The Florida Institute turns Florida technology into Florida companies and Florida jobs. Florida First Check extends that mission to day one of a company’s life.
First checks
$75,000–$100,000
Managed by
Florida Funders
First investment
Stello AI, Tampa
A First Check for Florida Founders
Florida First Check provides first checks of $75,000–$100,000 for Florida’s earliest-stage technology founders. The program is managed by Florida Funders and debuted with an investment in Tampa-based Stello AI.
Beyond Capital
Capital is one of the Institute’s tools. Florida First Check goes beyond capital with company-building support, executive networks, and connections into Florida’s universities and research institutions.
Company-building support
Executive networks
University and research connections
Florida’s Capital Continuum
Florida’s capital continuum runs from a founder’s first check to growth stage—entirely in-state.
Pre-seed and seed
The Florida Institute: Florida First Check and the Florida Technology Seed Capital Fund, managed by Florida Funders.
Seed and early stage
Florida Opportunity Fund, managed by DeepWork Capital.
Growth stage
Florida Growth Fund, a Florida SBA program.
Private venture capital and private equity co-invest at every stage.
Connect with Florida First Check
Founders, accelerators, universities, and technology licensing offices: