The unification of two high-profile South Florida-based technology associations will ensure the area continues to grow its tech-hub scene. Tech Hub, launched in 2015 as Palm Beach Tech, and Tech Lauderdale, formed initially as South Florida Technology Alliance, was established in 1995. The two organizations will merge their resources to create an expanded entity with a unified mission to promote technology and innovation to continue building South Florida’s tech hub.
The new organization, South Florida Tech Hub, will service technology-focused industries in four South Florida counties: Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Martin. The area has increasingly become a hotbed for regionally-based start-ups and blue-chip industry leaders relocating or expanding their operations to South Florida.
The formation of South Florida Tech Hub will ensure this dynamic industry has the resources it needs to thrive by providing several strategic initiatives, including education, diversity, career resources, corporate collaboration, government and policy, and membership growth. The non-profit 501(c)6 membership association aims to broaden its Board with a more representative, culturally diverse tech industry face within the region.
“Technology is the future, and I believe our region is at the forefront of the economic transformation that is occurring,” says Michael Fowler, Vice President, IT, Florida Power & Light, and Co-Chair of South Florida Tech Hub. “This is a unique opportunity to unify the tech community in South Florida and work together to attract both start-ups and high profile companies to our region.”
The merging of the two organizations was proposed and primarily facilitated by Nikki Cabus, a rising leader in South Florida’s technology scene. Cabus offers a unique perspective, as she has had leadership positions in both organizations.
“The combination of Tech Lauderdale’s 25-plus year successful track record and long history in South Florida tech, along with the fresh, innovative, dynamic approach that Tech Hub offers, allows the best of both worlds to our member partners,” Cabus says. “Our combined goals are one: Present a unified focus, two: Make a bigger impact, and three: Increase our collective efficiency to service our member partners.”
Louis Balbirer, South Florida Tech Hub Co-Chair, adds, “As we combine these two organizations, we will better position South Florida Tech Hub to promote the growth, connectivity, and world-class technology ecosystem throughout South Florida. This combined organization, with over 25 years of history, will have the experience and resources to provide world class programming including networking events, workshops, conferences, as well as education, advocacy to support all parts of our technology community.”
