Statewide awards program recognizes high-growth, second-stage companies driving Florida’s economy forward
Niceville, FL – DS2 LLC. has been named a finalist for the 16th Annual GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Awards, a statewide recognition program celebrating high-growth, second-stage companies headquartered in Florida. Finalist companies are recognized for strong leadership, innovation, growth potential, and meaningful contributions to their communities, industries, and Florida’s economy.
The GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Awards, made possible through the support of Nperspective CFO & Strategic Services, celebrates privately held second-stage companies that are helping strengthen and diversify Florida’s economy.
This year, more than 500 companies were nominated for the GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Awards. Following the nomination and application process, 95 finalists were selected to move forward in the judging process, reflecting the strength, innovation, and impact of Florida’s second-stage business community.
To be considered, companies must be headquartered in Florida, employ six to 150 full-time equivalent employees, generate $750,000 to $100 million in annual revenue or working capital, and demonstrate both the intent and capacity to grow.
Since its founding in 2011, DS2 has grown from a small business supporting a single Air Force customer into a trusted engineering partner of 60 employees delivering mission-critical solutions across multiple defense communities. Through deep technical expertise, strong customer relationships, and a commitment to developing talent, DS2 has expanded its impact, strengthened military capabilities, and contributed to the growth of Northwest Florida’s technology and engineering workforce.
Companies are evaluated on growth, innovation, response to adversity, community involvement, and overall impact on Florida’s economy.
Being named a finalist for the 16th Annual GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Awards is a significant milestone for DS2 and reflects the strength of the relationships that have fueled our growth from the very beginning. While DS2 is built on delivering innovative engineering solutions, our success has always been rooted in a relationship-based approach with our employees, customers, business partners, and community. What began with a single major customer and a team of 20 employees has grown into a thriving company of 55 employees and $10 million in annual revenue, serving multiple mission areas and customers. This recognition validates the dedication of our team, the trust our customers place in us, and our commitment to creating meaningful value for Florida’s economy and the communities we serve.
Finalists will move forward in the judging process for consideration as one of the top 50 GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Honorees. They will also be recognized at regional events held throughout Florida, with registration available at growfl.com. The 50 honorees will be announced in October and celebrated at the 16th Annual GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Awards Gala on Friday, February 26, 2027, at Hard Rock Live, Universal CityWalk in Orlando.
“We are proud to recognize this year’s finalists and the role they play in advancing Florida’s economy,” said Robert Newland, Chief Growth Advisor, Newland Growth Advisors and Chair of the Board for GrowFL. “These companies represent the innovation, resilience, and entrepreneurial leadership that make Florida a strong place to grow a business.”
“The finalist companies represent some of the most dynamic second-stage businesses in the state,” said Sean Flannery, SVP, Commercial Banking Manager, Synovus and Chair of the GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Committee. “We look forward to celebrating their achievements and sharing their stories as we move toward the announcement of the 50 honorees.”
Media Contact
Media interested in learning more about DS2 or the GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Awards should contact Jeff Hy at jeff.hy@ds2.com or 850-279-6176. For GrowFL media inquiries, contact Tammie Sweet at Tammie@GrowFL.com or 407-498-5323.
About DS2
Founded in 2011, and headquartered in Niceville, DS2 is a relationship-driven engineering company that delivers specialized software and engineering solutions for mission-critical defense applications. Leveraging deep expertise in Airfield Damage Repair and Mission Planning, DS2 helps customers solve complex operational challenges through innovative technology, trusted execution, and close collaboration. The company has steadily expanded its capabilities, customer base, and workforce while maintaining a strong commitment to employee development, customer success, and community engagement.
Learn more about DS2 at ds2.com or follow us on LinkedIn at DS2.
About GrowFL
GrowFL is a CEO member-driven organization dedicated to supporting Florida’s second-stage companies and the leaders behind them. Built by CEOs, for CEOs, GrowFL creates space for growth-stage business owners to connect with peers, gain practical insight, strengthen leadership, and access the relationships and resources needed to scale with intention. By focusing on companies that have moved beyond startup but are not yet mature, GrowFL helps accelerate business growth, job creation, and long-term economic strength across Florida. GrowFL supports companies with at least six employees and $750,000 in revenue that have the intent and capacity to continue growing. Learn more at http://www.growfl.com.
