Celebrating Leadership, Connection, and Community: The Vital Role of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce

For more than a century, the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce has served as a pillar of strength and unity for the business community. Now celebrating 104 years of service, the Chamber continues to evolve, innovate, and elevate its mission to meet the needs of a dynamic, ever-growing city. At the heart of its work lies a clear purpose:

“The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce exists to promote sustainable economic growth and development through leadership, networking, advocacy, and philanthropic initiatives.”

With this mission as its guiding compass, the Chamber supports local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders through three key pillars:

Business to Business: By fostering leadership and networking opportunities, the Chamber creates an ecosystem where businesses can grow through meaningful relationships and strategic connections.
Business to Government: Through proactive advocacy, the Chamber ensures that the voice of Miami Beach’s business community is heard by decision-makers at every level of government.
Business to Community: Rooted in philanthropy, the Chamber’s Education Foundation plays a pivotal role in supporting local schools, scholarships, and workforce development—ensuring the long-term prosperity of the community.

Why Get Involved?

Joining the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce is more than becoming a member of a business organization—it’s a direct investment in the future of Miami Beach. Involvement opens doors to a powerful network of professionals, high-impact programs, and a collective voice that influences policy and shapes the local economy. Whether you’re launching a startup, leading a growing enterprise, or seeking to give back to your community, the Chamber offers tools, platforms, and relationships that make a real difference.

“We are here to build bridges — not just between businesses, between visionaries, changemakers, and community stakeholders, "says Brittnie Bassant, President and CEO of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. "Our goal is to provide the resources and relationships are members need to thrive also contributing to the greater good of Miami Beach."

Signature Events That Celebrate Community

Throughout the year, the Chamber hosts a wide array of events that reflect its commitment to connection, collaboration, and celebration. From industry-specific summits and networking breakfasts to civic forums and educational workshops, every event is designed to provide real value and drive engagement.

One of the most anticipated highlights of the year is right around the corner: The Miami Beach Ball: 99^th Dinner Gala. This hallmark celebration recognizes outstanding leaders and organizations that exemplify excellence, impact, and innovation in our community. With elegance, entertainment, and an inspiring atmosphere, the Miami Beach Ball is not only a tribute to achievement, but also a symbol of the unity and vibrancy that define Miami Beach.

“The Miami Beach Ball is more than a celebration — it's a testament to the people and partnerships that power this incredible city, "says Richard Segal, Chairman of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. "Each year we honor those who shape Miami Beach, and we invite everyone to be part of that story. "

A Legacy of Progress

The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce is not just an organization; it is a movement rooted in purpose, progress, and partnership. For 104 years, it has championed the growth of businesses, empowered community development, and shaped the economic landscape of Miami Beach. Today, it continues to be a catalyst for change, ensuring that the city remains a world-class destination to live, work, and thrive.

To learn more, get involved, or attend the Miami Beach Ball, visit https://www.miamibeachchamber.com/ The future of Miami Beach is bright—and the Chamber is proud to help lead the way.

Building Big from Small — Celebrating Local Success in Miami Beach

Each May, the City of Miami Beach takes time to honor the people and programs that shape our local economy. During National Small Business Week and Economic Development Week, we spotlight the entrepreneurs who make Miami Beach special, as well as the strategic investments that help them thrive.

From boutique retail shops to neighborhood cafes and innovative startups, small businesses make up over 90% of Miami Beach’s commercial landscape. They bring character to our streets, create local jobs, and reflect the diverse spirit of our community. During Small Business Week, we shine a light on the entrepreneurs who take bold risks, serve with passion, and contribute to the vibrant culture that defines our city.

Small Business Week: Honoring the Heart of Our Local Economy

National Small Business Week 2025 will take place from May 4 through May 10, recognizing the vital role small businesses play in fueling the American economy. Organized by the U.S. Small Business Administration, this annual celebration highlights the achievements of entrepreneurs and small business owners across the country, including those supported through SBA programs and partnerships.

In Miami Beach, small businesses make up more than 90 percent of the commercial landscape. They help define the city's character, generate local jobs, and contribute to a resilient and diverse economy. To honor their impact, the City of Miami Beach is marking the week with local programming and resources designed to empower business owners and support long-term growth.

This year, the City launched the Small Business Grant Program, offering direct financial assistance to help eligible businesses offset operational costs, invest in equipment, or strengthen workforce capacity. The program reflects the City’s commitment to making meaningful investments in its entrepreneurial community.

