Incubators
Volusia County Incubators exist to nurture local businesses through collaboration and learning. They provide hands-on support that can accelerate the growth of both new and existing business ventures. These collaborative environments provide access to experienced mentors, low cost space, a variety of funding sources, product development equipment and a pool of curious and creative minds.
Welcome to the Volusia Innovation Hub!
Volusia County has ushered in a new era of economic development with the launch of the Volusia Innovation Hub, a transformative initiative designed to become the region’s premier destination for entrepreneurship, innovation, and business growth.
We support startups to mid-size businesses in Volusia County by providing education, resources, and support through mentoring and research while fostering relationships in the business community and our local university system.
The Volusia Innovation Hub isn’t just another business center—it’s a launchpad for the next generation of successful companies. Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur with a groundbreaking idea, a growing company ready to scale internationally, or an established international business seeking to establish U.S. operations, the hub provides the resources, connections, and expertise to accelerate your success.
Following the Volusia County Council’s strategic decision on April 15, 2025 to transition management from the University of Central Florida to the County’s Economic Development Division, the newly reimagined Hub represents a bold expansion from a specialized incubator to a comprehensive ecosystem supporting businesses at every stage of growth. The 11,000 square-foot facility which opened July 27, 2011 is located at the U.S. Customs terminal at the Daytona Beach International Airport.
Programs
LaunchPad Volusia
“Where startups ignite their engines and prepare for lift-off.”
LaunchPad is a nine-week acceleration program to help startups refine their business models, become funding-ready, and gain a clear understanding of the steps needed to launch and grow their ideas. Participants will also learn about the business resources available in the community. The program follows a self-paced structure, supplemented by live mentorship and workshops to provide guidance and support.
By the end of the program, participants will have a validated, funding-ready business which they will have the opportunity to pitch at a future 1 Million Cups Daytona.
REGISTER FOR THE JAN. 2026 COHORT
Orbit Volusia
“Our orbiting station for business growth; nurturing, stabilizing, and preparing for the next launch phase.”
Orbit Volusia is a 12-month initiative designed to support early-stage companies across various industries such as manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and services. The program is structured into three key phases: selection & onboarding, business development & validation, and growth & scaling. Startups will begin with a rigorous application process, business model refinement, and legal compliance support.
Startups will work on market validation, product testing, and revenue strategy development ensuring they build a solid foundation. Startups will also focus on sales growth, investor readiness, and scaling operations to prepare them for long-term success. Through mentorship, resources, and funding opportunities, the program equips entrepreneurs with the tools they need to launch, grow and sustain their business. Office space is offered by invitation only.
APPLY
Mission Control
A high-level command center for business leaders focusing on scaling and navigating new frontiers.
The Mission Control CEO program is an initiative to help second-stage companies with $1M to 10M in revenue scale optimize operations and expand into government contracting and SBIR/STTR grants. Through monthly meetings, expert-led workshops, and mentoring, participants will gain strategic insights on SBIR/STTR grants, government contracting, U.S. market expansion, financial strategy, sales and marketing, talent management and compliance.
APPLY
Runway Volusia
Where global companies touch down, refuel and prepare for U.S. expansion.
Runway Volusia is a 12-month initiative for international tech and aerospace companies that want to enter the U.S. market, establish "Made in the U.S.A." manufacturing and scale globally. Our main goal is to attract the best tech startups to Volusia County and teach them how to do and scale business in the U.S.
APPLY
Volusia Tech Hub
Volusia Tech Hub is a program created to strengthen the region's technology and entrepreneurship ecosytem. Focused on supporting high-tech industries, especially Artificial Intelligence and Aerospace, Volusia Tech Hub provides entrepreneurs, startups, and growing companies with the tools and resources they need to succeed.
To learn more, email cgarzon@volusia.org
Seeking Mentors
The Volusia Innovation Hub is seeking mentors to accelerate the growth and success of local startups. These mentors will help strengthen the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, foster job creation, and drive economic growth in Volusia County. While the county is home to talented entrepreneurs, many lack teh business experience and guidance needed to scale their companies. By connecting these entrepreneurs with seasoned business leaders, including founders of multmillion dollar companies, industry experts, and philanthropists, the program will provide on-going mentorship, practical advice, and valuable networks.
Mentors will benefit from a rewarding opportunity to give back, grow professionally, and expand their connections while incubator clients will gain the tools, knowledge, and relations needed to build strong, scalable businesses.
To learn more, email rcalixte@volusia.org
For more information about any of the Volusia Business Innovation Hub programs, or to schedule a facility tour, contact:
Connie Garzon, MBA-CBA
Volusia Innovation Hub Business Manager
cgarzon@volusia.org
386-248-8050
601 Innovation Way
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Click to view map and get directions
MicaPlex at the Embry-Riddle Research Park
(John Mica Engineering and Aerospace Innovation Complex)
The MicaPlex presents businesses with a unique opportunity for collaboration with the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University community to develop, refine and bring new products and technological services to market. As an incubator space, the facilities and occupants of the MicaPlex will provide such a network which extends to the University, not only at the Daytona Beach Campus, but to resources on the Prescott, Arizona, campus and the extensive network that is the Worldwide Campus.
