Description
spARK Labs by ARK Invest (formerly Tampa Bay Innovation Center) is an innovation hub and early-stage support ecosystem in St. Petersburg, Florida that helps founders build and scale disruptive technology ventures. Backed by ARK Invest’s research-driven insights, spARK Labs provides mentorship, customized incubation support, networking, programming, prototyping workspace, and connections to capital and customers — with a focus on technologies like AI, robotics, energy storage, blockchain, and multi-omics biology.
Eligibility
• Early-stage technology entrepreneurs and founders with innovative solutions across disruptive sectors.
• Startups that align with ARK Invest’s innovation themes (e.g., AI, robotics, energy storage, blockchain, multi-omics).
• Companies open to long-term incubation, ecosystem support, and networking efforts rather than short cohort constraints.
Process
Engagement & Intake: Start by contacting spARK Labs to explore fit within its incubator ecosystem (application processes vary by cohort and initiative).
Long-Term Support: Instead of a fixed 12-week sprint, spARK Labs provides ongoing, customized support over 12 months or more depending on startup needs.
Mentoring & Ecosystem Integration: Startups receive one-on-one support, mentoring, and curated introductions to advisors, industry partners, and capital ecosystems.
Capital Access Support: While the program does not directly deploy capital, it helps founders navigating fundraising by connecting them with investor networks and ARK-aligned research insights.
Community & Events: Founders participate in events, workshops, curated programming, and pitch exposure opportunities within the Tampa Bay innovation ecosystem.
What an Applicant can Obtain
✔ Customized incubation support and mentor access tailored to growth stage and technology area.
✔ Workspace, prototyping labs, and collaborative innovation environment at the ARK Innovation Center.
✔ Connections to capital networks and investor introductions to aid fundraising strategies.
✔ Participation in ecosystem events, workshops, and curated programming to build skills and visibility.
✔ Community integration with peers, advisors, and industry partners accelerating technology development.