As part of the week’s events, the City will host a Small Business BTR Clinic and Business Concierge Event on Tuesday, May 6, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at City Hall (1700 Convention Center Drive, First Floor Conference Room). This event will serve as a one-stop resource center for local entrepreneurs. Business owners will have the opportunity to receive personalized assistance with obtaining or renewing their Business Tax Receipt and guidance on local and county-level regulatory requirements.

The event will bring together all departments involved in the BTR process at both the City and County levels. Participating City of Miami Beach departments include Planning and Zoning, Building, Finance, and Fire, as well as the Miami-Dade County Building Department, DERM, Water and Sewer, and the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector’s Office. Together, these departments will provide coordinated support to help business owners understand permitting, compliance, and operational requirements.

The City’s Tourism and Culture Department will be on hand to share details about the updated Pop-Up Venue Permit, which now allows pop-ups to operate for up to one year if they plan to transition into permanent businesses. The Public Works Department will also provide information on the Sidewalk Café Program, including how to apply and best practices for activating outdoor dining spaces.

The City of Miami Beach Economic Development Department will be available to share information on business incentive programs, site selection assistance, and its business concierge service, which helps entrepreneurs navigate city processes and connect with local resources. The City’s Procurement Department will also be present to guide businesses through vendor certification and local government contracting opportunities. Additionally, the Office of Emergency Management will offer details on the Business Emergency Response Team (BERT) program, which helps businesses prepare for and respond to emergencies.

Partner organizations will also be on hand to provide valuable support. CareerSource South Florida will offer workforce development resources, including recruitment tools, job placement assistance, and access to training programs. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will share information on federal programs, funding opportunities, and small business resources.

The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce will also participate, offering information on member benefits, networking opportunities, and ways to engage with the local business community.

Small Business Week is more than a recognition of entrepreneurship. It is a coordinated effort to ensure local business owners have the tools, connections, and support they need to succeed in Miami Beach.

Economic Development Week: Investing in a Resilient Future for Miami Beach

Economic Development Week 2025, is May 11 through May 17, and a national observance created by the International Economic Development Council to raise awareness of the work economic development professionals do to support local businesses, strengthen communities, and drive sustainable growth.

In Miami Beach, economic development is more than a concept, it is an active commitment to creating the conditions where businesses can launch, expand, and succeed. This week is an opportunity to spotlight the programs, partnerships, and policies that help fuel the city’s economic engine year-round.

The Economic Development Department leads this effort by supporting business retention and expansion, streamlining permitting and licensing through its Business Concierge Program, and offering financial tools to reduce barriers and encourage private investment. Current programs include the Commercial Lease Subsidy Program, Facade Improvement Grant, Job Creation Incentive Program, and Expedited Plan Review Program, all designed to support business growth, improve commercial corridors, and attract industry investment.

Economic Development Week also serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration. The City works closely with partners at the local, county, and regional levels to align resources, remove roadblocks, and ensure business owners and entrepreneurs have access to the support they need to thrive.

As we celebrate Economic Development Week, we reaffirm the City’s commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking business environment. One where ideas become enterprises, and enterprises build stronger communities.

This Month in Miami Beach: The Business of Preservation Begins (May 14, 1979)

On May 14, 1979, the Miami Beach Art Deco Historic District was officially listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places, marking a major milestone not just for the city, but for architectural preservation nationwide. What made the designation so special? It was the first district composed primarily of twentieth-century architecture, largely constructed in the 1930s and 1940s, to receive this national recognition.

Characterized by pastel colors, porthole windows, and sleek, geometric lines, Miami Beach’s Art Deco buildings offer more than just vintage charm; they tell a story of resilience, reinvention, and iconic style. The designation helped save many of these structures from demolition and cemented Miami Beach as a global capital of design.

The moment also triggered an economic transformation.

As the buildings were restored and reimagined, the Art Deco District became a magnet for investment and tourism. Developers saw opportunity in the preservation wave and began reviving once-fading hotels into stylish, sought-after destinations. By the late 1980s and early 1990s, visionaries like Tony Goldman had helped turn South Beach into a cultural and commercial hotspot. Celebrities moved in, major events took root, and the district’s neon glow became one of the most recognized skylines in the world.

