The Home Watch Academy actively supports entrepreneurs, business owners, and emerging leaders through ongoing involvement in events, education, and community initiatives.
Events, Networking & Community
Education does not stop when a student completes a course.
Through special events, Pop-Up Lunch & Learns, networking opportunities, guest speakers, business tours, and entrepreneurial gatherings, the Home Watch Academy provides students, graduates, and Certified Home Watch Reporters with opportunities to continue learning, build relationships, and expand their perspectives.
These events bring together business owners, subject-matter experts, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders who share practical insights, real-world experiences, and valuable lessons to help Home Watch business owners grow both personally and professionally.
A key part of this initiative is our collaboration with JD Ribali, founder of BizKidz USA and the GROW Business Network. JD is a Home Watch Academy graduate who has successfully built his own business while creating opportunities for others through entrepreneurship, leadership, and community engagement.
The Home Watch Academy is proud to support BizKidz USA, an organization dedicated to introducing young people to entrepreneurship through hands-on learning, creativity, leadership development, and real-world business experiences. We believe investing in the next generation of entrepreneurs is an investment in the future of our communities.
Whether attending a Home Watch Academy event, participating in SWFL Entrepreneur Connect, supporting BizKidz USA, or connecting with fellow graduates, these opportunities are designed to encourage learning, collaboration, and meaningful relationships.
Because business growth often begins with a conversation, a new idea, or a connection made in the right room.
Step in, get connected, and grow alongside other entrepreneurs.
Naples Area Pop-Up Lunch and Learn
Friday, June 12
Time: 11:00am - 1:00pm
Rebecca's Restaurant and Bar
An exclusive gathering for Home Watch Academy Graduates and Certified Home Watch Reporters featuring entrepreneur Rebecca Maddox. Join us for lunch, networking, Home Watch training, meaningful conversations, and insights from one of Naples' most accomplished business leaders.
Seating is very limited for this one-of-a-kind event.
Ticket information is available in the Community Section of the graduates' Home Watch Academy Dashboard
LIMITED SEATING - Don't Delay!
51/49 Advantage Training Call Schedule
Tuesdays, June 9 and 16
9:00am EDT
Home Watch Academy Private ZOOM Room
The concept behind the 51/49 Advantage is simple: the 51% represents the education, support, systems, guidance, and resources provided by the Home Watch Academy. The 49% represents the effort, participation, action, and commitment brought by the business owner. Together, it creates a true collaboration focused on growth and long-term success.
These sessions are designed to help business owners strengthen operations, improve communication, attract more clients, and continue building a structured and professional Home Watch business. Topics may include sales, marketing, risk management, homeowner education, industry trends, business systems, and open discussion with fellow business owners. Training webinars are recorded. These modules and much more continuing education are available in the Graduate Resource Library.
Exclusive to Home Watch Academy Graduates and Certified Home Watch Reporters.
Biz Kidz Pitch Contest
Thursday, July 23
Babcock Ranch
The Biz Kidz Hub is excited to announce the Biz Kidz Pitch Contest at Babcock Ranch in partnership with MoAloo Ventures and the SWFL Rotary - Southwest Florida Rotary Club.
Young entrepreneurs ages 7–21 will have the opportunity to pitch their business ideas, showcase their creativity, and compete for over $700 in cash prizes to help launch and grow their businesses.
Registration is required and can only be completed through the Biz Kidz website.
Whether you already have a business or just an amazing idea, this is your chance to step up, pitch with confidence, and inspire the community.
Follow us for updates, contest details, and event announcements. The future of entrepreneurship starts now!
https://www.bizkidzusa.org/events
Entrepreneur Connect Power Lunch
The Entrepreneur Connect Power Lunch is a special Pop-Up event presented in partnership with the GROW Business Network.
Held a few times each year, these gatherings bring together business owners, professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an engaging experience that blends networking, learning, inspiration, and practical business insights.
Featured guests may include successful entrepreneurs, authors, community leaders, and subject matter experts who are willing to share their experiences, lessons learned, and perspectives on business growth, leadership, innovation, and opportunity.
Whether you are looking to expand your network, gain fresh ideas, or simply spend time with other growth-minded professionals, the Entrepreneur Connect Power Lunch is designed to deliver meaningful connections and valuable takeaways.
Future Power Lunch events are currently being planned. Check back often for upcoming dates, featured guests, and special announcements.
You never know which conversation, idea, or connection may influence your next chapter.
