Investor Conference Highlights Innovation and Opportunity in Manatee County Through Ritch Ventures and CEP Collaboration
Ritch Ventures, a Manatee County-based portfolio company led by Robert Ritch, partnered with Community Equity Partners (CEP) of Tennessee to host a high-energy investor conference on Thursday, April 24, at the IMG Golf Club.
The full-day event offered breakfast, lunch, a cocktail hour, and extensive networking opportunities. Eighteen businesses from various industries pitched their ventures to a room of prospective investors, spotlighting the region’s growing entrepreneurial energy.
A standout moment of the day was a video showcase from Rowlett Middle Academy students. Winners of the school’s Owl’s Opus Invention Project shared their creative and practical inventions, impressing attendees with their innovation. With a history of over 20 years in Manatee County, Rowlett Academy K-8 is a highly regarded public charter school located in Bradenton, emphasizing leadership, communication, and the arts across all grade levels. Established initially as an elementary school, Rowlett expanded to include middle grades, earning a reputation for academic excellence, creative expression, and fostering a strong sense of community.
Building on the momentum from the inventor project, Ritch Ventures emphasized its commitment to youth entrepreneurship through its supported nonprofit, Big Dreams Through Small Steps. The organization is dedicated to empowering children and families by providing accessible educational programs, entrepreneurial training, job skills development, and community engagement opportunities. Big Dreams Through Small Steps plans to continue working with local youth to foster innovation, leadership, and the entrepreneurial spirit that events like this invention project inspire.
Manatee County Deputy County Administrator Courtney De Pol addressed the group, sharing insights on the many advantages Manatee County offers to growing businesses. She highlighted the county’s strong infrastructure, business-friendly environment, and strategic location on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Joining her was Robert Wenzel, Development Services Division Manager with the County Zoning Office, who was available to provide additional information on how Manatee County supports business development and streamlines processes for new and expanding companies.
Ritch Ventures, headquartered in Manatee County, manages a diverse portfolio of companies across multiple industries. Under the leadership of Robert Ritch, the firm focuses on investing in and supporting businesses that drive innovation and contribute to the local economy.
The investor conference provided a platform for entrepreneurs to connect with potential funding and reinforced Manatee County’s position as a prime destination for innovation, investment, and business growth.
If you want to learn more about Ritch Ventures, contact Robert Ritch at robertritch@ritchventures.com. If your business is looking for capital, fill out the form below.
