Meet the 2023 Florida honorees

Congratulations to our region’s Entrepreneur Of The Year® winners, who were selected by an independent panel of judges based on their demonstration of long-term value through entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth and impact, among other core contributions and attributes. Finalists were recognized and winners were announced during the regional celebration.

Regional winners went on to compete for National recognition. National finalists and winners were announced during the National awards gala. 

Watch the celebration highlight video

Read the press release

2023 Florida winners

Christopher-Clementi
Christopher Clementi
CEO
AEG Fuels
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    The AEG Team is dedicated to delivering value to aircraft operators by providing comprehensive aviation solutions and unparalleled service on a global basis.

    The Company’s core values are excellence and teamwork, entrepreneurship and innovation, respect and trust, and always doing what's right.

    AEG’s product offerings include worldwide refueling capabilities at over 3,000 airports, bulk delivery of fuel to airports and storage facilities, international trip planning, a private label fuel card, and distribution of sustainable aviation fuel and offsetting programs, among other value-added services.

    With offices in Miami, Houston, Stateline, Toluca, London, Dubai, Singapore, Shanghai, and São Paulo, AEG has a regional customer-service driven support model, providing a platform for it to serve the unique needs of its customer base on every continent.

    More than 1 billion gallons of fuel products are distributed by AEG annually through a network of over 3,000 airports, fuel terminals, marine ports, storage facilities, and FBOs. Through AEG, customers can access a full array of fuel solutions powered by strategic relationships with multinational and national oil companies, refiners, logistics providers, and delivery agents around the world. 

anthony-perera
Anthony Perera
Founder and Chief Growth Officer
Air Pros USA
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    Air Pros USA was founded in South Florida in 2017 on the premise of integrity, reliability and putting its customers first. As one of the fastest-growing heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) repair and service companies in the nation, Air Pros USA currently employs approximately 1,000 experienced professionals with more than a dozen service locations within Florida, Colorado, Georgia, Texas, Washington, Alabama, and Louisiana.

Russell-Thomas
Russ Thomas
CEO
Availity LLC
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    Availity is the place where healthcare finds the answers needed to shift focus back to patient care. The Company works to solve communication challenges in healthcare by creating a richer, more transparent exchange of information among health plans, providers, and technology partners. As the nation's largest health information networks, Availity facilitates billions of clinical, administrative and financial transactions annually, accounting for over $2.7 trillion of healthcare economic activity. Our suite of dynamic products, built on a powerful, intelligent platform, enables real-time collaboration among providers and health plans in a competitive healthcare environment. 

Shirl-Penney
Shirl Penney 
President and CEO
Dynasty Financial Partners
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    Dynasty is a provider of technology-enabled wealth management solutions and business services for financial advisory firms primarily focused on serving high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients. Dynasty provides access to a comprehensive platform of software and technology tools, business services and holistic investment management capabilities through an open-architecture platform, delivered via a suite of proprietary and third-party technologies. Dynasty’s technology, tools and services provide advisory firms the supported independence to launch their business, scale their operations and grow their firms — both organically and inorganically — while also allowing them to be more focused on and better equipped to serve their clients.

    For more than a decade, Dynasty has championed the benefits of independent wealth management for high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients and has contributed to the movement of assets from traditional brokerage channels to the independent channels of wealth management. As Dynasty is becoming a recognized industry leader, the Company differentiates itself through a deep understanding of and strong relationship with its clients, a comprehensive offering of services and technology-enabled solutions.