By 2023, Greater Miami and Miami Beach welcomed over 27.2 million visitors, generating an estimated $21.1 billion in spending. Tourism contributed nearly $30 billion in overall economic impact and over $19 billion in gross domestic product, representing 9% of Miami-Dade County’s total GDP. The industry supported more than 200,000 jobs, driving $11 billion in wages across the county.

Today, the Art Deco District continues to draw visitors from around the world and remains a cornerstone of the city’s cultural and economic identity. Not bad for buildings that were once considered too new to be historic.

This Month in Miami Beach: Opening of The Bass Museum of Art (April 7, 1964)

On April 7, 1964, Miami Beach celebrated the grand opening of The Bass Museum of Art, a milestone marking the establishment of the first municipally operated art museum in South Florida. Founded with the generous donation of more than 500 works by collectors John and Johanna Bass, the museum has since blossomed into a cornerstone of cultural enrichment and artistic expression for both residents and visitors.

The Bass Museum, located in the historic Art Deco district, initially showcased European Renaissance and Baroque art, but has since evolved to feature contemporary pieces, reflecting Miami Beach's dynamic and diverse identity. The museum continues to host innovative exhibitions, educational programs, and community events.

This month, we celebrate over half a century of The Bass Museum’s ongoing contribution to the artistic landscape of Miami Beach, a legacy that continues to inspire creativity and appreciation for the arts. Visitors can explore the museum's stunning architecture and curated collections, capturing the vibrant spirit of Miami Beach.

Miami Beach Shines at eMerge Americas 2025 Tech Conference

The expo hall at eMerge Americas 2025 bustled with activity as thousands of attendees explored cutting-edge technology exhibits. Held on March 27–28 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, this year’s eMerge conference drew a record crowd of over 20,000 attendees from 60+ countries, the largest turnout in the event’s history. The two-day gathering showcased South Florida’s growing stature as a global tech hub, bringing together innovators, investors, and business leaders to exchange ideas and forge new partnerships. Amid the excitement, the City of Miami Beach played a prominent role, using the conference to promote its forward-thinking, business-friendly climate and commitment to innovation.

Star-Studded Keynotes Inspire Attendees

The eMerge Americas 2025 main stage featured an array of high-profile speakers who shared insights and inspiration with the audience. Keynote highlights included:

Daymond John – The Shark Tank investor and FUBU founder kicked off Day 1 with an engaging conversation about entrepreneurship and perseverance
Dave Portnoy – The founder of Barstool Sports discussed his journey building a digital media empire, in a fireside chat with Miami Mayor Francis Suarez that offered candid lessons on risk-taking and resilience.
Palmer Luckey – The Oculus VR wunderkind turned defense tech entrepreneur (founder of Anduril Industries) delivered a keynote on the future of dual-use technology and innovation in national defense
Armando “Pitbull” Pérez – The Grammy-winning artist-turned-entrepreneur returned to eMerge, energizing the crowd with insights on how emerging digital technologies are fueling new opportunities in business and education

These visionary talks – alongside other notable speakers like tech pioneer Martine Rothblatt and celebrity chef-entrepreneur Jacques Torres – sparked excitement and “big idea” conversations throughout the conference halls.

Major Announcement: Building South Florida’s Next-Gen Economy

One of the biggest headlines from eMerge 2025 came courtesy of Stephen Ross, the billionaire developer and Miami Dolphins owner. Ross used the eMerge stage to unveil a new initiative aimed at attracting more companies and investors to South Florida. In a Friday keynote, he announced a strategic partnership (alongside eMerge Americas co-founder Melissa Medina and Florida Council of 100 CEO Michael Simas) designed to position Florida as a prime destination for global business expansion

The plan will support fast-growing industries – including finance and fintech, health care and medical technology, aerospace and logistics, and clean technology – that are key to the region’s future

Ross noted that South Florida is “already poised to become an innovation hub,” and emphasized the importance of linking local resources to foster growth. “With initiatives like this, we can link educational institutions, entrepreneurial programs, and sources of capital to create a new environment for American businesses,” Ross said during his remarks

This bold commitment, backed by Ross’s Related Companies and partners, underscores the region’s momentum and the public-private collaboration driving South Florida’s next-generation economy.

Miami Beach Showcases Its Tech-Friendly Climate

Throughout eMerge Americas, Miami Beach’s presence was strongly felt on the expo floor. The city’s Economic Development and Information Technology departments jointly hosted a booth showcasing Miami Beach’s tech-friendly business climate, its range of economic development incentives, and its unwavering commitment to innovation. City representatives engaged conference-goers with information about Miami Beach’s pro-business offerings, from lease subsidy grants and job creation incentives to streamlined permitting, all underscoring that the city is serious about attracting and nurturing high-growth companies.

