Celebrating 40 Years of
Empowering Business Success
Strengthening America's Defense Industrial Base Since 1986
For 40 years, the Florida APEX Accelerator has been a driving force in helping small businesses navigate and succeed in the world of government contracting. Established in 1986 as part of a national network of Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs), the program has evolved into a cornerstone of Florida’s economic development ecosystem. Today, the Florida APEX Accelerator continues its mission to connect businesses with opportunities, resources, and expertise that fuel growth and innovation.
The Florida APEX Accelerator empowers small businesses to compete successfully for federal, state, and local government contracts. Through personalized consulting, training, and strategic partnerships, the program strengthens Florida’s and our nation’s supplier base and supports job creation across industries.
We invite our clients, partners, and staff to share their stories and tell us how the Florida APEX Accelerator has supported and shaped your journey. Your experiences and impact matter.
Selected testimonials will be featured as part of our 40th Anniversary celebration, honoring the people and partnerships that have 40 years of success possible.
Our History
In September 1985, the Procurement Technical Assistance Center program was created under the Defense Logistics Agency, during a time when the U.S. Department of Defense recognized the importance of working with small businesses to fill procurement needs. The goal was to strengthen the defense industrial base while expanding contracting opportunities for small and disadvantaged businesses.
Hosted by the University of West Florida (UWF), the Florida APEX Accelerator has operated continuously as a statewide program since 1986. The program supports businesses across Florida through multiple centers located from Pensacola to Miami.
In 2023, the Department of Defense expanded and transformed the PTAC program as the APEX Accelerator program to reflect a broader mission of strengthening the national supply chain, helping businesses accelerate growth and support innovation. At the heart of the program, the core mission remains the same, providing no-cost, expert assistance to help businesses succeed in government contracting.
“Their expertise has allowed us to pinpoint opportunities for improvement, explore new programs, and structure our business in a way that ensures continued success… That kind of support is priceless, especially when you are trying to lead a company through change and growth. My biggest regret is that I didn't find them sooner."
Eduardo Castellanos
Chief Executive Officer, Grain Machinery
Success Stories
Thank you for trusting the Florida APEX Accelerator to be part of your success.
Reaching for the Stars with Next-Gen Materials
From South Bronx to the stars, driven by a lifelong passion for space exploration, Dr. Bill Goodman launched Goodman Technologies, LLC, ...
Corporate Housing Providers Secures FEMA Contract with Help from Florida APEX Accelerator
For 15 years, GM Corporate Suites has been a trusted corporate housing provider in Florida, ...