Erick Gavin of Edin Capital moves from government innovator to General Partner as firm advances its “Integrated Capital” investment model in South Florida

After years of working at the intersection of government, startup growth, and ecosystem building, Erick Gavin is shifting his focus toward investing at Edin Capital as the venture industry grapples with what sustainable growth looks like in today’s market. The West Palm Beach-based venture firm announced Gavin’s shift from public sector leader to private capital partner amid a broader reassessment of how venture capital supports sustainable growth. The shift comes amid increasing pressure across the venture industry to rethink how capital supports innovation beyond headline-making fundraises and exits toward durable returns and socioeconomic outcomes. Gavin, one of the firm’s four founders, brings a background spanning government innovation work, startup ecosystem growth, and economic development, which Edin Capital sees as a strategic foundation for its broader mission to better align private capital with regional needs. The firm positions itself as a builder of systems that connect investor returns with broader regional resilience, especially in fast-growing markets like South Florida. “Traditional venture has been engineered for velocity that we’re moving to fill,” Gavin said in a statement, pointing to the need for models that can better match the realities founders face on the ground. He added that South Florida is at a moment where the region can build investment structures that support companies built for real value creation and scalable impact, not just how quickly they scale or how large they can become. “Erick brings a rare combination of policy fluency, startup leadership, and investor mindset,” said Andrew Davis, Managing Partner of Edin Capital. “As we establish our headquarters in South Florida, his experience strengthens our ability to design capital models that support founders while creating durable outcomes for investors and the region.” In his role, Gavin will leverage his legal, government, and business background to focus on investment strategy and operations,  governance, and partnerships, including relationships that connect Edin’s platform with public stakeholders and regional institutions. The firm says this work is central to its long-term goal of moving beyond traditional venture incentives and into a model designed for more predictable growth and repeatable outcomes. Edin Capital was founded by Andrew Davis, Aurelia Edwards, Erick Gavin, and Nelson Telemaco. Edin Capital describes its model as Integrated Capital, a framework designed to balance returns with measurable social and economic impact. The firm has developed proprietary tools to support this approach, including its Venture Bond financial instrument, Chariot Strategy portfolio construction method, and Edin Distribution model designed to create steadier liquidity and reduce downside risk, without sacrificing venture-scale returns. With Gavin as a partner, Edin Capital is signaling that the next stage of venture in the region may be less about chasing isolated unicorn outcomes and more about building investment structures that can compound value across businesses, communities, and the broader South Florida economy.   #Tampa #TampaBay #StPete #Clearwater #ThingsToDo #LocalEvents #Networking #TampaBayConnects #TampaNetworking #WomenInBusiness #TampaEntrepreneurs #Startups #TampaEats #TampaNightlife #DowntownTampa #TampaEvents #TampaSocials #tampaMagazine #TampaBayMagazine   TampaBusinessClub.com Tampabayconnects.com WomenImpactNetwork.com TampaBayLatinChamber.com InGateConsulting.com Tampa Bay Connects is a community discovery and media platform. We do not organize, host, manage, or operate the events featured on this site. All events, trademarks, logos, photographs, and promotional materials are the property of their respective owners and are displayed for informational and promotional purposes only. Our content is shared to help connect the community with local experiences and is sourced from public event listings, organizers, or official promotional channels. Full credit is given to the original event organizers, and direct links to official event pages are provided whenever available. Inclusion on TampaBayConnects.com does not imply sponsorship, partnership, or endorsement by Tampa Bay Connects, unless explicitly stated.   tampabayconnects