Mayor Steven Meiner also took the stage during the conference, reinforcing the city’s vision to build a year-round economy centered on innovation, inclusion, and smart growth. His participation reflected Miami Beach’s leadership-level commitment to partnering with entrepreneurs, investors, and tech leaders shaping the future.

Crucially, Miami Beach made it clear that it welcomes businesses in sectors like technology, finance, art, culture, and healthcare. These industries, well represented at eMerge, align with the city’s strategic focus to diversify beyond tourism and hospitality. With a supportive local government and competitive incentive programs, Miami Beach positioned itself as an ideal landing spot for companies looking to expand or relocate in South Florida. The conference provided a perfect platform for the city to tell its story: that Miami Beach is open for business and ready to innovate alongside the world’s best.

Championing Startups and Innovation

Startups took center stage at eMerge 2025 through the conference’s signature Startup Showcase & Accelerator competition – and Miami Beach played an active role here as well. More than 100 promising startups from around the world pitched their ideas over the two days, vying for a game-changing $125,000 investment prize put up by event partners. In the end, the final spotlight belonged to SmArT, an early-stage agriculture-tech startup based in Miami, which won this year’s Startup Showcase and secured the $125K funding to accelerate its growth

Notably, one of the judges for the startup pitch finals was Miami Beach Commissioner Joseph “Joe” Magazine. Commissioner Magazine’s participation on the judging panel reflects the city’s hands-on engagement in nurturing the startup ecosystem and aligning its economic development efforts with innovation trends. By embedding city leadership directly into events like the Startup Showcase and Accelerator, Miami Beach signals to entrepreneurs that their ideas and businesses are valued and supported here. It’s a powerful message that the city’s commitment to innovation isn’t just talk, it’s actively investing time and resources to help new ventures succeed.

A Forward-Thinking Community Poised for Growth

As eMerge Americas 2025 wrapped up, one message was clear: Miami Beach has cemented its status as a forward-thinking, business-ready city at the heart of South Florida’s tech boom. The city’s high-profile involvement in the conference – from hosting a bustling booth to weighing in on startup pitches – demonstrated Miami Beach’s determination to be more than just a venue for tech events, but a true partner in the innovation ecosystem.

City officials are capitalizing on this momentum to attract the next wave of companies and talent to Miami Beach, ensuring the local economy remains dynamic and diversified. The enthusiastic response at eMerge affirmed that Miami Beach’s pro-innovation stance is resonating with the global tech community. Interested in being part of Miami Beach’s growth story? To learn more about the city’s business attraction initiatives and incentives, visit mbbiz.com and see how Miami Beach is ready to support your success.

Wanahat: Providing Sustainable Fashion and Positive Human Impact

In January 1969, a massive oil spill, in Santa Barbara, California, caused major destruction to the Southern California environment. The tragedy captured the attention of Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson, who leveraged student passion and energy for anti-war protests, for ecological activism, particularly regarding air and water pollution, to spur national attention to environmental issues, galvanized an environmental movement, and led to the creation of Earth Day on April 4, 1970. The first Earth Day attracted 20 million people who participated in teach-ins and gatherings across the U.S., leading to the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the passage of the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Engendered Species Act.

By 1990, Earth Day went global, with events and activities taking place worldwide, marking the beginning of Earth Month, attracting 200 million participants from 141 countries. By 1992, the United Nations became actively involved a further enhanced the United Nation’s visibility. Today, Earth Month is widely recognized as one of the most important month-long observances in the world. In honor of Earth Month in Miami Beach, we are highlighting Wanahat, a sustainable stylish millinery located on Lincoln Road, in the heart of Miami Beach. “Wana” means weave in Ecuador’s indigenous language, Quechua, and entwines tradition, community values and culture with environmentally friendly fashion.

Wanahat began in Quito, Ecuador where, two childhood friends, Cristina Dalmau and Maria Rosa Troya, spent their early years together. From playing by the riverbanks, to helping their mothers in weaving shops, they formed a friendship and shared heritage. The women in their family shared the art of weaving with each thread telling a story of their culture, resilience, and craftsmanship.

