Studio that builds companies, backed by prominent leaders, launches in Sarasota

A group of Sarasota executives steeped in founding and exiting businesses has turned their attention — and wallets — to a new startup, Suncoast Venture Studio.

By Elizabeth King
| 5:00 a.m. October 24, 2025
| 0 Free Articles Remaining!

Paul Harder, Sean Dotson, Travis Priest and Will Dolan are on the Suncoast Venture Studio's leadership team.

Manatee-Sarasota

A new company that aims to create businesses from scratch has formed in Sarasota, boasting a C-suite packed with executive entrepreneurs, some who have started and sold their own companies.

Called Suncoast Venture Studio, the firm is designed to start up businesses and retain them in the Sarasota area. That's according to CEO and co-founder Travis Priest, whose resume includes founding a company acquired by cybersecurity giant Symantec.