Join us for eRising 2025, our annual, high-energy gathering for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and the partners who power a vibrant Suncoast economy.
From startup stories to workforce pipelines, eRising focuses on how entrepreneurs overcome real challenges—finding funding, marketing, scaling, and more. You’ll leave with insights you can use to start, open, or grow your business.
Leslie Samuel transforms how organizations profit from AI without the confusion, intimidation, or need for a tech degree. A former neuroscience professor turned AI strategist, he combines scientific insight into how people learn with real-world business application, showing executives how to multiply revenue, helping teams 10× productivity, and guiding professionals to become indispensable.
Ready to be inspired? Graduates of the CareerSource Suncoast CEO program share how bold ideas, practical training, and real-world connections helped launch their entrepreneurial journey.
SCORE Mentor Jose Martinez is a seasoned business strategist and transformation leader with over 20 years of experience driving sustainable growth and operational excellence across Fortune 500 and mid-market companies. Deeply committed to community service, Jose serves as a Certified Mentor and Chapter Marketing Chair for SCORE Manasota.
Ruben Alfaras has been a banker in Florida for 37 years, with extensive experience in commercial and SBA lending. For the past 25 years, he has specialized in SBA lending, bringing a deep understanding of this critical area of commercial finance. He currently serves as Senior Vice President and Director of the SBA Division at Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU), a role he chose because of LMCU’s strong commitment to serving its members.
Ruben believes small businesses are the backbone of the U.S. economy and considers it a privilege to help owners secure the financing they need to start, build, or expand their companies. He and his team are dedicated to being there every step of the way—keeping the process moving smoothly and on track from application to closing.
Just a few months ago, after 21 years as a bartender at Clancy’s Irish Sports Pub in Bradenton, Dana Rothgery achieved a dream by purchasing the business. Working with the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) Dana has hit the ground running on her new business adventure.
Venice Estate Sales & Gallery helps families across Venice and Sarasota County navigate downsizing and estate transitions. Co-founders Dan Erickson (certified appraiser & auctioneer, 35+ years) and Debbie Zipes (LCSW, 30+ years)—featured speakers at State College of Florida’s 26 West Center—offer estate sales, buyouts/cleanouts, certified appraisals, and a downtown gallery, partnering with realtors, attorneys, advisors, and senior-living professionals to provide clear guidance and peace of mind.
8:00 – 9:00 AM
Jumpstart your day with the Suncoast’s brightest minds! Connect, collaborate, and fuel your business ambitions over a delicious breakfast. Don’t miss this chance to build powerful partnerships and spark new ideas!
9:00 – 9:30 AM
Joshua Matlock, CSS CEO | Anthony Gagliano, CSS COO | Leslie Samuel, Emcee
CEO Josh Matlock / COO Anthony Gagliano sets the stage for the passion, determination, and vision for stories from one of the most vibrant entrepreneurial communities in Florida.
9:30 – 10:00 AM
Thomas Graff | Dave Daverio | Juliana de Brés-Taylor
Ready to be inspired? Graduates of the CareerSource Suncoast CEO program share how bold ideas, practical training, and real-world connections helped launch their entrepreneurial journey.
10:00 – 10:20 am
Jose Martinez, SCORE Mentor
SCORE Mentor Jose Martinez is a seasoned business strategist and transformation leader with over 20 years of experience driving sustainable growth and operational excellence across Fortune 500 and mid-market companies. Deeply committed to community service, Jose serves as a Certified Mentor and Chapter Marketing Chair for SCORE Manasota.
10:20 – 10:30 AM
Refreshments, and business networking.
10:30 – 11:00 AM
Ruben Alfaras, LMCU Featured Speaker
LCMU joined the Sarasota business community with the opening of its downtown Sarasota office in 2023. It started in 1933 when 13 entrepreneurial teachers pooled their resources and formed the Grand Rapids Teachers Credit Union. Today, the bank holds $15 billion in assets with 72 locations in Michigan and Florida.
11:00 – 11:20 AM
Dana Rothgery
Just a few months ago, after 21 years as a bartender at Clancy’s Irish Sports Pub in Bradenton, Dana Rothgery achieved a dream by purchasing the business. Working with the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) Dana has hit the ground running on her new business adventure.
11:20 – 11:40 AM
Debbie Zipes and Dan Erickson
Debbie and Dan met on a pickleball court. Four years later they decided to become business partners and opened Venice Estate Sales & Gallery. Their journey to opening a small business is a testament to following your passion.
11:40 AM – Noon
Leslie Samuel
Leslie Samuel transforms how organizations profit from AI without confusion, intimidation, or need for a tech degree. A former neuroscience professor, he combines scientific insight into how people learn with real-world business applications.
CareerSource Suncoast is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. All voice telephone numbers on this website may be reached by persons using TTY/TDD equipment via the Florida Relay Service at 711. U.S. military veterans receive priority of service at each CareerSourceSuncoast career center.
CareerSource Suncoast is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. All voice telephone numbers on this website may be reached by persons using TTY/TDD equipment via the Florida Relay Service at 711. U.S. military veterans receive priority of service at each CareerSourceSuncoast career center.
CareerSource Suncoast is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. All voice telephone numbers on this website may be reached by persons using TTY/TDD equipment via the Florida Relay Service at 711. U.S. military veterans receive priority of service at each CareerSourceSuncoast career center.
