start, grow and scale. Attendees will explore how these overlooked moments shape their work, the barriers many face and the opportunities they have the power to create. Together, we will reflect on the relationships, resources and reps that shaped our own journey and how to unlock those opportunities for others so we can build a stronger, more collaborative ecosystem.

Complete I.T. Service & Solutions

Florida SBDC at University of South Florida Muma College of Business

Spherion Staffing & Recruiting

Event registration, breakfast, and networking

Funding Forum with Michael Anselmo, Brad Owens, Rafael Lohner, and Scott Kelly

A practical panel discussion on raising capital, exploring funding options, lender expectations, and strategies to position your business for successful financing.

Success is a VIBE with E.A. Johnson

Learn the VIBE framework—Vision, Intention, Belief, and Execution—to drive sales momentum, energize teams, and turn business goals into measurable results.

From Hospitality to Human Connection with Tania Marrero Gonzalez

Discover how hospitality principles create meaningful customer experiences. Learn simple, human-centered strategies that build loyalty, strengthen relationships, and elevate your brand.

Community Resources for Entrepreneurs with Robyn Lisak, Hope Kennedy, and Vicki Wiggins

Explore local and regional resources available to entrepreneurs, including funding, mentorship, training, and support organizations designed to help businesses grow.

Top 10 Sales Drivers with Tim Neilan

Uncover the top ten factors that separate thriving businesses from the rest and learn practical ways to increase revenue without adding unnecessary complexity.

Protect, Grow, Thrive with Rosa Trejo Contreras

Learn practical tools to protect your business, improve cash flow, reduce risk, and leverage financing strategies that support confident, sustainable growth.

Technology in Business with Tracy Ingram, Grant Posner, and Yaakov Oranski

Explore how technology solutions streamline operations, improve efficiency, and support smarter decision-making for small and growing businesses.

AI for Business with Ora Tanner

Learn how artificial intelligence can improve productivity, marketing, customer service, and decision-making with real-world applications for small businesses.

Factors that Impact a Loan Decision with Johannys Irizarry

Understand how lenders evaluate loan applications, including credit, cash flow, debt, collateral, and documentation—and learn steps to strengthen approval chances.

Keynote Lunch: And Then Moments with Taylor Doe

Discover how pivotal “and then” moments shape business growth and leadership decisions, and learn how to respond strategically when opportunity or challenge arises.

Wellness for Entrepreneurs with Kate Composto-Lazzarotti, Tracey Kaly, and Dr. Eddie Williams

Learn strategies to support mental, physical, and emotional well-being while managing the demands of entrepreneurship and maintaining long-term performance.

Profit Optimization Made Simple with Joe Abreu

Identify hidden profit leaks and inefficiencies while learning a clear framework to optimize margins, improve cash flow, and strengthen your bottom line.

Train Your Mind to Win with Dor Woolf

Discover how stepping outside comfort zones builds confidence, resilience, and leadership clarity, using lessons from ODT and real-world entrepreneurial success.

Marketing Your Business with Elle Rudisill, Michael Gross, Beth Devine, and Shelly Cassin

Learn practical marketing strategies to attract customers, strengthen your brand, and drive growth using clear messaging and proven outreach techniques.

Networking Activity

Participate in a guided networking experience designed to foster meaningful connections, spark collaboration, and expand your professional relationships.

Build An Exit-Ready Business with Tee Gweena

Learn how to build a business buyers want—one that runs efficiently, scales sustainably, and commands premium value when it’s time to sell.

Closing Session: Elevating Your Entrepreneurial Journey with Dan Mitchell, Pasco EDC

Reflect, connect, and leave inspired—turn insights, strategies, and relationships from the day into action to grow your business and strengthen your entrepreneurial journey.