The Miami Open 2025 wasn’t just about world-class tennis this year—it also served as the perfect backdrop for the first-ever tech night, “Serve & Network,” hosted by South Florida Tech Hub. Held on March 20th at the Hard Rock Stadium, the event brought together over 200 tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders from across the region for an evening of networking, innovation, and thrilling tennis action. The Tech Night was supported by presenting sponsor, Google Fiber.
Left to Right: Players Joao Fonseca and Learner Tien with GFiber representative, Melissa Alvarez, during the on-court coin toss.
Google Fiber, Inc., or “GFiber,” is a fiber broadband Internet service operated by Alphabet Inc. servicing a growing number of households in cities in 19 states across the United States. In mid-2016, Google Fiber was estimated to have about 453,000 broadband customers. Launched back in 2012, GFiber built fiber networks and offered customers some of the first residential gigabit speeds with a 1 Gig product at $70. In 2019, the company launched a 2 Gig product. Today, Google Fiber continues to push the multi-gigabit speeds with 5 and 8 Gig products and are even testing a 20 Gig product. New to South Florida, GFiber has added tons of new addresses in Miami — and there’s more to come.
“GFiber was excited to help create a space for professionals to connect, share ideas, and explore new opportunities,” shared GFiber Senior Success Manager, Melissa Alvarez. “It was great to be part of such a vibrant event, and we’re looking forward to supporting more growth in the tech community!”
As part of South Florida Tech Hub’s focus on Sports Tech in Q1 2025, Serve & Network was designed to merge the worlds of technology and sports, offering attendees a unique opportunity to connect while experiencing one of the largest and most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world.
The evening kicked off with an exclusive VIP networking session in the comfy Bodega Lounge, sponsored by Delta Airlines and CITY Furniture, featuring representatives from leading tech companies, startups, and investors. Attendees enjoyed refreshments and engaging conversations in a private lounge area overlooking the courts, setting the stage for meaningful connections and potential collaborations. Guests were also abnle to enjoy a virtual reality tennis experience for some added entertainment.
CITY Furniture team watches tennis matches.
“CITY Furniture supports events like South Florida Tech Hub’s Tech Night at Miami Open because they bring the tech community together in a fun and authentic way. Getting outside of traditional tech settings allows for real connections that spark lasting relationships,” shared Rebecca Bakels, Software Engineer & Tech Community Advocate at CITY Furniture. “Tech Night showcases what makes the South Florida tech community so special. We have access to incredible venues and events where we can connect and collaborate in an accessible and affordable way.” She continued, “It’s a privilege to have these opportunities right in our own backyard.”
With a strong turnout of over 200 attendees, Serve & Network showcased the power of South Florida’s growing tech ecosystem. From startup founders and developers to investors and corporate executives, the diversity of attendees highlighted the region’s collaborative spirit and commitment to innovation. Following the networking session, guests had the opportunity to enjoy live matches at the Miami Open, witnessing some of the world’s top tennis players compete under the lights of the Hard Rock Stadium. Additional sponsors included 35 Mules, innovation hub powered by FPL, and JetStor, eMerge Americas, ISASA South Florida, SIM South Florida and Mana Tech.
Given the overwhelming success of Serve & Network, there is already buzz about making this an annual event at the Miami Open. By bridging the gap between technology, sports, and business networking, South Florida Tech Hub continues to position itself as a leader in fostering innovation and community growth.
📸 Check out event PHOTOS HERE.