Are start-ups eligible?
Start-ups that meet the eligibility requirements may apply. Revenue can include equity investments and grants, in addition to sales receipts.
Are franchisees eligible?
Franchisees are technically eligible if they are wholly owned and operated. Some franchises typically don’t fare very well in this competition if the local owner does not have complete autonomy to lead or grow the business (e.g., branding, innovating solutions, branching out). Franchisors operate differently, so if the business owner can be entrepreneurial in approach and isn’t bound by the franchisor in strategizing for growth, then it’s worth a shot. [...]
How is financial information used?
Please be assured that we exercise numerous measures to ensure the information you provide is kept confidential and used only to select awardees. Information provided in the application, including the financials, is used to determine if a company is eligible for the award and to gauge a company’s growth factors. Without this information, judges have no way to determine your eligibility. Moreover, judges sign a nondisclosure agreement before they begin [...]
May we provide product samples, customer testimonials, or other exhibits?
We are unable to accept materials other than your application. However, refer to these materials or quote from them to support your points in the application.
What are “Special Strengths”?
Special strengths make a company stand out from its competition or make it the leader in its field. A company’s strength might be its innovative products or business practices, special use of technology or involvement in its community. The application asks companies to provide examples of how they embody any of these strengths. This list is not exclusive, and companies are encouraged to provide alternatives.
How are award recipients selected?
The award recipients will be selected by a panel of independent judges comprised of GrowFL CEOs, economic development leaders, and partners. The judging panel has complete discretion in determining the recipients. The award will be based on the following criteria: Growth in number of employees. Impact of the business in the job market. Increase in sales and/or unit volume. Current and past financial reports. Innovativeness of the product or service. [...]
I have not received a nomination — may I still be considered?
Absolutely. Companies may apply directly and need not be nominated. Please complete an application by June 28, 2024, at 5:00 PM Central time. Apply at https://growfl.com/about-growfl-flctw/apply/
What are the Eligibility Criteria for this award?
A second-stage company must be characterized as an established and growing firm as defined by the traits below. They are typically past the startup phase and face growth challenges rather than survival issues. A company must meet the following for the year ending 2024: Be a privately held commercial enterprise headquartered in Florida (not publicly traded, subsidiary, or division of another company or nonprofit). Employ 6 to 150 full-time equivalent [...]
What do companies receive if selected as a Company to Watch?
Honorees do not simply make it onto a list. They become part of a cohort of second-stage companies known for their distinguished leadership, innovation, and impact. Honorees receive the following:Special recognition at the GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch event on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the Hard Rock Live! Universal CityWalk, Orlando, FL, attended by business and government leaders from across the state.2 Complimentary tickets to the event (extra seats [...]
