How It Works

Helping Local Entrepreneurs Start, Grow, and Thrive

Powered by technology and innovation, the THRIVE Incubator Series delivers hands-on education, expert guidance, and access to digital tools and local business incentives that help startups and small businesses succeed in Alachua.

Register for Workshops

Entrepreneurs join the THRIVE Incubator Series by registering for upcoming workshops. Businesses at any stage are welcome.

Learn from Local Experts

Attend expert-led, technology-driven workshops that equip entrepreneurs with the tools to strengthen marketing, finance, operations, and business growth.

Access Tech Tools, Resources & Incentives

Gain practical tools you can use right away and get connected to local resources and City of Alachua business incentive opportunities that support business development.

Grow with Community Support

Build meaningful connections with fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and partners—creating momentum and support beyond the program.

Image of people at a Thrive Series Workshop

Business Incubator Incentives

The City of Alachua offers incentives to businesses in Good Life Station’s THRIVE Incubator, from entry to graduation.

Learn more

2026 THRIVE Series Workshops

Unlock your business potential with the THRIVE Series Workshops at Good Life Station. Centered on the role of technology in modern entrepreneurship, this hands-on series equips founders, small business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and strategies needed to compete in a digital-first world. Through sessions led by experienced local leaders and experts, participants explore AI implementation, technology-powered marketing, and innovative approaches to business growth while gaining actionable insights, valuable connections, and practical tools they can immediately apply.

Lights, Camera, Action: How to Use Video for Business Growth Presented by Vanessa Vargas Wilson

In this session, Vanessa will share valuable tips and ideas on how to effectively incorporate video into your business strategy for maximum growth. From creating engaging product videos to showcasing your brand's unique personality with behind-the-scenes footage, this workshop will include loads of tips and ideas. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from a video marketing expert and creative business owner who has been producing and editing online videos for 15+ years!

Date: January 20th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

February Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

How to Use No-Coding AI to Grow a Stronger, Smarter Business Presented by Teddy Sanchez

In the past, building a custom tool for your business required a $50,000 budget and a six-month wait. Today, we enter the era of Vibe Coding. This session is designed specifically for non-technical business owners who want to stop "buying" software and start "describing" it into existence. Using Base44, we will move past the technical jargon of AI and focus on the only thing that matters: Intent. If you can describe your business problem in plain English, you can build the solution yourself.

Date: February 10th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

March Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Entrepreneurial Mindset Hacks Presented by Laurence Andrews

Unlock the thinking patterns that drive successful entrepreneurs in this high-impact THRIVE Workshop led by Laurence Andrews. Designed for business owners and aspiring innovators, this session will dive into practical mindset shifts, resilience strategies, and decision-making frameworks that help you overcome challenges, stay focused, and scale with confidence. Attendees will walk away with actionable “mindset hacks” they can immediately apply to boost productivity, navigate uncertainty, and think like a true entrepreneur.

Date: March 10th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

April Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Mobile Mastery with Moxie Media Presented by Joe Hancock

Ready to turn your smartphone into your most powerful marketing tool? Join Joe Hancock of Moxie’s Media for an interactive THRIVE workshop designed to help entrepreneurs elevate their brand using high-impact mobile video. In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to create engaging, professional-quality content right from your phone—no expensive equipment required. Whether you're promoting your business on social media, telling your brand story, or connecting with customers, this workshop will give you the tools and confidence to stand out. Walk away with practical strategies, creative techniques, and a clear plan to start producing video content that drives attention, builds trust, and grows your business.

Date: April 28th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

May Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

In a World of AI, Automation, and Constant Change, Relationships Still Win Presented by Brad Gamble

Drawing on his 25-year career spanning corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, and leading a large non-profit, Brad Gamble shares practical strategies for building trust and creating meaningful connections. This session will highlight real examples from working with corporate executives, to launching a startup with no brand, to engaging donors around a mission, with specific tactics that made the difference. If you’re a business owner, leader, or entrepreneur, this talk will show you how relationships can become your most powerful competitive advantage. Because even in our tech-driven world, relationships still win.

Date: May 12th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

June Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Nigel Newbutt

Date: June 9th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

July Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

The Art of the Ask Presented by James Coats

Learn how to confidently make asks that get results—whether you're seeking sponsors, partnerships, or support for your ideas—by mastering the strategies and communication techniques that turn opportunities into “yes.” Discover how to clearly communicate your value, build meaningful relationships, and approach opportunities with clarity.

Date: July 14th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

August Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Your CEO Potential Presented by Kamal Latham

Date: August 11th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

September Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Scott Schroeder

Date: September 8th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

October Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

50 Super E-Hacks: Actionable Insights for Business Builders Presented by Karl LaPan

Date: October 13th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

November Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by John Spence

Date: November 10th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

December Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Tara Blythe

Date: December 8th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

Organizations That Make Our Thrive Workshops Possible

Meet Our Speakers

Meet the experienced entrepreneurs, business leaders, and industry experts who power the Thrive Entrepreneur Series. Our speakers bring real-world insight, practical strategies, and a passion for helping others grow and succeed.

Vanessa Vargas Wilson

Vanessa Vargas Wilson, known as The Crafty Gemini, is a creative entrepreneur and former college law professor who built a 7-figure business by using strategic video content to grow an organic audience of over 1 million followers—without paid ads. She now teaches creatives and small business owners how to use simple, video-first marketing to build trust, increase visibility, and convert viewers into paying customers.

