By Office of Communications

Three women vendors at the Big Bend Regional Small Business Week

Big Bend Regional Small Business Week 2025 Highlights Innovation, Leadership, and Local ImpactPage Title

The Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida A&M University (FSBDC at FAMU) successfully hosted the 42nd Annual Big Bend Regional Small Business Week from May 6–8, 2025, at the AC Marriott Hotel in Tallahassee. The event brought together hundreds of entrepreneurs, community leaders, and business champions to celebrate the vital role of small businesses across the Big Bend region.

Tangela Lofton with mac book in hand at Big BendTangela Lofton, regional director of the FSBDC at FAMU. (Photo special to FAMU)

“The energy and engagement throughout the week were incredible,” said Tangela Lofton, regional director of the FSBDC at FAMU. “This event reaffirmed our region’s strength, ingenuity, and commitment to inclusive economic growth.”

Vendor explaining his business to an interested attendeeA vendor discussing his services with an FSBDC attendee. (Photo special to FAMU)

Centered on the theme “Innovation & Technology: Success Stories from Local Entrepreneurs,” this year’s program showcased resilience, creativity, and growth in the regional business ecosystem. The three-day event featured networking opportunities, expert-led workshops, an exhibit fair, and a signature awards luncheon recognizing outstanding achievements.

Event highlights included:

  • Opening Reception where attendees connected with industry peers and local officials.
  • Workshop & Exhibit Fair offering sessions on digital tools, access to capital, government contracting, and more.
  • Awards Luncheon headlined by keynote speaker Tirrell Whitley, CEO and founder of LiquidSoul.

Two women at Big Bend Small Business Week sitting at the table(Photo special to FAMU)

The weeklong celebration was made possible through the support of sponsors including Wells Fargo, Florida A&M University, the FAMU School of Business and Industry, and many community partners.

To learn more about upcoming events or business support services, visit www.sbdcfamu.org.

About FSBDC at FAMU

The Florida SBDC at Florida A&M University provides consulting, training, and resources to entrepreneurs and small businesses across an eight-county region. As part of the Florida SBDC Network and a partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration, FSBDC at FAMU is committed to fostering economic growth through business success.

Media Contact:

Rachel James-Terry
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu

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