Company will produce and distribute American-made tungsten heavy alloy solutions to support defense industry

With assistance from Pinellas County Economic Development, Astaras, Inc. expanded its operations by opening a new manufacturing facility in Pinellas County, Florida. The expansion represents a $2.5 million capital investment, and the facility is expected to operate around the clock at full capacity, creating local job opportunities for skilled professionals. Astaras will use the new space to produce and distribute tungsten heavy alloy materials that are critical components in industries ranging from defense and aerospace, to automotive and medical. 

Turning a Passion for Children’s Literature into a Thriving Business

For one lifelong educator, a love of children’s books blossomed into a business that is now inspiring young readers across St. Petersburg. Megan Kotsko, owner of The Story Garden, opened her bookstore with a simple yet powerful mission: to provide children from birth through age 12 with a space to discover stories, creativity, and the joy of reading. The store carries a wide variety of fiction, nonfiction, art supplies, and activity books—everything connected to sparking imagination in children.

Pinellas Manufacturing Summit, Oct. 29

Join manufacturing industry leaders, innovators, and professionals for this 4th annual event in Pinellas Park. The Summit will include: keynote speakers, panel discussions, networking, and a showcase of cutting-edge products and technologies.

This two-day virtual program brings together experts from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Industry & Security, OFAC, DDTC, and U.S. Customs & Border Protection to provide training on export filing requirements.