40 Under 40 class of 2024: A gritty, innovative group

In one short answer, Ivory Matthews, vice president of community and governmental affairs for Lakewood Ranch homebuilder Neal Communities, personifies a key characteristic in the Business Observer’s annual 40 under 40 class: she’s a doer.

“I don't keep a bucket list,” Matthews says when asked what's the most significant item on her life bucket list — and what's keeping her from completing it? “If I want to do something, I just do it.”

That sense of accomplishment abounds on this year's list, much like previous years. Half the winners have either started or run companies or organizations. That ranges from a large network of oncology practices to a sauce, dressings and condiments company. Organizations launched by the founders on the list vary from ice cream shops, dance studios and make-your-own candle stores to the more traditional roofing, accounting and tech companies.