Fred-Voccola
Frederick Voccola
CEO
Kaseya
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    Kaseya is the leading provider of unified IT and security management software for IT professionals in managed service providers (MSPs) and mid-market enterprises (MMEs). Through its customer-centric approach and renowned support, Kaseya delivers best-in-breed technologies that empower organizations to seamlessly manage IT infrastructure, secure networks, backup critical data, manage service operations, and grow their businesses. Kaseya offers a broad array of IT management solutions, including well-known names: Kaseya, Datto, IT Glue, RapidFire Tools, Unitrends, Spanning Cloud Apps, TruMethods, ID Agent, Graphus and RocketCyber. These innovative solutions fuel Kaseya’s IT Complete platform, which is designed to maximize efficiencies and enable businesses through a single pane of glass. IT Complete empowers IT professionals to centrally command hardware, software, security, data, compliance, operations and more from within a comprehensive, integrated, intelligent (AI utilization-optimized), and affordable platform. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, Kaseya is privately held with a global presence in over 25 countries. 

Bret-Jorgensen
Bret Jorgensen
Chairman and CEO
MDVIP
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    MDVIP is the nation’s largest network of primary care physicians who practice under a membership-based healthcare model. Today, the network comprises more than 1,100 affiliated internists and family doctors serving over 380,000 patients (members) across 44 states and Washington, D.C.

    MDVIP-affiliated physicians limit the size of their practices, allowing them to spend more time with patients and provide more individualized primary care compared to traditional, high-volume practices. For an annual membership fee, patients receive the MDVIP Wellness Program, a comprehensive yearly health assessment that includes advanced diagnostic tests and screenings to give a more complete view of the patient's overall health. Using the results, physicians provide ongoing coaching and tools to help patients make healthier lifestyle choices, prevent disease and achieve their wellness goals.

    Published research shows that the MDVIP primary care model identifies more patients at risk for cardiovascular disease, delivers more preventive health services, and saves the healthcare system millions of dollars through reduced hospitalizations and readmissions.

Richard-Weissman
Richard Weissman
Founder, Chairman and CEO
The Learning Experience
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    Since 2002, The Learning Experience (TLE) has positively impacted the lives of children by developing and implementing groundbreaking care and early childhood education programs. TLE’s mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of children, their families, and the communities the Company serves. TLE takes an innovative approach to offering the highest quality care and early education. From its curriculum and centers to its app for parents, TLE incorporates creative techniques and technology to deliver an experience that’s engaging, effective and fun. TLE provides a developmentally appropriate, secure and nurturing environment where children feel safe to explore socially, intellectually and emotionally. the Company’s proprietary L.E.A.P.® curriculum is an evidence-based program that provides a solid foundation of developmental learning opportunities from a cross-curricular approach. TLE also launched the first-ever preschool philanthropy curriculum dedicated to teaching children the value of kindness and generosity in class, at home and in their communities.

Ryan-Moul
Ryan Moul
CEO
WAI (Wetherill Associates)
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    Based out of its South Florida Headquarters located in Miramar, Florida, WAI serves the world as a leading manufacturer and supplier in the automotive, heavy duty, agricultural and industrial, marine, and power sports aftermarket. Founded in 1978, WAI has grown to become a global leader in its field, with operations in North America, Europe and Asia.

    WAI's product portfolio includes a wide range of alternators, starter motors, and other electrical components that are used in a variety of applications, including passenger cars, commercial vehicles, construction equipment, agricultural machinery, and more. The company is committed to delivering high-quality products that meet the needs of its customers, while also focusing on innovation and sustainability.

    In addition to its product offerings, WAI Global also provides a range of value-added services to its customers, including technical support, training, and customized solutions. The company's mission is to be a trusted partner for its customers, providing them with high-quality products and services that help them succeed. 

2023 Florida finalists

  • Todd Schonherz | American Oncology Network | Fort Myers

    Todd Schonherz is the CEO of American Oncology Network.
    American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is one of the fastest growing networks of community oncology practices delivering local access to exceptional cancer care. AON partners with physicians and their practices to help them navigate the complex healthcare landscape, improve quality of care and elevate community oncology.
  • Moby Kazmi, MD | COPILOT | Maitland

    Moby Kazmi is President of COPILOT.

    The COPILOT leadership team has decades of pharmaceutical industry, reimbursement HUB operations, specialty pharmacy and payer experience, leveraged to provide its clients with the strategic guidance needed to create industry-leading reimbursement programs.