Fine Dining of A5 Wagyu Elegance – Cooking Class by Cozymeal™

Food lovers and culinary enthusiasts are invited to experience a luxury hands-on cooking experience at Fine Dining of A5 Wagyu Elegance – Cooking Class, presented by Cozymeal. This immersive class highlights the artistry of preparing premium A5 Wagyu beef, guided by professional chefs in an intimate, fine-dining–inspired setting. The event is offered on multiple dates, with the exact location provided after booking to registered participants. Attendees will learn refined cooking techniques, plating tips, and flavor pairings while enjoying an elevated culinary experience centered on one of the world’s most prized ingredients. Event Details Event: Fine Dining of A5 Wagyu Elegance – Cooking Class Organizer: Cozymeal™ Location: Provided after booking Dates & Time: Multiple dates available (see registration page for full schedule) Registration Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fine-dining-of-a5-wagyu-elegance-cooking-class-by-cozymealtm-tickets-1829982479859 Follow the Organizer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cozymeal/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cozymeal/ #Tampa #TampaBay #StPete #Clearwater #ThingsToDo #LocalEvents #Networking #TampaBayConnects #TampaNetworking #WomenInBusiness #TampaEntrepreneurs #Startups #TampaEats #TampaNightlife #DowntownTampa #TampaEvents #TampaSocials #tampaMagazine #TampaBayMagazine   TampaBusinessClub.com Tampabayconnects.com WomenImpactNetwork.com TampaBayLatinChamber.com InGateConsulting.com Registration Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fine-dining-of-a5-wagyu-elegance-cooking-class-by-cozymealtm-tickets-1829982479859 Tampa Bay Connects is a community discovery and media platform. We do not organize, host, manage, or operate the events featured on this site. All events, trademarks, logos, photographs, and promotional materials are the property of their respective owners and are displayed for informational and promotional purposes only.   Our content is shared to help connect the community with local experiences and is sourced from public event listings, organizers, or official promotional channels. Full credit is given to the original event organizers, and direct links to official event pages are provided whenever available.   Inclusion on TampaBayConnects.com does not imply sponsorship, partnership, or endorsement by Tampa Bay Connects, unless explicitly stated.   tampabayconnects

Dinner with Christians: Tampa | Giving Back Edition

The Dinner with Christians: Tampa | Giving Back Edition is a community-centered gathering that brings people together for meaningful conversation, fellowship, and service. Organized by Dinner with Christians, this event focuses on connection while supporting local causes through its Giving Back theme. This dinner series takes place in Tampa, Florida, featuring a Restaurant of the Week, giving attendees the opportunity to enjoy a shared meal while supporting local dining establishments. The event is held on multiple dates, with specific restaurant locations, times, and dates provided upon registration. Event Details Event: Dinner with Christians: Tampa | Giving Back Edition Organizer: Dinner with Christians Location: Tampa, FL (Restaurant of the Week – details shared with registrants) Dates & Time: Multiple dates (see registration page for full schedule) Registration Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dinner-with-christians-tampa-giving-back-edition-tickets-1976376628699 Follow the Community Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroes_heroines/ #Tampa #TampaBay #StPete #Clearwater #ThingsToDo #LocalEvents #Networking #TampaBayConnects #TampaNetworking #WomenInBusiness #TampaEntrepreneurs #Startups #TampaEats #TampaNightlife #DowntownTampa #TampaEvents #TampaSocials #tampaMagazine #TampaBayMagazine   TampaBusinessClub.com Tampabayconnects.com WomenImpactNetwork.com TampaBayLatinChamber.com InGateConsulting.com   Registration Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dinner-with-christians-tampa-giving-back-edition-tickets-1976376628699 Tampa Bay Connects is a community discovery and media platform. We do not organize, host, manage, or operate the events featured on this site. All events, trademarks, logos, photographs, and promotional materials are the property of their respective owners and are displayed for informational and promotional purposes only.   Our content is shared to help connect the community with local experiences and is sourced from public event listings, organizers, or official promotional channels. Full credit is given to the original event organizers, and direct links to official event pages are provided whenever available.   Inclusion on TampaBayConnects.com does not imply sponsorship, partnership, or endorsement by Tampa Bay Connects, unless explicitly stated. tampabayconnects

