Investor Spotlight: Nitro Solutions
July 19, 2016
Nitro Solutions is an award-winning software and technology development firm that creates unique, customized solutions that deliver clients a game-changing competitive advantage.
Nitro specializes in business process optimization to increase your company’s productivity, efficiency and revenue. They identify cost efficiencies by utilizing technology to streamline operations and transform business. Nitro’s innovative technology and unique software solutions save you time, money, and a whole lot of headaches.
Founded in 2009, Nitro is headquartered in downtown Tampa, Florida. Nitro has been recognized as one of the top small businesses in America by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and earned titles such as “Technology Company of the Year” from the Tampa Bay Technology Forum, and “Best Place to Work” from the Tampa Bay Business Journal. Nitro is also a member of Inc. Magazine’s “Inc. 500,” boasting a three-year growth rate of 1,797 percent.
With more than 20 years of experience in software development and strategic business practices, Founder & CEO Pete Slade’s mission is to help enterprises streamline and optimize operations through technological innovation. Slade has expertise in a range of technical operating systems, languages, and databases, and
holds numerous technology patents. He is a member of the CEO Council of Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Technology Forum, and the Tampa Innovation Alliance.
A recent addition to the EDC’s Executive Committee, Slade shares his thoughts on the Tampa community and what it’s like to grow a business here.
1. Those of us who live here know that Hillsborough County is a great place to live and work. When you are recruiting top talent from out of market, what aspects of our community are often cited as positive factors influencing their decision to come here?
For starters, Tampa is among some of the fastest growing metro areas in the United States. We’ve been named the best city in Florida to start a career. I think people enjoy that feeling of “getting in on the ground floor” of something. They want to see their contribution and feel their own impact on where they live. Hillsborough County is growing and developing, and people want to be a part of this community. The cost of living and doing business in Tampa is also below the national average and lower than a lot of other large metro areas, which I think is another factor drawing people here.
2. What is your favorite aspect of living in Tampa Bay?
I love the sense of community here and the possibilities for business owners. It feels like everyone is really rooting for each other.
Given the nature of our business, we could have started Nitro anywhere but we really fell in love with Tampa, the people, and the culture. It’s our home — we wanted to stay and grow with it, expand together.
Tampa also provides a community where you don’t really have to compromise. It’s a great place to work, raise a family, and there’s plenty to do.
3. Where do you derive the most benefit for yourself and your company as an Investor in the EDC?
Having access to the EDC’s resources and being provided the opportunity to meet with other business leaders is invaluable for Nitro. Having that platform and support system to discuss business methods, ideology, and growth strategies with the EDC and other Tampa leaders is extremely helpful in expanding Nitro and Tampa Bay as a whole.
4. How has the EDC played a role in helping your business succeed in Tampa and Hillsborough County?
The EDC was really helpful by assisting us with permitting when we moved into our new office downtown. They’ve also been a great resource for us with hiring assistance and opening our news up to their media channels to help gain maximum exposure.
In addition, they’ve given us an opportunity to discuss business and the growth of Tampa with other business leaders here. The platform they provide for everyone to meet, share ideas, and invest in the region to help shape its growth is incredible.
5. What is the number one thing you believe will impact our region’s competitiveness in the coming decade?
I think the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit here will be a big factor in solidifying our region as business leaders in the coming decade. All the new development and business growth in the area is making people take notice. There really isn’t another place like Tampa Bay.