    Headquartered in Orlando, FL and with locations in Long Island, NY and Scottsdale, AZ, COPILOT has the infrastructure to support both large-volume products and small population rare disorder treatments. The COPILOT team incorporates extensive experience in transitioning established HUBs and in the creation of new programs in conjunction with product launches to achieve a high level of client care. COPILOT operations are structured to work within the framework of fully integrated pharmaceutical organizations and nimble enough to align with emerging life-science organizations.

  • Andy Allen | Corner Lot | Jacksonville

    Andy Allen is CEO of Corner Lot.

    Corner Lot is a real estate development firm with business lines that include residential, multifamily, commercial, urban, hospitality, and historic preservation development as well as single-family home construction.

  • Benjamin Gliklich | Element Solutions | Fort Lauderdale

    Benjamin Gliklich is President and CEO of Element Solutions.

    Element Solutions Inc. is a leading specialty chemicals company whose businesses supply a broad range of solutions that enhance the performance of products people use every day. Developed in multi-step technological processes, these innovative solutions enable customers' manufacturing processes in several key industries, including consumer electronics, power electronics, semiconductor fabrication, communications and data storage infrastructure, automotive systems, industrial surface finishing, consumer packaging, and offshore energy.

  • Jennifer Addabbo | Engage fi | Tampa

    Jennifer Addabbo is Co-Founder and CEO of Engage fi.
    With over 450 years of industry experience, the team at Engage Fi is a blend of consultants, educators, matchmakers, integrators, and advocates. The Company is laser-focused on guiding financial institutions through its proven process and enabling them to make informed, timely decisions on vendor relationships so they can change at the speed of the consumer. Engage fi has completed over 525 strategic projects for financial institutions and negotiated over US$2.2 billion in savings and incentives for its clients. The Company has a unique approach, and its strategic projects are as unique as the clients it serves. 
  • Chris Tomasso | First Watch Restaurants | Bradenton

    Chris Tomasso is President and CEO of First Watch Restaurants.
    First Watch (NASDAQ: FWRG) is an award-winning Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using fresh ingredients. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” accolades, First Watch’s chef-driven menu includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet, recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work award and named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute. In 2021, First Watch was recognized as FSR Magazine’s Best Menu and as the fastest-growing full-service restaurant chain based on unit growth. There are more than 470 First Watch restaurants in 29 states, and the restaurant concept is majority owned by Advent International, one of the world’s largest private equity firms. 
  • Joshua Hay and Michael White | Indelible | Jacksonville

    Joshua Hay is the CEO of Indelible.
    Michael White is the Co-founder and Chief Business Development Officer.

    Indelible provides management consulting services to public and private sector organizations. The founders structured the firm into solutions vertical (i.e., business units) that align with the funding priorities of federal, state and local governments. Indelible’s solution verticals include Transportation and Infrastructure, IT Advisory, Health and Human Services and Emergency Management. The services it provides are quintessential to the welfare of citizens residing in underserved communities.  It aspires to create a sustainable firm that survives multiple generations, extraordinary events, and any combination of converging megatrends experienced by the global economy. Indelible is the voice in the halls of governmental bureaucracy that advocates to provide resources to underserved and communities of color. Indelible is positioned to be the enterprise that will provide solutions and opportunities for generations to come.

  • Oscar Feldenkreis | Perry Ellis International | Doral

    Oscar Feldenkreis is President and CEO of Perry Ellis International.

    Perry Ellis International represents a global fashion house of fully owned and licensed fashion sports and lifestyle brands. Over the past 56 years, the organization transformed into a leading provider of lifestyle brands through its diversity in its powerful portfolio with premier names such as Perry Ellis®, Perry Ellis America®.

  • Jeff Jackson | PGT Innovations | Nokomis

    Jeff Jackson is President and CEO of PGT Innovations.

    PGT Innovations manufactures and supplies premium windows, doors and garage doors. Its highly engineered and technically advanced products can withstand some of the toughest weather conditions on Earth and are revolutionizing the way people live by unifying indoor and outdoor living spaces.