St. Paddy’s Day Lucky Run 5K / 10K / 13.1 – Tampa

Runners of all levels are invited to lace up and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the St. Paddy’s Day Lucky Run 5K / 10K / 13.1 – Tampa, a festive race experience designed to bring together fitness, fun, and a little Irish luck. This event is organized by The Best Races, a group known for hosting themed runs across the country. The race takes place along the scenic Courtney Campbell Trail. Participants can choose from multiple distances—5K, 10K, or half marathon (13.1 miles)—with multiple race dates available. Course maps will be emailed to registered runners prior to race day. Event Details Event: St. Paddy’s Day Lucky Run 5K/10K/13.1 Tampa Organizer: The Best Races Location: Courtney Campbell Trail, Tampa, FL Distances: 5K, 10K, 13.1 (Half Marathon) Dates: Multiple dates available (see registration for options) Course Maps: Sent via email to participants Registration Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/st-paddys-day-lucky-run-5k10k131-tampa-tickets-1981293136105 Race Roster (fundraising option): https://raceroster.com/events/2026/107345/st-paddys-day-lucky-run-5k10k131-atlanta/fundraising-organization/77345 Learn More About the Organizer Website: https://www.thebestraces.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestraces/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebestraces/ #Tampa #TampaBay #StPete #Clearwater #ThingsToDo #LocalEvents #Networking #TampaBayConnects #TampaNetworking #WomenInBusiness #TampaEntrepreneurs #Startups #TampaEats #TampaNightlife #DowntownTampa #TampaEvents #TampaSocials #tampaMagazine #TampaBayMagazine   TampaBusinessClub.com Tampabayconnects.com WomenImpactNetwork.com TampaBayLatinChamber.com InGateConsulting.com Registration Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/st-paddys-day-lucky-run-5k10k131-tampa-tickets-1981293136105   Tampa Bay Connects is a community discovery and media platform. We do not organize, host, manage, or operate the events featured on this site. All events, trademarks, logos, photographs, and promotional materials are the property of their respective owners and are displayed for informational and promotional purposes only.   Our content is shared to help connect the community with local experiences and is sourced from public event listings, organizers, or official promotional channels. Full credit is given to the original event organizers, and direct links to official event pages are provided whenever available.   Inclusion on TampaBayConnects.com does not imply sponsorship, partnership, or endorsement by Tampa Bay Connects, unless explicitly stated. tampabayconnects

Reset & Rise: A New Year Workshop

Tampa Bay Connects is sharing an upcoming personal development and wellness event designed to help participants refocus, reset goals, and step into the new year with clarity and intention. Reset & Rise: A New Year Workshop is organized by Allison Clinical Consulting and offers a supportive space for reflection, growth, and empowerment. 📍 Event Location: The Resource Empowerment Centre 🗓 Date & Time: Friday, February 28 — 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM EST This workshop is facilitated by Emmia Nazarini, and is designed for individuals looking to realign priorities, set meaningful intentions, and build momentum for the year ahead through guided discussion and practical tools. 🎟️ Event Registration: Reserve your spot here: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reset-rise-a-new-year-workshop-tickets-1980922756289?aff=ebdssbdestsearch 🔗 Learn More & Stay Connected: • Organizer Website: https://www.allisonclinicalconsulting.org/ • Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1420918646339183/ • LinkedIn (Facilitator): https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmianazariniarn #Tampa #TampaBay #StPete #Clearwater #ThingsToDo #LocalEvents #Networking #TampaBayConnects #TampaNetworking #WomenInBusiness #TampaEntrepreneurs #Startups #TampaEats #TampaNightlife #DowntownTampa #TampaEvents #TampaSocials #tampaMagazine #TampaBayMagazine   TampaBusinessClub.com Tampabayconnects.com WomenImpactNetwork.com TampaBayLatinChamber.com InGateConsulting.com   🎟️ Event Registration: Reserve your spot here: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reset-rise-a-new-year-workshop-tickets-1980922756289?aff=ebdssbdestsearch Tampa Bay Connects is a community discovery and media platform. We do not organize, host, manage, or operate the events featured on this site. All events, trademarks, logos, photographs, and promotional materials are the property of their respective owners and are displayed for informational and promotional purposes only.   Our content is shared to help connect the community with local experiences and is sourced from public event listings, organizers, or official promotional channels. Full credit is given to the original event organizers, and direct links to official event pages are provided whenever available.   Inclusion on TampaBayConnects.com does not imply sponsorship, partnership, or endorsement by Tampa Bay Connects, unless explicitly stated. tampabayconnects