Teddy Sanchez

Teddy is an award-winning innovator and CTO of Optimal Station, leading advancements in automation, robotics, and smart city solutions. Recognized as one of Automatic Merchandiser’s “Pros to Know,” he pioneers technologies that enhance connectivity, sustainability, and user experience, while mentoring the next generation of leaders.

Laurence Andrews

Laurence has over 20 years of experience in strategy and consulting, supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in the U.S. and the Caribbean. He currently serves as Program Coordinator for the Bradford County Incubator, helping local innovators grow their ideas into thriving ventures.

Joe Hancock

Joe is the creative force behind Moxie Media Alachua, a premier video production company known for transforming ideas into powerful visual stories. With a passion for pushing creative boundaries, Joe takes pride in bringing each client’s vision to life through innovation, collaboration, and excellence. Their growing portfolio showcases a rich diversity of work—each piece a testament to Moxie Media’s signature energy, craftsmanship, and heart for storytelling.

Melissa Hough

Melissa Hough is the owner and creative lead of Magnolia Lane Studios, where she specializes in capturing authentic, heartfelt imagery through portraits, branding, and lifestyle photography. With a warm, personalized approach, she helps individuals and businesses tell their stories through timeless, high-quality visuals.

Brad Gamble

Brad Gamble is a seasoned sales and marketing executive and the CEO of the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention, where he leads efforts to inspire innovation and entrepreneurship. A University of Florida alumnus, he brings over two decades of experience driving growth across corporate, startup, and community-focused organizations.

Nigel Newbutt

Nigel is a specialist in advanced learning technologies with over 17 years of research experience in human–computer interaction and user experience design, using qualitative methods to understand how technology can better support diverse users. His work focuses on inclusive immersive technologies—particularly virtual reality—with a strong emphasis on neurodiverse communities, translating research insights into practical strategies that influence education, policy, and industry standards.

James Coats

James is a seasoned entrepreneur, community leader, and CEO of Phalanx Defense Systems. As Executive Director of Community Engagement & Continuing Education at Santa Fe College, he combines business expertise, creativity, and community passion to drive economic growth and inspire the next generation of leaders in North Florida.

Kamal Latham

Kamal is a globally experienced CEO, former diplomat, and author who has facilitated over $7 billion in business and economic growth across major global markets. As Co-Founder and CEO of Clean Spaces App and Managing Director of the F-300 AgFoodTech Park, he leads innovative ventures while inspiring individuals, businesses, and organizations to realize their full, God-given potential.

Scott Schroeder

Scott Schroeder is the Executive Director of StartGNV, where he leads efforts to grow and support Gainesville’s innovation and tech ecosystem by connecting entrepreneurs, startups, investors, and community partners. He is dedicated to fostering economic development and community engagement through strategic initiatives, partnerships, and events that strengthen the region’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Karl LaPan

Karl is the Director of UF Innovate Accelerate and The Gator Co-Lab at the University of Florida, where he leads one of the nation’s largest university-based entrepreneurial hubs supporting deep-tech and biotech startups. With over 40 years of experience in corporate innovation, technology commercialization, and startup acceleration, his work focuses on building innovation ecosystems that help founders turn discovery into scalable companies and lasting economic impact.

John Spence

John Spence is a globally recognized business leadership expert, author, keynote speaker, and executive coach known for “making the very complex… awesomely simple.” He has advised organizations worldwide — from startups to Fortune 10 companies — taught at more than 90 universities, and been named one of America’s top business thought leaders and leadership development experts.

Tara Blythe

Tara is a nationally recognized leader in organizational development, workforce strategy, and innovation with more than 20 years of experience helping organizations build high-performing, people-centered cultures. As Chief People Officer at Infotech and an executive advisor, she specializes in leadership development, change management, and strategic planning that enable teams and organizations to thrive in rapidly evolving industries.

Amy Cosper

Amy Cosper is a writer, content strategist, and former Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur magazine, where she helped shape the global conversation around startups and entrepreneurship. She is currently the Head of Content at Bizee.com, leading content strategy across editorial, social, video, and podcasting, and hosts The Get Bizee Podcast. Amy is also the author of The Ultimate Guide to Startup Success and is known for telling authentic, no-nonsense stories that inspire entrepreneurs to take action.

Boaz Santiago

Boaz is an experienced entrepreneur and problem-solver with over 25 years of expertise. With a strong background in marketing, he has helped businesses and organizations grow by crafting creative strategies, building strong networks, and finding solutions that drive results. Boaz’s entrepreneurial spirit and ability to think outside the box make him a valuable resource for both business and community growth.

Shelley Vickers

Shelley is a strategic growth leader and community connector, building brands and relationships where marketing meets purpose and opportunity. With experience in the construction and nonprofit sectors, she brings expertise in marketing, operations, and event management, backed by a BBA in Marketing from Saint Leo University.

Quang Tran

Quang Tran is an entrepreneur and mentor dedicated to helping startups build strong teams, great products, and lasting companies. As co-founder of LaunchPad at Infinity Hall and Starter Space, he has played a key role in shaping Gainesville’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and serves on the board of the Gainesville Tech Council.