Cristina and Rose grew up watching their grandmothers weave intricate patterns into straw hats, an ancient skill they were taught watching their maternal ancestors. The fine, hand-woven hats, known as sombreros de paja toquilla, are renowned for their beauty and durability. The hats were more than accessories; the hats are symbols of rich Ecuadorian heritage and on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

Cristina and Rose dreamed of opening a store that would share the beautiful Ecuadorian hats and tell the story of their family weavers, culture, and history. The ladies sought to build a business that would serve as a bridge to Ecuador, create a community that connects women, and could be a catalyst for opportunity.

In 2015, Wanahat opened in Upper Beuna Vista. The shop was small, full of character, and filled with a variety of hats.

The process of making a Toquilla Straw Hat, known worldwide as Panama Hat, is long and involved, and Cristina and Rosa respect every step. The iconic Panama Hat originated in Ecuador, dating back to the 16th century, and are woven from fibers from a toquilla palm tree characteristic of the Ecuadorian cost. Costal farmers cultivate the toquillas and harvest the stems before separating the fiber from the green outer skin. This is boiled to remove chlorophyll and dried for subsequent bleaching over a wood fire. Weavers take this raw material and begin weaving the crown and the brim of the hat; a process that may take from one day to eight months to complete. The WANAhat celebrates a tradition of style and ethical craftsmanship, making every hat a fashion statement and a symbol of heritage and sustainability.

The Wanahat owners spend long days educating customers about the history and production of the Wanahat hats and have found that Greater Miami community is intrigued by the culture crafting, resulting in a loyal following of customers who valued the craftsmanship and the commitment to traditional millinery. So they are growing their business slowly, ensuring they stay true to the foundation of their business, the weavers, and partners, and maintaining an authentic process that is respectful, equitable and fair.

Visit Wanahat, located at 811 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, FL 33139 and check out their Instagram at @Wanahat.

Miami Beach: More Than a Destination, A Hub for Innovation at eMerge Americas 2025

For decades, Miami Beach has been known as a world-class tourist destination, a paradise of sun, sand, and culture. Today, the city is emerging as a hub for technology and innovation. As the economies shifts, Miami Beach is evolving from a hospitality powerhouse to a thriving center for tech, finance, and entrepreneurship.

A key part of that transformation is Miami Beach’s continued support of eMerge Americas, the premier tech conference connecting visionaries, investors, and startups from across the globe. Returning to the Miami Beach Convention Center on March 27–28, 2025, eMerge Americas serves as a platform where ideas meet opportunity, and the city is at the forefront of it all.

A Commitment to Economic Growth

For Miami Beach, sponsoring eMerge Americas is about investing in the future. The city has long been a magnet for entrepreneurs and creatives, and cementing its role as a serious player in the innovation economy. By attracting high-growth businesses, venture capital, and forward-thinking leaders, Miami Beach is expanding its economic foundation beyond tourism and hospitality.

The presence of global tech giants, cutting-edge startups, and influential investors at eMerge Americas makes it an essential event for the city’s long-term economic strategy. With its prime location, business-friendly environment, and an increasingly diverse economy, Miami Beach is becoming a launchpad for emerging industries, from AI and cybersecurity to health tech and fintech.

A Lineup of Industry Game-Changers

The 2025 eMerge Americas conference will feature a powerhouse lineup of speakers who have shaped industries and built billion-dollar brands. Attendees will hear insights from:

Pitbull – Grammy Award®-winning artist, investor, and entrepreneur
Palmer Luckey – Founder of Anduril Industries and Oculus VR
Daymond John – Shark Tank investor and FUBU Founder
Dave Portnoy – Founder and Owner of Barstool Sports
Lt. Gen. Edmond (Miles) Brown – Deputy Commanding General, Army Futures Command
Mariana Atencio – Award-winning journalist and author

From the future of AI and defense tech to the evolving role of digital media, these speakers will offer insights that stretch across industries, inspiring attendees to think bigger and push boundaries.

Spotlight on Startups: The Accelerator + Showcase Pitch Competition

Innovation happening beyond the boardroom, it is in garage startups, co-working spaces, and incubators. The eMerge Americas Accelerator + Showcase Pitch Competition is where the most promising young companies will compete for funding, mentorship, and exposure on a global stage.

Commissioner Joesph Magazine will join the panel of inspiring judges, bringing decades of expertise in innovation and cultural leadership to the competition. As the startup ecosystem thrive in Miami Beach, this competition is a testament to the city’s dedication to supporting entrepreneurship and emerging industries.

