How It Works

Helping Local Entrepreneurs Start, Grow, and Thrive

The THRIVE Incubator Series delivers hands-on education, expert guidance, and access to local business incentives that help startups and small businesses succeed in Alachua.

Register for Workshops

Entrepreneurs join the THRIVE Incubator Series by registering for upcoming workshops. Businesses at any stage are welcome.

Learn from Local Experts

Attend hands-on, expert-led workshops covering essential topics like marketing, finance, operations, and business growth.

Access Tools, Resources & Incentives

Gain practical tools you can use right away and get connected to local resources and City of Alachua business incentive opportunities that support business development.

Grow with Community Support

Build meaningful connections with fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and partners—creating momentum and support beyond the program.

Image of people at a Thrive Series Workshop

Business Incubator Incentives

The City of Alachua offers incentives to businesses in Good Life Station’s THRIVE Incubator, from entry to graduation.

Learn more

2026 THRIVE Series Workshops

Unlock your business potential with the THRIVE Series Workshops at Good Life Station. Designed for founders, small business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs, this hands-on workshop series brings together experienced local leaders and experts to share practical strategies in everything from marketing and AI implementation to mindset and business growth. Each session offers actionable insights, networking opportunities, and real tools you can use to grow your venture—right in the heart of our community.

Lights, Camera, Action: How to Use Video for Business Growth Presented by Vanessa Vargas Wilson

In this session, Vanessa will share valuable tips and ideas on how to effectively incorporate video into your business strategy for maximum growth. From creating engaging product videos to showcasing your brand's unique personality with behind-the-scenes footage, this workshop will include loads of tips and ideas. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from a video marketing expert and creative business owner who has been producing and editing online videos for 15+ years!

Date: January 20th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

February Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Boaz Santiago & Amy Cosper

Date: February 17th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

March Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Laurence Andrews

Date: March 17th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

April Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Marc Evitt

Date: April 21st, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

May Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by John Spence

Date: May 19th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

June Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Joe Hancock

Date: June 16th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

July Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Brad Gamble, Melissa Hough

Date: July 21st, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

August Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Teddy Sanchez

Date: August 18th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

September Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Scott Schroeder

Date: September 15th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

October Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Shelley Vickers

Date: October 20th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

November Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by James Coats

Date: November 17th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

December Thrive Series Workshop More Information Coming Soon

Presented by Quang Tran

Date: December 15th, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Good Life Station

Meet Our Speakers

Meet the experienced entrepreneurs, business leaders, and industry experts who power the Thrive Entrepreneur Series. Our speakers bring real-world insight, practical strategies, and a passion for helping others grow and succeed.

Teddy Sanchez

Teddy is an award-winning innovator and CTO of Optimal Station, leading advancements in automation, robotics, and smart city solutions. Recognized as one of Automatic Merchandiser’s “Pros to Know,” he pioneers technologies that enhance connectivity, sustainability, and user experience, while mentoring the next generation of leaders.

Joe Hancock

Joe is the creative force behind Moxie Media Alachua, a premier video production company known for transforming ideas into powerful visual stories. With a passion for pushing creative boundaries, Joe takes pride in bringing each client’s vision to life through innovation, collaboration, and excellence. Their growing portfolio showcases a rich diversity of work—each piece a testament to Moxie Media’s signature energy, craftsmanship, and heart for storytelling.

Boaz Santiago

Boaz is an experienced entrepreneur and problem-solver with over 25 years of expertise. With a strong background in marketing, he has helped businesses and organizations grow by crafting creative strategies, building strong networks, and finding solutions that drive results. Boaz’s entrepreneurial spirit and ability to think outside the box make him a valuable resource for both business and community growth.

Quang Tran

Quang Tran is an entrepreneur and mentor dedicated to helping startups build strong teams, great products, and lasting companies. As co-founder of LaunchPad at Infinity Hall and Starter Space, he has played a key role in shaping Gainesville’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and serves on the board of the Gainesville Tech Council.

Laurence Andrews

Laurence has over 20 years of experience in strategy and consulting, supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in the U.S. and the Caribbean. He currently serves as Program Coordinator for the Bradford County Incubator, helping local innovators grow their ideas into thriving ventures.

Shelley Vickers

Shelley is a strategic growth leader and community connector, building brands and relationships where marketing meets purpose and opportunity. With experience in the construction and nonprofit sectors, she brings expertise in marketing, operations, and event management, backed by a BBA in Marketing from Saint Leo University.

James Coats

James is a seasoned entrepreneur, community leader, and CEO of Phalanx Defense Systems. As Executive Director of Community Engagement & Continuing Education at Santa Fe College, he combines business expertise, creativity, and community passion to drive economic growth and inspire the next generation of leaders in North Florida.

Vanessa Vargas Wilson

Vanessa Vargas Wilson, known as The Crafty Gemini, is a creative entrepreneur and former college law professor who built a 7-figure business by using strategic video content to grow an organic audience of over 1 million followers—without paid ads. She now teaches creatives and small business owners how to use simple, video-first marketing to build trust, increase visibility, and convert viewers into paying customers.

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Amy Cosper

Stay tuned to learn more about Amy!

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Marc Evitt

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John Spence

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Brad Gamble

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Melissa Hough

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Scott Schroeder

Stay tuned to learn more about Scott!