Are you a GrowFL Florida Company to Watch?

We’re proud of what you have achieved, but we know you are always striving for more. GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch recognizes second-stage companies in Florida that are making a significant impact. Tell us about your track record of innovation, growth, and community involvement that makes you a contender for this prestigious award.

Download an example application to prepare to apply. 

Here’s what sets a GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch apart:

  • Impressive Growth: Have you seen significant growth in both revenue and employees in recent years?
  • Innovation at Your Core: Are you constantly developing new and creative ways to run your business, develop products and services, or recognize your employees?
  • Giving Back to Your Community: How have you been a positive force in your community?

Do you think you have what it takes?

The application period for the 15th Annual GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch is now open. Applications close June 30, 2025. Together, let’s keep pushing the boundaries and make a lasting impact!

Qualifications

  • Company must be privately-owned and headquartered in Florida. This award is designed to recognize and celebrate the success of second-stage companies in the state.
  • Have between 6 and 150 full-time equivalent employees in 2024. This ensures the company is past the startup phase but not yet a large corporation.
  • Have between $750,000 and $100 million in annual revenue or working capital from investors or grants in 2024. This indicates that the company is financially stable and has room for growth.
  • Have not won this award in the past. Once an honoree, always an honoree. Companies that have won in the past, are invited to apply for the Alumni Award. Alumni Award applications open in October.
  • Demonstrate an intent and capacity to grow. This is the most subjective criteria and is assessed based on a number of factors, including:
    • Employee or sales growth
    • Exceptional entrepreneurial leadership
    • Sustainable competitive advantage
    • Other notable factors that showcase the company’s success

Judging Process for GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch

There are two rounds of judging.

  • Round 1: All applications will be reviewed and judged during the first round. Finalists will be selected after Round 1 judging.
  • Round 2: All Finalist companies will then move on to Round 2 and be judged by a select panel of economic development, education, and entrepreneurial leaders throughout Florida. Companies will also undergo significant due diligence before being selected as honorees of the 15th Annual GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Award.
Key Dates
  • May 1, 2025 – Applications Open
  • June 13, 2025 – Application Site Registration Deadline
  • June 30, 2025– Application Submission Deadline
  • August 8, 2025 – Virtual Finalist Announcement
  • September 2025 – Finalist Recognition Month with events in Northeast, Tampa Bay, Southeast and East Central Florida
  • September 30, 2025 – Honorees Announced
  • February 25, 2026 – GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Leadership Institute
  • February 26, 2026 – Awards Gala at Hard Rock Live, CityWalk, Orlando, FL