The sounds of cannons and cheers fill the air as Tampa Bay's famous Gasparilla Pirate Parade begins, drawing a crowd of more than 600,000. Among the colorful floats and pirate-themed fun, one float stands out: the world's first bitcoin pirate ship proudly flying the flag of the bitcoin Bay Foundation. For the first time, bitcoin is part of this historic event and bitcoin Bay makes history again.
As parade-goers pass the bitcoin Bay tent along the parade route, they are greeted with food, drinks, and an invitation to learn more about this mission-driven organization. But how did bitcoin Bay get here? How did a small group of bitcoin fans grow into an organization large enough to earn a spot at Tampa's biggest celebration?
How to Grow a bitcoin Economy in Tampa Bay
bitcoin Bay's journey began in October 2021 when one of our founders, @bennyhodl, hosted the first Bitdevs meetup. It started with a few people talking about bitcoin outside a local restaurant, but it soon turned into something much bigger. We had a vision: to make bitcoin Bay the go-to place for all things bitcoin in Tampa Bay. We wanted to create a local economy powered by bitcoin, where people could connect, learn and spend their bitcoins.
With a clear mission and a committed team, bitcoin Bay quickly gained traction. The weekly meetings became a strong network where newcomers, developers, and business owners could connect, learn, and share ideas. bitcoin Bay became more than just a meeting; We were a resource for bitcoin knowledge and support in the region.
The 2023 Miami bitcoin Conference was a defining moment for The Bay. By competing in the first bitcoin Games against grassroots meetup groups from across the country, bitcoin Bay won the grand prize of 1 btc. But instead of keeping the full prize, we decided to share half with other bitcoin meetups in a follow-up competition.
At the time, we had no idea what the repercussions of this would be. Since then, we have consulted and inspired other groups to take on similar missions. Denver Bitdevs, one of the recipients, even opened its own bitcoin community center called “The Space.” By sharing our prize, we show that bitcoin Bay is here not only for our own growth but also to support bitcoin communities everywhere.
In late 2023, we became the world's first bitcoin-only gathering to receive 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. This recognition helped us grow even more and allowed us to reach more people in the Tampa Bay area.
Building a strong and supportive community
From the beginning, bitcoin Bay has had a real impact throughout Tampa Bay. Our members support each other in businesses, such as HVAC services, estate planning, and even local beef suppliers. Our spirit of community, prosperity and resilience guides us as we build a connected network where people can trust each other.
One of our proudest accomplishments was hosting Sound Money Soiree, our first charity gala attended by 120 people, including business leaders, Bitcoiners, and community leaders. Together, we raised nearly $30,000 to support our mission. This money has gone toward expanding our reach and growing our community, helping us make a greater impact in Tampa Bay.
Education is an important part of bitcoin Bay's mission. Through partnerships with the University of Tampa and the University of South Florida, we bring bitcoin education to students. We offer guest lectures, internships and this summer we will host our first bitcoin summer camps. By investing in the next generation, we ensure the potential of bitcoin continues to grow in Tampa Bay.
Our community's resilience was tested when Hurricanes Helene and Milton hit. bitcoin Bay members quickly rallied to help. Volunteers formed cleanup teams to remove debris, while others helped coordinate food, water and gas for those in need. This proved that bitcoin Bay's mission to build a strong and resilient community is more than just words – it's a way of life.
Looking to the future: the journey continues
As the bitcoin Bay pirate float navigates the Gasparilla Parade route, it's more than a celebration – it's a statement. We are here to build, educate and empower. This float represents a year of hard work, resilience and community spirit, and marks the beginning of our next chapter.
“We are excited to bring bitcoin to the Gasparilla Parade and share our mission with Tampa Bay,” says President Wesley Schlemmer. “bitcoin Bay is more than an organization; it is a movement that shapes the future of our local community and beyond.”
To learn more about the bitcoin Bay Foundation, Gasparilla event details, and how you can participate in their community efforts, visit:
* Website: bitcoinbay.foundation
* twitter: @bitcoinbaytpa
*Our: npub1tampasjf5z0rllvrh8nlqckrjtzzj9590uljzeuu6ymsr8hq9pjsrw0ynt
* Email: [email protected]
Together, we are building a better future with bitcoin. We invite all Bitcoiners to join us on this exciting journey and make history with us!
This is a guest post from the bitcoin Bay Foundation. The opinions expressed are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of btc Inc or bitcoin Magazine.
