Volusia County Realigns Business Incubator to Expand Support for Local Businesses, Startups, and Innovators

Volusia County Economic Development

May 02, 2025

With the goal of serving the broader needs of the local business community and tailoring services to meet its evolving needs, the Volusia County Council voted to transition management of Volusia County’s Business Incubator from the University of Central Florida (UCF) to the County’s Economic Development Division on April 15.

Through mutual dissolution of the County’s agreement with the UCF Business Incubation Program, which will continue to operate the program until June 15, Volusia County will gain the flexibility to deliver accessible, targeted support and invest more directly in local business growth. In addition, the incubator will be rebranded as the Volusia County Innovation Hub and the transition will result in significant cost savings for Volusia County and a reduction of expenses.

Currently, the UCF Business Incubation Program focuses primarily on second-stage companies that have the potential to grow significantly and create regional impact.  With the new focus, the County can open doors for a wider variety of innovative business models. Like other areas of Central Florida, companies in Volusia County will still be eligible for incubation services through the UCF Business Incubation Program.

"We deeply appreciate the role UCF has played in developing and guiding this program over the years," said Volusia County Economic Development Director Lou Paris. "They have created a strong foundation that we're proud to build upon as we strive to grow our economy by helping entrepreneurs' visions become reality."

A small business incubator provides idea- and early-stage companies with the tools they need to thrive. Located at 601 Innovation Way in Daytona Beach, the incubator will remain open and continue to serve as a hub for startups and growing enterprises. From affordable office space to expert business coaching, networking opportunities, and educational programs, the incubator creates an environment designed to help early- and idea-stage businesses grow stronger, faster, and more sustainably.

“We’re proud of all we have accomplished in Volusia County, with some great companies impacting the region in significant ways,” says Carol Ann Logue, director, Innovation Districts Programs & Operations, University of Central Florida. “We look to continue to work with the county as they continue to build out the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Volusia County. We know entrepreneurs need a wide range of support services and this helps with different services than traditionally found in an incubator.”