Middleton is growing fast — and with that growth comes an opportunity that most communities miss: the chance to build something intentional before the noise takes over.
There were talented professionals, dedicated business owners, and passionate operators all around Middleton — but no real space for them to find each other. No community. No referral network built on trust. Just people working hard in isolation, hoping word would get around.
"Strong businesses are built on strong connections. We built Middleton Networking to be that connection."
Middleton Networking launched in February 2026 with a simple belief: referrals should come from real relationships, not awkward pitches or spammy messages. The first event at 24 Middleton exceeded every expectation — the room was electric, and a monthly tradition was born.
The Middleton Business Directory is the next chapter. A permanent, AI-powered home for every local business in the community. Built to help locals find who they need, and help businesses get found by the people they serve.
Originally from the Tampa Bay area, Ty served in the Marine Corps for 5 years and earned his business degree from the University of South Florida. He now calls the Middleton area home. His reason for starting this is simple — he wants to build a thriving business community, and highlight the businesses within it so everyone can grow together.
Shelbi grew up right here — a Villages Charter School 2014 alumna who went on to earn her nursing degree from Emory University. She has spent her career showing up for people, working alongside veterans and investing in the communities around her. Having roots in this area, she co-founded Middleton Networking out of genuine care for the place she grew up in and the people building their lives here.
Collaboration over competition.
Community over competition.
This group exists to foster collaboration over competition, create opportunity through community, and provide a space where local companies can genuinely connect and grow together.
Middleton Networking hosted its first event at 24 Middleton on February 19th, 6–8 PM. The turnout exceeded every expectation. The Villages Daily Sun was in attendance. A monthly event was announced.
The Middleton Business Directory goes live — the first AI-powered local business directory built for our community. Founding member spots open to the first 100 businesses.
Monthly networking events bring together professionals from real estate, healthcare, technology, legal, marketing, construction, and more. If you're building something in Middleton — you should be in the room.
Be part of what we're building
Get your business listed in the directory, come to the next networking event, and connect with the people building things right here in Middleton.