From Vision to Exit: Relationships, Grit, and Innovation

Tampa Bay Product Group
Empowering Tampa Bay’s creators of physical and software products through education, collaboration, and industry connection. Do you build software or physical products? Are you looking to connect with peers and stay abreast of industry trends? The Tampa Bay Product Group calls all product enthusiasts no matter your role.

This group is for professionals who are passionate about Agile, Product Development, and Product Creation. We connect to share experiences, knowledge, and best practices in Lean Product Development. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this group is the perfect place to network, learn, and grow in the field of product development. Let’s collaborate, innovate, and elevate our skills together!

About the event
This presentation shares Bob Crews' real-world journey of conceptualizing, launching, growing, sustaining, and ultimately preparing to exit his I.T. company, Checkpoint Technologies, Inc., founded as an S-Corp in January 2003. As Bob Crews, I reflect on the business decisions, risks, and lessons learned at every stage of the company lifecycle, from the earliest vision to long-term success planning.

A key focus is the value - and complexity - of building a business with partners who are also close friends or trusted relationships, where loyalty, shared values, and honest communication can become both a strength and a challenge. I also explore the constant pressure to keep up with changing technology, evolving client expectations, and the rapid rise of AI, all while staying relevant and competitive in a demanding industry. More than a company history, this is my practical and personal perspective on entrepreneurship, resilience, innovation, and what it truly takes to build something lasting—and to know when and how to exit well.

Attendees will also receive worksheets and checklists designed to provide practical reference and guidance.

Agenda
6:00 - 6:30pm - Networking & Food
6:30 - 7:55pm - Workshop
7:55 - 8:00pm - Closing
8:00 - 9:30pm - Optional non-sponsored networking @ Cigar City

Location
Kforce
1150 Assembly Dr Suite 500, Tampa, FL 33607

• Free garage parking.
• Please enter from the first floor entrance Kforce team members will be in the lobby to let you in.
• Doors close at 7pm sharp.
• The buildings elevators stop working at 7pm so the team will not be able to let you in after this time.
• If you do not see anyone in the lobby before 7pm, please leave a comment on this event and someone will come to get you.

Are you interested in sponsoring an event? Please reach to Nisha via email at: Nisha@tampabayproductgroup.com.