Big Day for Small Business at the Capitol!
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OEV and Sweetfirmations by Kimmie Kakes joined business leaders and entrepreneurs from across Florida for Small Business Day at the Capitol, an annual event celebrating the vital role small businesses play in the state’s economy. Throughout the day, OEV connected with partners to share the Tallahassee–Leon County story and emphasize the importance of supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of growth.
Small businesses are the backbone of the local economy—driving job creation, sparking innovation, and contributing to the unique character and resilience of our community. OEV’s presence at the Capitol underscores our commitment to fostering an environment where local businesses can thrive, expand, and continue making a meaningful impact across the region.
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Registration Now Open for 11th Annual Leon Works Expo
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Leon County and the Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality (OEV) are proud to announce that exhibitor registration is now open for the 11th Annual Leon Works Expo. This unique and exciting event, taking place on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, offers employers the chance to showcase their company to local high school students soon entering the workforce. Businesses are encouraged to register by April 3, 2026, at https://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/leonworksexpo/.
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Direct Connect is the premiere event for construction networking. General contractors and agencies are directly accessible to vendors. Taking place on February 27, 2026 at the Jim Moran Institute from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, this two-hour event will feature a brief opening program followed by structured networking sessions designed to foster meaningful one-on-one interactions between participants.
General contractors, officials from Leon County Schools, the Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency, and other public and private entities seeking minority participation will lead the discussion. Attendees will receive an overview of upcoming projects in the region, along with insight into the specific vendors and trades these agencies and contractors are seeking as partners. This event represents a unique opportunity to bring multiple projects, decision-makers, and business opportunities together under one roof and within a single forum.
To ensure maximum value for all participants, attending businesses are expected to come prepared to present information about their areas of expertise, business capacity, and relevant certifications. Businesses are also encouraged to bring references, portfolios, or visual examples of their work to share with potential partners.
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Demos Parneros
Entrepreneur
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Upcoming Opportunities
from Our Partners
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2026 Business of Healthcare Summit
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Florida State University's Herbert Wertheim College of Business will host the 2026 Business of Healthcare Summit on Wednesday, February 11.
The summit brings industry partners together with the Wertheim College of Business, FSU Health, and a broad network of faculty, students and alumni to address shared challenges and identify innovative solutions.
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Read Past Issues of the OEV Newsletter Online!
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Delve into past issues of the OEV Newsletter to catch up on updates, insights, economic development initiatives, programs, and opportunities in Tallahassee-Leon County!
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