Tampa – November 07, 2026 -- Prospera, a bilingual economic development nonprofit, facilitated $56.8 million in loans for small business clients over the last five years, the organization said at its annual entrepreneurship celebration at The Florida Aquarium.
The event, presented by Duke Energy, carried the theme "35 Years Rooted in Impact." Prospera has operated since 1991.
Prospera trained more than 17,700 entrepreneurs in five years
Over the same period, Prospera's consulting clients created or retained more than 17,600 jobs. The organization currently serves Florida, North Carolina and Georgia.
Three Tampa Bay-area businesses recognized for growth
Prospera honored three small businesses it has supported with guidance and services:
- YG Pro Solutions, owned by Esperanza Guillen and Yeltsin Gudino
- Artificial Grass Empire, owned by Lissette Tejeda and Romulo Troncozo
- Trucking Services and Logistics, owned by Fabian Guerrero and Viviana Granados
Mayors Castor and Rector back small business collaboration
Prospera West Coast Vice President Fabian Yepez led the program, which addressed the challenges facing entrepreneurs and the organizations that support them, as well as the need for continued investment. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector spoke on collaborations that strengthen small businesses and local economic growth. Prospera President and CEO Augusto Sanabria attended.
Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president, said that "strong businesses lead to strong communities," and described the utility's partnership with Prospera as longstanding.
Banks and corporates fund the event across three sponsor tiers
Bank of America, JPMorganChase, Visit Tampa Bay and Wells Fargo were Host Sponsors. Champion Sponsors were Northbridge University, Suncoast Credit Union, Tampa Bay Rays, TD Bank and Verizon. The City of Clearwater and Ortega Custom Cabinets served as Event Donors.