👋 Happy Monday!
Welcome to this week’s edition of The Connection!
Florida just posted its highest-ever Q2 tourism numbers, Port St. Lucie announced a Procurement Vendor Expo to help local businesses work with the City, and the state’s SSBCI 2.0 program has now crossed $250M in approved support for small businesses. We’ve also got three strong events on the calendar and a nonprofit spotlight on GraceWay Village.
Nicholas, Michelle, and Danny
Co-Founders, Port St. Lucie Business Club
🐝 What’s Buzzing: Local News
Florida tourism hits a Q2 record
The state welcomed 34.4 million visitors in Q2 2025, with 91.5% domestic travelers (31.5M). Overseas visitation rose 11.4% year over year, Canadian visitors reached 640,000, and airports handled 28.6M enplanements. Hotel demand ticked up 1.2%, underscoring Florida’s continued draw for families and international travelers.
City of PSL Procurement Vendor Expo, Oct 8
Meet City department reps (Facilities, Parks & Rec, Public Works, Utility Systems, Procurement) and learn how to navigate the vendor process. Free to attend. Wed, Oct 8, 9:00–11:00 a.m. at Port St. Lucie Community Center (2195 SE Airoso Blvd.). Open to anyone interested in doing business with the City.
State Small Business Credit Initiative tops $250M for Florida small businesses
Since early 2023, the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) has supported 220 businesses statewide (including the Treasure Coast), catalyzing nearly $1B in private investment and supporting 6,800+ jobs. Eligible industries range from construction and healthcare to agriculture and transportation; funds can back startups, equipment, inventory, refinancing, and improvements.
🗓 Don’t Miss Out: Events
➔ Power in the Fort: Women’s Networking Luncheon
Monday, Sept. 8, 11:30am-1pm at Casa Pasta (100 S 2nd St #121, Fort Pierce). Monthly speaker + charity spotlight, open mic for commercials, lunch included. $25. Seats are limited.
➔ Shameless Promotion & Muffins
Wednesday, Sept. 10, 8:15-9:15am at Port St. Lucie Community Center. Bring your business cards and your best 45-second pitch. $5 cash (includes muffin & coffee). Free for first-timers!
➔ Coffee with a Grant Writer
Friday, Sept. 12, 9-10am at CSC Training Room (546 NW University Blvd., PSL). Monthly Q&A and tips on finding and winning grants — perfect for beginners and pros alike.
These are just some highlights of the networking events you might want to check out this week.
For all of the events, check out the full calendar at pslbusinessclub.com/calendar.
NOTE: We not responsible for changes, cancellations, or inaccuracies. For the latest updates, please check with the hosting organization.
⚡ The Spotlight: Changemakers
GraceWay Village
Since 2009, GraceWay Village located in Fort Pierce has been a beacon of hope for families facing poverty, food insecurity, and homelessness in St. Lucie County. The Café serves 8,000+ free hot meals each month, and the Clothing Boutique equips nearly 400 children monthly with essential clothing and new socks/underwear. Powered by volunteers and community support, GraceWay meets urgent needs with dignity.
Want to help? Learn more about donating or volunteering at GraceWayVillage.com.
📣 The Marketplace: Local Classifieds
Want to reach 3,200+ local business owners? Sponsorship spots are now available for businesses ready to connect with our engaged community!
Interested? Learn more at pslbusinessclub.com/sponsorships.
🤝 Ready to Get More Connected?
Reply with your news, events, or wins for next week’s issue.
What’s Next?
★ PSLBC September Networking Event
Wednesday, September 17th at 6pm
The Junction Cafe & Event Venue
6666 S US Hwy 1, Port St. Lucie, FL 34952
Get more info and RSVP on the Facebook event page below! 👇
