Ten Sarasota County businesses employing a combined 260 people have joined the inaugural cohort of our Sarasota County CEO Academy. These companies already make a meaningful contribution to our economy, and they are ready to grow.

Getting to know the people behind our local businesses is one of the things I appreciate most about my work. They have taken risks, persevered through challenges and created opportunities for others along the way.

These companies have moved beyond startup, established customers and built teams. They have considerable success behind them and the desire to keep growing.

These are second-stage companies.

GrowFL, Florida’s nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting second-stage companies, describes them as businesses with at least six employees, a minimum of $750,000 in annual revenue and an intent to grow. They represent just 10% of Florida’s businesses but generate more than 30% of its jobs.

For these second-stage CEOs and owners, growth brings new demands. Many remain closely involved in daily operations, customer relationships and decisions throughout the business. Creating time for strategy while keeping everything moving can be a challenge.

The next stage of growth may require developing managers, reaching new markets or building systems that allow the business to grow without compromising quality. Even experienced leaders benefit from having someone help them think through priorities and turn plans into action.

That is why the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County created the Sarasota County CEO Academy.

Our inaugural cohort brings a combined 200 years of business experience. Through May, these leaders will work with experienced advisors, participate in personal coaching and work alongside peers who understand the responsibilities of leading a growing company.

Over the next nine months, the Academy will give participants a place to work through immediate growth priorities with practical guidance, candid discussion and support tailored to their businesses.

With 260 people already employed by these companies, helping them grow has real significance for our community. Their growth will create career opportunities for residents, new business for local suppliers and a stronger Sarasota County’s economy.

These business owners have already invested so much here. We want to help them build on that success and create more opportunities for people to build their futures in Sarasota County.

Learn more at edcsarasotacounty.com/ceoacademy.

Erin Silk is the President and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County.