Prospera Honors Local Entrepreneurs at Annual Celebration

TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 6, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Prospera, a nonprofit organization that has been serving the Greater Tampa Bay Area for 35 years, celebrated the achievements of local entrepreneurs at its annual entrepreneurship event. This year, the theme, "35 Years Rooted in Impact," highlighted the organization's longstanding commitment to supporting small businesses and fostering economic growth in the region.

The event, hosted by The Florida Aquarium, brought together local entrepreneurs and partners to recognize three businesses that have thrived under Prospera's guidance. YG Pro Solutions, owned by Esperanza Guillen and Yeltsin Gudino, Artificial Grass Empire, owned by Lissette Tejeda and Romulo Troncozo, and Trucking Services and Logistics, owned by Fabian Guerrero and Viviana Granados, were honored for their growth and contributions to the community.

Fabian Yepez, Prospera West Coast Vice President, led the program, which also included remarks from City of Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and City of Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector. Both mayors emphasized the importance of collaborations that strengthen small businesses and drive local economic growth. Augusto Sanabria, Prospera President & CEO, reinforced the organization's ongoing commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and advancing community development.

Duke Energy, the presenting sponsor, highlighted the connection between strong businesses and strong communities.

The event was made possible by the support of several host and champion sponsors, including Bank of America, JPMorganChase, Visit Tampa Bay, Wells Fargo, Northbridge University, Suncoast Credit Union, Tampa Bay Rays, TD Bank, and Verizon. Additionally, the City of Clearwater and Ortega Custom Cabinets contributed as event donors.

Prospera's impact over the past five years is significant. The organization facilitated $56.8 million in loans for small business clients, trained more than 17,700 entrepreneurs, and helped consulting clients create or retain over 17,600 jobs. Founded in 1991, Prospera has been a cornerstone of the Greater Tampa Bay Area's economic landscape, providing bilingual assistance to entrepreneurs who want to start, sustain, and grow their businesses.

In summary, the annual entrepreneurship celebration by Prospera not only recognized the achievements of local businesses but also underscored the organization's enduring commitment to fostering a thriving business environment in the Greater Tampa Bay Area.