Cannon fire and cheers ring out as Tampa Bay's famous Pirate Gasparilla Parade begins, drawing more than 600,000 spectators. 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. Bitcoin Bay is once again making history as Bitcoin becomes part of this historic event for the first time ever.
When parade participants stop by the Bitcoin Bay tent along the parade route, they will be provided with food and beverages 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 be a part of Tampa's biggest celebration?
Growing the Bitcoin Economy in Tampa Bay
Bitcoin Bay's journey began in October 2021 when one of its founders, @bennyhodl, hosted the first Bitdevs meetup. It started with a few people discussing Bitcoin outside a local restaurant, but quickly grew into something much bigger. We had a vision for Bitcoin Bay to be the home for all Bitcoin in Tampa Bay. We wanted to create a local Bitcoin-powered economy where people can connect, learn, and spend Bitcoin.
With a clear mission and a dedicated team, Bitcoin Bay quickly gained momentum. 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 resource for Bitcoin knowledge and support in the region.
The 2023 Miami Bitcoin Conference was a turning point for The Bay. Competing against grassroots meetup groups from all over the country in the 1st Bitcoin Game, Bitcoin Bay won the grand prize of 1 BTC. However, rather than keep the entire prize money, we decided to share half of it with other Bitcoin meetups in a subsequent contest.
At the time, we didn't know what kind of ramifications this would have. Since then, we have consulted and inspired other groups to undertake similar missions. One of the recipients, Denver Bitdevs, has launched its own Bitcoin community hub called “The Space.” By sharing the award, we showed that Bitcoin Bay exists not just for our own growth, but to support the Bitcoin community everywhere.
By the end of 2023, we became the world's first Bitcoin-only meetup with 501(c)(3) non-profit status. This recognition allows us to grow further and reach more people in the Tampa Bay area.
Building a strong and supportive community
Bitcoin Bay has had a huge impact on all of Tampa Bay since its inception. Our members support each other's businesses, including HVAC services, estate planning, and even local beef suppliers. Our ethos of community, prosperity and resilience guides us as we build connected networks where people can trust each other.
One of our proudest achievements was hosting our first charity gala, the Sound Money Soiree, which was attended by 120 people, including business leaders, Bitcoiners, and community leaders. Together, we raised nearly $30,000 to support our mission. This funding will be used to expand our reach and grow our community, helping us make a bigger impact in Tampa Bay.
Education is a major part of Bitcoin Bay's mission. Through our partnerships with the University of Tampa and the University of South Florida, we offer Bitcoin education to students. We offer guest lectures, internships, and will be hosting our first Bitcoin Summer Camp this summer. By investing in the next generation, we are ensuring Bitcoin's potential continues to grow in Tampa Bay.
The resiliency of our community was tested when Hurricanes Helen and Milton struck. Bitcoin Bay members were quick to help. Volunteers formed cleanup teams to remove debris, while others helped arrange food, water and gas for those in need. This showed that Bitcoin Bay's mission to build a strong and resilient community is not just a word, it's a way of life.
Looking to the future: The journey continues
The Bitcoin Bay Pirate Float sailing along the Gasparilla Parade route isn't just a celebration, it's a message. 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're excited to bring Bitcoin to the Gasparilla Parade and share our mission with Tampa Bay,” said President Wesley Schlemmer. “Bitcoin Bay is more than just an organization, it’s a movement shaping the future of our local community and beyond.”
Learn more about the Bitcoin Bay Foundation, Gasparilla events, and how you can get involved in the community effort below.
* Website: bitcoinbay.foundation
* Twitter:@bitcoinbaytpa
* Number: npub1tampasjf5z0rllvrh8nlqckrjtzzj9590uljzeuu6YSr8hq9pjsrw0ynt
* Email: Wesley@bitcoinbay.foundation
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 by Bitcoin Bay Foundation. The opinions expressed are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of BTC Inc or Bitcoin Magazine.
