The Ringling College of Art and Design and the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of Sarasota County are collaborating to present the first ever Ringling College “Innovation by Creative Design” award to a Sarasota County company that has used creative innovation to successfully solve a problem. “Sarasota has always been a center for creativity and this award is intended to recognize and elevate current day innovators that embody this enduring spirit,” said Larry Fineberg, Chairman of the EDC Board of Directors. “Basic qualifications for nominations include: a product or service that is available in the marketplace and has demonstrated financial success; a majority of the nominee’s revenues must come from outside Sarasota County; and the specific product or service must have been developed in the past five years. The deadline for applications is August 10, and the winner will be announced a month later on September 11. Self-nominations or third-party nominations are accepted. “This is a terrific opportunity to showcase the kind of innovative, creative talent that we have in Sarasota,” said Mark Huey, CEO and President of the EDC. “Innovation is the number one driver of business growth, and we are thrilled to partner with Ringling College to recognize creativity at its best in our local economy.”

The Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County