Connecting & Celebrating Florida’s Innovation Ecosystem.
Synapse Florida
Synapse exists to create valuable collisions among entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, corporations, and civic leaders—and to shine a light on the breakthroughs happening across our region. We are the connective tissue, the signal amplifier, and the catalyst for Florida’s future.
Synapse Summit
Mission Accomplished!
Synapse formed in 2016 with the idea of helping to evolve the Tampa Bay Innovation Ecosystem. A decade of growth revealed a very different Tampa Bay. Following the 2025 Synapse Summit, leadership assessed our past progress and current position. It became obvious that, although full credit cannot belong to Synapse alone, it certainly helped move the needle on innovation. Now in Tampa Bay, legions of entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, corporations, and civic leaders are collaborating in this dynamic economy. It was decided to discontinue the annual Synapse Summit conference. Whereas Synapse served as an essential connective tissue and a signal amplifier, the need for a single catalyst for Florida’s future was no longer needed in the same way. The community is on fire!
What started as a gathering became something bigger, a place where connections were made, friendships were formed, and Florida’s innovation story gained momentum.
We invite you to explore the Synapse webpage and associated social media posts to recall highlights of the journey.
Synapse Florida
Impact Report
Since 2017, Synapse helped drive innovation, connect communities, and empower ecosystems across Florida.
Innovation Lives Here
Florida's Thriving Ecosystem
Florida is rapidly emerging as a powerhouse of innovation, fueled by a dynamic blend of entrepreneurial spirit, strategic investment, and groundbreaking research.
At Synapse, we believe that true innovation thrives on connection. The valuable collisions that occur when diverse minds and resources converge. We serve as the central nervous system of this vibrant ecosystem, fostering collaboration, amplifying success, and providing the connective tissue that transforms ideas into impact.
Cybersecurity
As digital threats grow, so does the need for innovative defenses. This track explores cutting-edge solutions to protect businesses, infrastructure, and communities from evolving cyber risks.
National Security
In a rapidly changing global landscape, safeguarding our nation is more crucial than ever. This track highlights strategies, technologies, and innovations driving national defense and resilience.
Healthcare, Health Sciences
Advances in healthcare and life sciences are transforming patient care, research, and medical technology. Dive into innovations that are improving health outcomes and accessibility.
Environmental Science, Sustainability, & Resilience
Environmental challenges require bold solutions. This track focuses on scientific breakthroughs and sustainable practices that promote resilience and environmental health for the future.
FinTech
The future of finance is here. Explore how fintech innovations—from digital banking to blockchain—are redefining the way we interact with money and driving Tampa Bay’s growth as a financial tech hub.
Entrepreneurship
Fueling innovation starts with bold ideas. This track celebrates entrepreneurs and startups, offering insights and tools to transform ideas into thriving businesses.
The momentum is real and it’s happening across Florida.
Ecosystem Stories
When innovation becomes visible, progress accelerates. Synapse helped to surface the people, breakthroughs, and partnerships driving the ecosystem forward.
Founder Spotlights:
The entrepreneurs building, scaling, and redefining what’s possible.
Research Breakthroughs:
Cutting-edge discoveries moving from labs into real-world impact.
Startup Milestones:
Fundraises, launches, and growth moments that signal momentum.
Ecosystem Collaborations:
Where corporations, startups, and institutions connect—and build together.
Investment Activity:
Capital flowing in and fueling the next wave of innovation.
A look back at the energy, the people, and the connections that helped shape Florida’s innovation ecosystem.
The Synapse Network
Creating Valuable Collisions
Synapse is dedicated to facilitating meaningful interactions among the key players in Florida’s innovation ecosystem.
Entrepreneurs
Investors
Corporate Innovators
Universities & Research Institutions
Talent
Policymakers & Civic Leaders
Startup Support Organizations