Why support second-stage companies? These companies are powerhouses for job creation. During 2005-2007, second-stage establishments represented over 8 percent of Florida resident companies, according to YourEconomy.org, an online resource of the Edward Lowe Foundation. Those second-stage companies generated 36 percent of the jobs created by companies headquartered in the state.

A business typically begins to enter its second stage when it approaches $1 million in total receipts. The transition process can continue until it hits $100 million in receipts, although for most companies $50 million represents the upper limit of second stage.

Why should you apply? GrowFL puts companies on an entirely different playing field. The program provides a suite of high-end, high-speed technical assistance and business resources to companies that have grown beyond the startup phase and need access to information and decision-making tools typically only available to larger companies.