Gainesville’s startGNV brings back its annual CelebrateGNV event with Cox Business

Press release from startGNV

startGNV, a local nonprofit with a mission to grow the innovation ecosystem of Greater Gainesville, announced the return of their popular “CelebrateGNV” event to the Cade Museum on January 27, 2022. The annual-sell-out community gathering, held virtually last year due to the pandemic, shines a light on local success stories amongst Gainesville-based startups and technology companies, as well as the people and organizations who support them.

In partnership with Cox Business, this year’s CelebrateGNV event will also feature the debut of the Innovation Ecosystem Awards, featuring categories such as “Startup Mentor of the Year,” “Tech Employer of the Year,” and “Community Impact of the Year,” as well as a $5,000 cash grant to a “Rising Star” early-stage startup company.

“Cox Business remains dedicated to nurturing and promoting an environment of entrepreneurship across North Central Florida,” said Harbin Bolton, Vice President of Cox Business, Florida & Georgia. “We are proud to partner with startGNV and support the innovation ecosystem of Greater Gainesville.”

Community members are invited to nominate deserving recipients for the individual awards, such as “Startup Mentor of the Year.” For the company awards, such as “Tech Employer of the Year” and the $5,000 “Rising Star” grant, applications can be submitted by a representative of the company. Nominations and applications will be reviewed by a panel of community leaders. More details about the Innovation Ecosystem Awards, including the nomination and application forms, can be found at https://startgnv.com/awards. 

“The return of CelebrateGNV to the Cade Museum mirrors the return of community momentum and energy across our innovation ecosystem,” said James Gibson, co-founder of Quottly and Board President of startGNV. “Despite the hardship of the past year and a half, there has also been so much to celebrate in our community, and we’re excited to recognize these local success stories.”

About Cox Communications

Cox Communications is committed to creating meaningful moments of human connection through broadband applications and services. The largest private telecom company in America, we proudly serve nearly seven million homes and businesses across 18 states. We’re dedicated to empowering others to build a better future and celebrate diverse products, people, suppliers, communities and the characteristics that make each one unique. Cox Communications is the largest division of Cox Enterprises, a family-owned business founded in 1898 by Governor James M. Cox.

About startGNV

startGNV is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on a mission to grow the innovation ecosystem of Greater Gainesville. We’re dedicated to creating an atmosphere of engaging networking events, resources, and talent support for innovation companies in the Greater Gainesville area.