The sounds of cannons and cheers fill the air as Tampa Bay’s famous Pirates Parade begins, attracting a crowd of more than 600,000 people. Among the colorful and fun pirate-themed floats, one float stands out – the world’s first Bitcoin pirate ship proudly flying the Bitcoin Bay Foundation flag. For the first time ever, Bitcoin is part of this historic event, and Bitcoin Bay is making history once again.
When showgoers stop by 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 enthusiasts grow into an organization large enough to earn a spot at Tampa’s biggest celebration?
Growing the Bitcoin Economy in Tampa Bay
The Bitcoin Bay 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 quickly evolved 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 can connect, learn and spend their Bitcoins.
With a clear mission and committed team, Bitcoin Bay quickly gained momentum. The weekly meetups have turned into a powerful network where newcomers, developers and business owners can connect, learn and share ideas. Bitcoin Bay has become more than just a meetup; We have been a source of knowledge and support about Bitcoin in the region.
The 2023 Miami Bitcoin Conference was a watershed moment for The Bay. Competing in the first Bitcoin games against popular meetup groups from all over the country, Bitcoin Bay won the grand prize of 1 BTC. But instead of keeping the entire prize, we chose to share half of it with other Bitcoin meetups in a follow-up contest.
At the time, we had no idea what the implications would be. We have since consulted with and inspired other groups to undertake similar tasks. Denver Bitdevs, one of the beneficiaries, has opened its own Bitcoin community center called “The Space.” By sharing our award, we showed that Bitcoin Bay exists not only for our growth but to support Bitcoin communities everywhere.
By the end of 2023, we became the first Bitcoin-only meetup in the world to achieve 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. This recognition has helped us grow larger and allowed us to reach more people in the Tampa Bay area.
Building a strong and supportive community
Since the beginning, Bitcoin Bay has made a real impact across Tampa Bay. Our members support each other’s 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 depend on each other.
One of our proudest accomplishments was hosting Sound Money Soiree, our first charity event attended by 120 people, including business leaders, Bitcoin users and community leaders. Together we have raised nearly $30,000 to support our mission. These funds went toward expanding our reach and growing our community, helping us make an even greater impact in Tampa Bay.
Education is a key part of Bitcoin Bay’s mission. Through partnerships with the University of Tampa and the University of South Florida, we provide Bitcoin education to students. We offer guest lectures, internships, and this summer, we’re hosting our first Bitcoin summer camps. By investing in the next generation, we are ensuring that the potential for Bitcoin in Tampa Bay continues to grow.
Our community’s resilience was tested when Hurricanes Helen and Milton struck. Bitcoin Bay members quickly came together to help. Volunteers formed clean-up teams to remove debris, while others helped coordinate food, water and gas for those in need. This showed 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 Pirate Floating Ship sails into Bitcoin Bay on the Gasparilla Parade route, it’s more than just 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 the 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 just an organization; it is a movement that is shaping the future of our local community and beyond.”
To learn more about the Bitcoin Bay Foundation, Gasparilla event details, and how you can get involved in their community efforts, please visit:
* Website: bitcoinbay.foundation
* Twitter: @bitcoinbaytpa
* We have: npub1tampasjf5z0rllvrh8nlqckrjtzzj9590uljzeuu6ymsr8hq9pjsrw0ynt
*Email: Wesley@bitcoinbay.foundation
Together, we’re building a better future with Bitcoin. We invite all Bitcoin users to join us on this exciting journey and make history with us!
This is a guest post by Bitcoin Bay Foundation. The opinions expressed are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of BTC Inc or Bitcoin Magazine.
The post Making Waves in Tampa Bay: Bitcoin Bay Foundation Joins the Gasparilla Parade of Pirates first appeared on Investorempires.com.