Garry Simmons, owner & CEO of Data Set Ready (DSR), landed back in Tallahassee after serving in the Navy for 9 years. He understood the needs of Tallahassee and decided to start his own technology company that specializes in cable network infrastructure. Since the early days of his company, the Office of Economic Vitality has been vital to the growth of his business. Learn more about Garry Simmons and his MWSBE-certified company.

Dr. Adriene Wright is the President & CEO of Abelita Consulting, driven to transform people and organizations. The MWSBE certification has been vital to Abelita’s success by enabling Dr. Wright to work with prime contractors and pursue large contracts with the City, County, and the Office of Economic Vitality. Learn more about Dr. Wright and Abelita Consulting.

Tallahassee has been an ideal place to start Environmental and Geotechnical Specialists, Inc. (EGS) for Judy Hayden. EGS is an engineering consulting company that provides services associated with civil engineering. As president, Judy urges other business owners to take advantage of what’s available locally like she has with the help of the Office of Economic Vitality. Learn more about Judy Hayden and her business journey.

Jay Morrell and Earley’s Kitchen have been in business since 2008. Jay highlights the Office of Economic Vitality, Small Business Development Center, and Jim Moran Institute as great organizations that made doing business in Tallahassee easy. As a certified Minority, Women and Small Business Enterprise, Jay’s business has been able to land contracts and do work in and around Tallahassee.

Christi Hale Sparkman is the owner of Hale Contracting, Inc., which has been in business since 1997. Christi credits the Office of Economic Vitality and the Small Business Development Center for the continued success and growth of her business. Through these organizations, Christi was able to learn about financial services and contracting opportunities.

Chief Executive Officer of CTW Broadcasting, Inc. Carlos Wilder started his business in Tallahassee because he saw a need for high-quality multimedia. The Office of Economic Vitality has been instrumental to Carlos through their workshops, and helping his business gain knowledge and become more competitive in the Tallahassee community.

Calvin started his business in Tallahassee because he was born and raised in Tallahassee. Calvin credits the Office of Economic Vitality’s courses for teaching him about the bidding process and obtaining business loans. Calvin believes that the Office of Economic Vitality is a great first step for individuals wanting to do business in Tallahassee.

Linda Hunkiar made Tallahassee the home for their business and utilized resources from the Office of Economic Vitality during their journey. Learn more about Bannerman Landscaping Owner Linda Hunkiar and her business journey.