All proceeds from this event directly support Young Entrepreneurs and Rising Stars, helping fund scholarships, training, markets, and hands-on business education for the next generation of leaders.
Seating is intentionally limited to just 30 tickets to keep the experience personal, high-impact, and packed with value.
Once they’re gone… they’re gone.
Secure your seat today and be part of something that’s building tomorrow’s business leaders.
Featured Presenter: Greg Rye
“A career that went from a mass shooting in law enforcement to transformational success as a
serial entrepreneur.”— Greg Rye
That is how Greg describes his own journey.
It is not a headline for shock value. It is a statement about resilience, responsibility, and
reinvention.
Greg’s early career in law enforcement placed him in a defining moment that would shape his
leadership philosophy for decades to come. From there, he built a layered and impactful path as
a business owner, board leader, elected official, and community connector.
He has owned multiple businesses, served in public office, chaired nonprofit and banking
boards, and remained deeply committed to strengthening the communities he serves. Through
each chapter, one principle remained constant: relationships matter, leadership matters, and
growth requires discipline.
At this SWFL Entrepreneur Connect Pop Up Workshop, Greg will share how the composure,
clarity, and accountability forged in public safety translated into entrepreneurial growth and
public service leadership.
You will hear how best practices, strong relationships, and steady decision-making became the
bridge from crisis to contribution.
As Diane often says,
“The teacher presents himself when the student is ready.”
We are lifelong learners in business and in leadership. When the right voice steps forward at the
right time, growth follows.
Diane is excited to bring this phenomenal Featured Presenter to our workshop. Greg Rye is an
entrepreneur with many layers. His story is riveting, grounded, and filled with practical lessons.
From public safety to public service.
From pressure to purpose.
From experience to impact.
This is more than a story. It is perspective. It is a strategy. It is proof that reinvention is possible.
If he can navigate that journey, what might be possible for you?
This is a presentation you will not want to miss.
Unlock Fresh Strategies & Network with Local Entrepreneurs
Learn
Connect
Build
SWFL Entrepreneur Connect is a pop-up workshop and networking event designed to equip entrepreneurs of all ages with real-world tools to grow their business ideas.
Next Pop-Up Workshop will be in March 2026 - Sign up for notifications of event times and locations.
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SWFL Entrepreneur Connect
Our mission is simple: to equip entrepreneurs with the skills, strategies, and tools they need to grow and succeed. We believe in fostering a community where business owners can learn from experts, connect with like-minded peers, and gain real-world insights that can be applied immediately.
We also open the doors to the next generation—youth ages 12 and up—giving them the rare opportunity to learn directly from successful entrepreneurs. Our workshops are designed to spark curiosity, inspire innovation, and help young people see what’s possible when you think big and act boldly.
For homeschool families, these sessions offer a unique and engaging supplement to classroom learning—turning business education into a hands-on, real-world experience. Whether you’re launching your first venture, scaling your business, or planting the seeds of entrepreneurship in the next generation, SWFL Entrepreneurs Connect is here to help you make it happen.
What did I Miss?
Why you don’t want to miss SWFL Entrepreneur Connect
Every month, we bring together entrepreneurs, business owners, and students for workshops that actually matter. These aren’t boring lectures—they’re hands-on, real-world sessions packed with tools, strategies, and connections you can use the very same day.
Learn from experts who’ve been there.
Network with people who get what you’re building.
Walk away with ideas and skills to grow faster.
This week, I had the privilege of attending SWFL Entrepreneur Connect – Your Brand in the Spotlight, and it was a game-changer for me as a small business owner. Their insights gave me a deeper understanding of the press—especially the difference between earned media (free, but requires adding real value to readers and journalists) and paid media (guaranteed, but at a cost). What stood out most is how earned press isn’t just exposure—it’s about building trust and contributing meaningful value to your community. As a small business owner, I walked away inspired with practical tools on how to better share my story and get my brand out there. And of course, a huge thank you to JD Ribali for always connecting me with opportunities like these. Your support and encouragement have been instrumental in opening new doors.
Anthony Fonseca Sotelo, Student Entrepreneur
