The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network/Florida APEX Accelerator and UF Innovate I Accelerate are pleased to announce a new partnership to strengthen Florida’s innovation ecosystem and expand opportunities for companies pursuing growth in government and defense-related markets.
The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed by the organizations on Monday, August 17, following the Florida SBDC Network and Florida APEX Accelerator's Reverse Trade Show, held in conjunction with the 2026 Small Business Success Summit at the Sunseeker Resort in Charlotte Harbor.
Under the agreement, the organizations will collaborate on programs, events, and consulting services that connect small businesses with the resources, expertise, and strategic guidance needed to pursue federal contracting opportunities. The partnership also supports the development of a stronger pipeline of companies aligned with national defense and other critical technology areas.
“Partnering with UF Innovate allows us to better support entrepreneurs and technology companies as they pursue government contracting opportunities,” said Greg Britton, state director of the Florida SBDC Network and Florida APEX Accelerator. “By combining our expertise in business consulting and government contracting with UF Innovate's strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, we can help innovative companies unlock new opportunities for growth, commercialization, and long-term success."
By combining UF Innovate’s entrepreneurial ecosystem with Florida APEX Accelerator’s specialized government contracting expertise, the partnership creates new opportunities for entrepreneurs and technology companies to access the government marketplace. Together, the organizations are helping innovative businesses diversify revenue streams, accelerate commercialization, and strengthen Florida’s innovation ecosystem and defense industrial base.
“Innovation creates tremendous potential, but entrepreneurs need the right resources, connections, and opportunities to turn that potential into lasting impact,” said Karl R. LaPan, director of UF Innovate|Accelerate. “Our partnership with the Florida APEX Accelerator expands the support available to growing companies and creates new pathways into government and defense markets. Together, we can help more Florida innovators take the next step toward commercialization, business growth, and success.”
The partnership also brings dedicated, on-site government contracting expertise to UF Innovate I Accelerate through Florida APEX Accelerator Government Contracting Consultant David Angers. With more than 30 years of experience leading complex logistics, procurement, and operations programs for the U.S. military, Angers offers deep expertise in federal acquisition processes, regulatory compliance, and supply chain management. His background equips him to help UF Innovate’s entrepreneurs and technology companies understand government requirements, strengthen their capabilities, and successfully compete for contract opportunities.
For more information about the partnership and available resources, visit floridasbdc.org, flapex.org, and innovate.research.ufl.edu.