    PGT Innovations creates value through deep customer relationships, understanding the unstated needs of the markets we serve, and a drive to develop category-defining products. PGT Innovations is also the nation’s largest manufacturer of impact-resistant windows and doors and holds the leadership position in its primary market.

    The PGT Innovations family of brands include CGI®, PGT® Custom Windows and Doors, WinDoor®, Western Window Systems, Anlin Windows & Doors, Eze-Breeze®, NewSouth Window Solutions, Martin Door ,and a 75% ownership stake in Eco Window Systems. PGT Innovations’ brands, in their respective markets, are a preferred choice of architects, builders and homeowners throughout North America and the Caribbean. The Company’s high-quality products are available in custom and standard sizes with massive dimensions that allow for unlimited design possibilities in residential, multi-family, and commercial projects.

  • Andreas King-Geovanis | Roami (formerly Sextant Stays) | Miami

    Andreas King-Geovanis is Founder and CEO of Roami (formerly Sextant Stays).

    Sextant Stays, a next-generation hospitality brand, manages over 500 units across 20+ buildings in South Florida and New Orleans. The Company’s residences are six times larger than the average hotel room and come with a fully equipped kitchen, dedicated workspace, and in-unit washer/dryer, allowing guests to stay comfortably for a day, week, month, or even a year.

  • Bruce Lucas | Slide Insurance | Tampa

    Bruce Lucas is Founder and CEO of Slide Insurance.
    Slide is a full-stack homeowners InsurTech that uses an industry-leading US$6 trillion TIV data set to revolutionize the insurance industry through the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning.  Slide is a top 5 homeowners' insurer that that is tackling the Florida insurance crisis with a new approach and vision.  Slide launched operations in 2022, grew from zero to US$560 million in annual premiums, and is the first and only InsurTech to ever turn a profit.
  • Robert Morcos | Social Mobile | Hollywood

    Robert Morcos is Founder and CEO of Social Mobile.
    Founded in 2011, Social Mobile is a Google Mobile Services (GMS) partner, leveraging the Android operating system to design, engineer and manufacture turnkey mobility-as-a-service deployments that enable enterprise organizations to utilize smart solutions to support an array of business-critical operations. An OEM, managed service provider, and consultancy, Social Mobile is uniquely positioned to serve as a domestic design partner to US clients, controlling all aspects of the development supply-chain, and delivering the utmost in security and availability. 
  • Bill Johnson | The Liberty Company Insurance Brokers | Gainesville

    Bill Johnson is Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO of The Liberty Company Insurance Brokers.
    The Liberty Company is an independently owned insurance broker handling the commercial, personal and employee benefits insurance needs of businesses, nonprofits and individuals for more than 36 years. The company was founded in 1987 by Chairman and CEO Bill Johnson, who currently leads the firm along with President Jerry Pickett. Licensed to operate in all 50 states, the company is headquartered in Florida, but its flagship office is based in Woodland Hills, California.
    Liberty has grown consistently and, in recent years, exponentially by attracting talented and entrepreneurial people into an energetic and collaborative culture which focuses on the team’s happiness, wellbeing and personal growth. Liberty has expanded nationally by partnering with agency owners and experienced producers who fit the Company’s culture, are driven by its mission of Promoting Peace of Mind with Great Care and demonstrate its core values of Integrity, Excellence, Caring, Kindness, Fairness, Teamwork, Good Feelings, and Fun!
  • James Hill | Trajector | Newberry

    James Hill is Co-Founder and CEO of Trajector.
    A veteran-owned and -operated company founded in 2014, Trajector helps the underserved and at-risk disabled population in their quest to receive all the disability benefits they medically, legally and ethically qualify for from both government and private entities.
    The Company develops medical evidence that helps its clients navigate the complex disability benefits journey to improve their life trajectory.
    Trajector has helped tens of thousands of veterans get the most accurate disability rating their conditions warrant.