Aakash Patel is a business consultant and civic leader whose work brings together entrepreneurship, community engagement, and leadership development in the Tampa Bay region. He founded a consulting company that helps organizations strengthen their presence, tell their stories, and build relationships in the community. Through this firm, he focuses on steady guidance rather than quick wins. His work is rooted in listening, connecting people, and encouraging collaboration so both businesses and neighborhoods benefit over the long term.
Aakash launched his consulting firm in 2012 as a strategic business company centered on public relations, community relations, targeted networking, and social media support. Through this work, he has assisted more than 350 organizations in forming connections that turn into opportunities. Earlier in his career, he gained experience as an editorial assistant in a state capital news bureau and as a public relations coordinator for a waterfront hotel and restaurant, where he learned how clear communication helps build trust.
Patel extended his business development skills into the digital space when he became the founding business development director for a professional networking website. During his time in that role, the platform grew from a small group of early members into an online community of more than one million users. The experience deepened his understanding of how technology, networking, and consistent outreach can work together. It also strengthened his belief that strong relationships are built through long-term effort.
Aakash Patel has devoted a significant part of his career to education, early learning, and workforce preparation. His commitment was recognized in 2021 when he was appointed to the board of trustees of a community college district for a four-year term. Since 2014, he has also served as chairman of an early learning coalition in his county, supporting programs that give young children a strong start. These responsibilities reflect his view that education at every stage creates opportunity for families and communities.
Aakash has contributed his experience to advisory and governance boards focused on economic development, banking, tourism, and nonprofit strategy. He has served on regional economic development and visitor-focused boards that work closely with community leaders and elected officials. Through these roles, he has supported efforts to strengthen local business growth, education, and job creation. His participation is guided by a practical focus on long-term community health and on helping different groups find common ground.
Patel stays involved in leadership and public safety programs that encourage civic understanding. He has participated in regional leadership groups and citizens’ academies focused on homeland security and federal investigations, gaining a deeper understanding of how public agencies serve the community.