Volunteer Opportunity: Gasparilla Festival of the Arts – Recycling Team

Tampa Bay Connects is sharing an opportunity for community members to get involved with one of Tampa’s most celebrated cultural events. Gasparilla Arts is seeking volunteers to support its recycling efforts during the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, helping keep the festival sustainable and environmentally friendly. 📍 Event Location: Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park 1001 North Boulevard Tampa, FL 33607, United States 🗓 Dates & Times: Friday, February 28: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM EST Saturday, March 1: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM EST This volunteer opportunity is organized by Gasparilla Arts and focuses on assisting with recycling stations, educating attendees on proper waste disposal, and supporting the festival’s sustainability goals—all while enjoying a vibrant arts atmosphere. 🎟️ Volunteer Registration: Sign up here to participate: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gasparilla-festival-of-the-arts-recycling-volunteer-tickets-1982436980374?aff=ebdssbdestsearch 🔗 Learn More: • Volunteer Info: https://gasparillaarts.com/volunteer/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gasparillaarts/?hl=en #Tampa #TampaBay #StPete #Clearwater #ThingsToDo #LocalEvents #Networking #TampaBayConnects #TampaNetworking #WomenInBusiness #TampaEntrepreneurs #Startups #TampaEats #TampaNightlife #DowntownTampa #TampaEvents #TampaSocials #tampaMagazine #TampaBayMagazine   TampaBusinessClub.com Tampabayconnects.com WomenImpactNetwork.com TampaBayLatinChamber.com InGateConsulting.com   🎟️ Volunteer Registration: Sign up here to participate: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gasparilla-festival-of-the-arts-recycling-volunteer-tickets-1982436980374?aff=ebdssbdestsearch Tampa Bay Connects is a community discovery and media platform. We do not organize, host, manage, or operate the events featured on this site. All events, trademarks, logos, photographs, and promotional materials are the property of their respective owners and are displayed for informational and promotional purposes only.   Our content is shared to help connect the community with local experiences and is sourced from public event listings, organizers, or official promotional channels. Full credit is given to the original event organizers, and direct links to official event pages are provided whenever available.   Inclusion on TampaBayConnects.com does not imply sponsorship, partnership, or endorsement by Tampa Bay Connects, unless explicitly stated. tampabayconnects

EDPA Chapters Collide at EXHIBITORLIVE 2026 – Tampa Networking Event

Tampa Bay Connects is excited to highlight an upcoming professional networking event for event marketers, exhibitors, and industry collaborators! EDPA (Exhibit & Display Professionals Association) is bringing together members from multiple chapters for an evening of connection and conversation at EXHIBITORLIVE 2026. 📍 Location: Jackson’s Bistro, Bar & Sushi of Tampa 📅 Date & Time: Sunday, March 31, 2026 — 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM EDT This event, organized by the EDPA Chapters, invites professionals in the events, exhibits, and trade show industry to mingle, share insights, and build partnerships in a relaxed social setting during the larger EXHIBITORLIVE conference week. 🎟️ Registration: Reserve your spot here: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/edpa-chapters-collide-at-exhibitorlive-2026-tickets-1980717778194?aff=ebdssbdestsearch 📱 Follow for Updates: • Instagram Preview: https://www.instagram.com/p/DUbQ6AOj-pN/ • EDPA Chapter Events Info: https://www.edpa.com/edpa-chapter-events Whether you’re local to Tampa or in town for EXHIBITORLIVE, this is a great opportunity to connect with industry peers over great food and conversation. #Tampa #TampaBay #StPete #Clearwater #ThingsToDo #LocalEvents #Networking #TampaBayConnects #TampaNetworking #WomenInBusiness #TampaEntrepreneurs #Startups #TampaEats #TampaNightlife #DowntownTampa #TampaEvents #TampaSocials #tampaMagazine #TampaBayMagazine   TampaBusinessClub.com Tampabayconnects.com WomenImpactNetwork.com TampaBayLatinChamber.com InGateConsulting.com   👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/edpa-chapters-collide-at-exhibitorlive-2026-tickets-1980717778194?aff=ebdssbdestsearch   Tampa Bay Connects is a community discovery and media platform. We do not organize, host, manage, or operate the events featured on this site. All events, trademarks, logos, photographs, and promotional materials are the property of their respective owners and are displayed for informational and promotional purposes only.   Our content is shared to help connect the community with local experiences and is sourced from public event listings, organizers, or official promotional channels. Full credit is given to the original event organizers, and direct links to official event pages are provided whenever available.   Inclusion on TampaBayConnects.com does not imply sponsorship, partnership, or endorsement by Tampa Bay Connects, unless explicitly stated. tampabayconnects

