Corporate Report: September 28

USF, partners creating Tampa business incubator
A regional partnership led by the University of South Florida has been awarded $1 million by the U.S. Commerce Department to support new Web and mobile app ventures.

The federal grant is one of just seven i6 Challenge grants awarded nationwide this year and the only one of its kind awarded this year in the Southeast. The proposal, which is projected to create 245 high-wage jobs, pairs selected new business ventures with dedicated mentors and supports the fledgling businesses with an array of resources and services.

The grant will be used to create and operate The FirstWaVE Venture Center, an innovation and incubation center to be headquartered in downtown Tampa. The center will initially serve the eight Florida counties that make up the greater Tampa Bay area.