Beyond the Conference: Miami Beach as a Tech Hub

Sponsoring eMerge Americas is a piece of Miami Beach’s larger economic development vision. The city is actively investing in infrastructure, talent attraction, and business-friendly policies to create an environment where companies—whether homegrown or newly relocated—can thrive year-round, not just during major events.

From high-speed connectivity initiatives to fostering partnerships with venture capital firms, Miami Beach is positioning itself as a leader in the innovation economy, making it clear that this is a place where businesses set up shop and scale up.

Be Part of the Future

If you are a founder, investor, or industry expert, this is an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and participate in the next wave of innovation.

Miami Beach is a place for visionaries, dreamers, and doers. Join us at the City of Miami Beach booth #945

Sun-Kissed Success: Journey of Resilience, Innovation, and Mentorship

The National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA) is a leader in promoting women’s history and is committed to education, empowerment, equality, and inclusion. NWHA proudly established March as National Women’s History Month, ensuring diverse women’s voices and contributions are recognized and celebrated.

For 2025, NWHA proudly presents the theme “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.” This theme celebrates the collective strength and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership. Fabiola Trujillo is a prime example of an inspirating women entrepreneur in Miami Beach since 1998.

In the late 1990s, Fabiola Trujillo arrived, from Ecuador, with her young son Gabriel Olas. She had dreamed of providing her son with a better future, and she believed the United States was the right place to make that dream a reality. Miami Beach welcomed them, and Fabiola pursued her dream. Fascinated by the world of beauty and wellness, she threw herself into learning how to be an aesthetician, studying skin care, healing, empowerment, and transformation. She was a natural and enjoyed making people feel special.

She carried her dreams and skills to the heart of South Beach, where she began working with prestigious hotels, such as the Delano and the Ritz Carlton, and with celebrities and international clients. This environment exposed her to creative and innovative skin care practices, procedures, and how to turn a basic treatment into an indulgent experience.

Fabiola was particularly drawn toward self-tanning or airbrush tanning treatments. Eager to improve the treatment, Fabiola developed an eco-certified, vegan, cruelty and paraben free tanning formulas that exposed her services to thousands of clients. Fabiola credits the growth of her business on her ability to persevere and access happy client influencers. She leveraged social media and bought ads in prominent magazines. After appearing in Ocean Drive, and multiple mentions in national magazines, Fabiola’s business attracted high-end clients, and she appeared on “Kourtney and Kim Take Miami” where the famous sisters were clients and after that she never looked back.

The opening of SobeTan, in 2013 on Lincoln Road, was the result of years of saving, planning, and sacrificing. In 2023, she moved the salon to a larger space in Mid-Beach, where she created the Spray Academy, which trains, coaches, and inspires the next generation of skin care professions Fabiola Trujillo’s journey, like many phenomenal women entrepreneurs and moms, started with a dream, nurtured a passion, developed a calling, fostered creativity, and is transforming lives. Take a moment and stop by SobeTan, located at 762 Arthur Godfrey Road, wish Fabiola Happy Women’s History Month, and visit the SobeTan website at https://sobetan.com/ or follow on Instagram at @SobeTan.

Investing in Small Businesses: Miami Beach’s New Grant Program Offers Up to $5,000

Running a small business comes with its fair share of successes, challenges, rising operational costs, market competition, and seasonal fluctuations. Miami Beach small businesses are not just a part of the economy, they are the heart of the community. Accordingly, the Small Business Grant Program is designed to provide direct financial support to local businesses working hard to grow and succeed.

The program offers grants of up to $5,000. This is a valuable opportunity for business owners to enhance their operations, support job growth, and build long-term sustainability. For many, this may mean upgrading equipment, expanding marketing efforts, or simply reinforcing the foundation that keeps a business thriving.

The program’s simple application process is first-come, first- funded. Now is the time for eligible businesses to take advantage of this opportunity before the April 14, 2025 deadline.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the Small Business Grant Program, businesses must meet the following criteria:

Location and Operation: Must be located within Miami Beach and have a valid Business Tax Receipt (BTR) for at least two years.
Business Registration: Must be registered as an active entity with the Florida Division of Corporations.
Independence: The business cannot be affiliated with a national chain or franchise.
Good Standing: Businesses must be compliant with all City of Miami Beach and Miami-Dade County regulations, with no outstanding debts, taxes, or code violations.

