About this programme
Florida First Check is the Florida Institute for the Commercialization of Public Research's earliest-stage funding program. The Institute's broader mission is to help commercialize technology coming out of Florida's universities and research institutions; First Check extends that mission down to day one of a company's life, rather than waiting until a company has already formed and proven itself.
The program is managed by Florida Funders and targets Florida's earliest-stage technology founders with a first check of $75,000 to $100,000. Since July 1, 2018, the Institute's scope was broadened to include assistance to any innovation business in Florida, including startups still in formation, so First Check is not limited strictly to university-spinout companies.
Beyond the capital itself, First Check is built around three kinds of support: hands-on company-building help to develop commercial operations around a technology, access to the Florida Institute's network of founders, operators and investors, and pathways into Florida's universities and research institutions.
How it works
The first check ranges from $75,000 to $100,000 per company. The official page does not specify equity percentage or whether the investment is structured as a SAFE, priced round or another instrument.
After First Check, companies can be connected further along Florida's capital continuum, including the Florida Opportunity Fund for seed and early-stage rounds and the Florida Growth Fund for growth-stage rounds.
The Institute separately runs the Florida Technology Seed Capital Fund, and also works with local investors and federal and state funding programs to support new ventures.
Who can apply
The program targets Florida's earliest-stage technology founders, including companies still in formation, not only already-incorporated businesses.
Private companies partnering with a university startup may also qualify, but these are reviewed case by case.
How to apply
- Contact the program directly at FirstCheck@floridafunders.com to start the process. The official pages reviewed do not lay out a formal multi-step public application procedure.
Frequently asked
How much does Florida First Check invest?
Between $75,000 and $100,000 per company.
Who runs the program?
Florida Funders manages Florida First Check on behalf of the Florida Institute for the Commercialization of Public Research.
Does my company need to come out of a Florida university?
No. As of July 1, 2018 the Institute's scope covers any innovation business in Florida, including startups still in formation, though private companies partnering with a university startup are reviewed case by case.
What happens after First Check?
Companies can be connected further along Florida's funding continuum, including the Florida Opportunity Fund for seed and early-stage rounds and the Florida Growth Fund for growth-stage rounds.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.