Building Community Resiliency: Free Event to Strengthen Tampa Bay Neighborhoods

Tampa Bay Connects is pleased to share a meaningful upcoming event focused on community empowerment and wellness. New Directions Ministries is hosting Building Community Resiliency, a free gathering designed to help local residents connect, learn, and develop skills that strengthen individuals and neighborhoods across the region. 📍 Event Location: 6912 E Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 🗓 Date & Time: Saturday, February 28, 2026 — 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM EST This event, organized by New Directions Ministries, aims to promote resiliency by offering practical tools, community resources, and supportive conversations for individuals and families navigating challenges and striving for stability and growth. 🎟️ Registration: Secure your free spot here: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/building-community-resiliency-tickets-1982240178735?aff=ebdssbdestsearch 📱 Learn More & Stay Connected: • New Directions Ministries Website: https://newdirectionsministries.org/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/new.directions.ministries/   #Tampa #TampaBay #StPete #Clearwater #ThingsToDo #LocalEvents #Networking #TampaBayConnects #TampaNetworking #WomenInBusiness #TampaEntrepreneurs #Startups #TampaEats #TampaNightlife #DowntownTampa #TampaEvents #TampaSocials #tampaMagazine #TampaBayMagazine   TampaBusinessClub.com Tampabayconnects.com WomenImpactNetwork.com TampaBayLatinChamber.com InGateConsulting.com   🎟️ Registration: Secure your free spot here: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/building-community-resiliency-tickets-1982240178735?aff=ebdssbdestsearch Tampa Bay Connects is a community discovery and media platform. We do not organize, host, manage, or operate the events featured on this site. All events, trademarks, logos, photographs, and promotional materials are the property of their respective owners and are displayed for informational and promotional purposes only.   Our content is shared to help connect the community with local experiences and is sourced from public event listings, organizers, or official promotional channels. Full credit is given to the original event organizers, and direct links to official event pages are provided whenever available.   Inclusion on TampaBayConnects.com does not imply sponsorship, partnership, or endorsement by Tampa Bay Connects, unless explicitly stated. tampabayconnects

Grrrl Romance Recs Premier Book Signing 2026 — Celebrate Story Lovers in Orlando!

Tampa Bay Connects is excited to highlight an upcoming event for book fans and romance lovers! The FanGrrrl Romance Recs Premier Book Signing (2026) is coming this fall, bringing readers together for author meet-and-greets, signed books, and community fun in the heart of the Disney Springs® area. 📍 Location: Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – Disney Springs® Area 📅 Date & Time: • Thursday, September 10, 2026: 6:30 PM – 12:00 AM • Friday, September 11 & Saturday, September 12, 2026: Event continues through midnight daily This event is organized for romance enthusiasts by FanGrrrl Romance Recs, a passionate community of readers and reviewers celebrating all things romance. Whether you’re into sweet contemporaries, spicy small town stories, or sweeping historicals, this book signing brings together authors and readers for a special weekend of connection and celebration. 🎟️ Register or Get Tickets: Secure your spot for this must-attend book signing here: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fangrrrl-romance-recs-premier-book-signing-2026-tickets-1313163821339?aff=ebdssbdestsearch 📱 Follow Event Updates on Social: • Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1369859788478447/ • Instagram Preview: https://www.instagram.com/p/DTvJu_TiX91/ 📘 Why Attend: Meet romance authors in person Get signed book copies and exclusive merch Connect with fellow readers and book lovers   #Tampa #TampaBay #StPete #Clearwater #ThingsToDo #LocalEvents #Networking #TampaBayConnects #TampaNetworking #WomenInBusiness #TampaEntrepreneurs #Startups #TampaEats #TampaNightlife #DowntownTampa #TampaEvents #TampaSocials #tampaMagazine #TampaBayMagazine   TampaBusinessClub.com Tampabayconnects.com WomenImpactNetwork.com TampaBayLatinChamber.com InGateConsulting.com 🎟️ Register or Get Tickets: Secure your spot for this must-attend book signing here: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fangrrrl-romance-recs-premier-book-signing-2026-tickets-1313163821339?aff=ebdssbdestsearch Tampa Bay Connects is a community discovery and media platform. We do not organize, host, manage, or operate the events featured on this site. All events, trademarks, logos, photographs, and promotional materials are the property of their respective owners and are displayed for informational and promotional purposes only.   Our content is shared to help connect the community with local experiences and is sourced from public event listings, organizers, or official promotional channels. Full credit is given to the original event organizers, and direct links to official event pages are provided whenever available.   Inclusion on TampaBayConnects.com does not imply sponsorship, partnership, or endorsement by Tampa Bay Connects, unless explicitly stated. tampabayconnects