Connect
Our Connect events bring young professionals together in a relaxed, welcoming environment to expand their network, exchange ideas, and build relationships with peers, business leaders, and community influencers.
Young professionals, ages 21–40
Next Up Columbia Connect. Develop. Serve.
Built for professionals ages 21–40, the program creates meaningful opportunities to build relationships, strengthen leadership skills, and engage directly with the businesses and organizations shaping our region’s future.
Why join
More than networking — a pathway to leadership.
Through a mix of networking events, leadership development sessions, and community involvement opportunities, Next Up Columbia helps participants grow both personally and professionally while staying plugged into what’s happening across Columbia County.
Next Up Columbia is designed for professionals who want to do more than simply advance their careers — they want to become leaders in their workplaces and throughout the community.
Whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong resident, Next Up provides a place to connect with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and create opportunities that benefit both your career and the communities we call home.
Member benefits
Exclusive networking events
Professional development workshops
Leadership opportunities
Community service projects
Access to local business leaders
Lasting personal and professional relationships
Connect. Develop. Serve.
Three kinds of events, one community of emerging leaders.
Develop
Develop events feature engaging speakers, interactive workshops, and skill-building sessions — from leadership and communication to financial wellness and emerging technologies.
Serve
Through Serve events, members work alongside local nonprofits and community organizations to make a meaningful difference across the Florida Gateway region.
Ready to take your next step?
Join Next Up Columbia and get plugged into the people shaping the Florida Gateway region.