A complete list of requirements is available at Small Business Grant - City of Miami Beach

A Bold Move for Your Business

For many small businesses, a modest financial boost can be a game-changer. Whether it is to purchase new equipment, hire additional staff, or increase marketing efforts, the Small Business Grant Program provides a meaningful opportunity to invest in the future.

With applications open until April 14, 2025, businesses are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Blue Zones in Miami Beach: How Your Business Can Benefit

In February 2025, the City of Miami Beach launched a six-month Blue Zone assessment to explore how the city can be a healthier place to live, work and play. Blue Zones are geographic regions around the world where people live exceptionally long and healthy lives. The term was coined by Dan Buettner, a National Geographic explorer, after he identified five areas with a high concentration of centenarian (people living beyond 100 years). The Blue Zone team is in Miami Beach examining how the city can be enhanced by making lasting changes to the environment and health choices. Benefits include healthier population, increased economic growth, stronger community engagement, environmental advances, and enhanced quality of life.

"The Blue Zone initiative could be a catalyst for transformational change for the residents of our city," states Commissioner Tanya Bhatt, "By identifying and understanding the key factors that promote longevity and well-being, Miami Beach can develop strategies to improve health and lifespan.” Commissioner Tanya Bhatt aims to position Miami Beach as a model for health and wellness, stating, "Miami Beach can be an inspiration for individuals and communities to adopt healthier lifestyle choices.”

The Blue Zone assessment includes a readiness assessment, which is a structured exploration to determine how Blue Zones can amplify the good work occurring in Miami Beach and leverage existing plans to lift and increase the well-being of all residents and stakeholders in the area. Kelsie Cajka, the Transformation Operations Director, of Blue Zones, shared how local businesses can benefit from Blue Zones strategies:

1. The original five Blue Zones are Icaria, Greece, Loma Linda, California, Sardinia, Italy, Okinawa, Japan, and Nicoya, Costa Rica. Which one do you think is most compatible with Miami Beach?

It is hard to compare the original Blue Zones to Miami Beach, but a common element is that the cities are walkable and embrace gardening in their daily lives. Compatible characteristics of Blue Zones, however, are high rates of physical activity, plant-based, nutrient-rich diets, strong social connections and community support, low stress levels, and a sense of purpose and spiritual engagement.

2. Currently how many Blue Zones are in the United States, and which have been successful?

There are currently 90 Blue Zones in the United States. Though each city has individual goals and initiatives, they embed Blue Zone principles and track their success with Gallup polls and measuring well-being, social initiatives and wealth. For example, one community might be focused on assisting businesses and another one may focus on becoming a more pedestrian friendly community. Salinas, California was introduced to Blue Zones in 2019, through the establishment of Blue Zones Project Monterey County. Over five years, the Salinas initiative expanded, resulting in a measurable reduction in chronic health risks, increased civic pride, and improvements in overall well-being. Salinas’ designation as a certified Blue Zones Community®, the first city to earn this designation in Monterey County, is an important milestone. The community’s overall well-being score improved by 5.9 points, from 61.7 to 67.6, representing a nearly 10% increase during a period in which many regions across the country experienced significant declines in well-being due to the global coronavirus pandemic.

3. How does a city become a Blue Zone?

A "Blue Zone" designation requires community-wide initiatives to foster healthy lifestyles, including policy changes, building design improvements, and promoting social networks, based on research from regions with the highest concentrations of centenarians and people with long lives. There are four main phases of Blue Zones designation: 1) identification, 2) exploration, 3) research, and 4) certification. This process usually takes up to 5-7 years.

4. How can Miami Beach businesses benefit from a Blue Zone designation?

The business community benefits from Blue Zone strategies which promote increased tourism and hospitality revenue, attraction of health-focused businesses and investment, reduced healthcare costs and increased productivity, stronger community ties and customer loyalty, and public support.

5. What are some of the challenges businesses or governments face when implementing a Blue Zone community?

Challenges are unique to each city, however, we have seen that though a business or a government implementing Blue Zone principals does so with good intention, challenges are real. There may be resistance to change, funding obstacles for healthier options and infrastructure improvements, and measuring and maintaining a long-term impact takes patience. However, the Blue Zone team believes being physically in the city, to implement the goals and initiatives of each community, is essential and helps navigate and solve perceived and real hurdles.

For additional information, please visit www.bluezones.com.

Category: Business BIZ