BioFuels Journal

Tallahassee, FL—Governor Rick Scott, along with Secretary of Commerce and President & CEO of Enterprise Florida (EFI) Gray Swoope, announced Algenol Biofuels as the Ft. Myers area winner of the 2013 Governor’s Innovators in Business Awards.

The awards recognize Florida companies in select industries that have influenced the state’s economic growth and diversification over the last year.

Governor Scott said, “Florida’s economy has made a huge upturn thanks to businesses like the ones being recognized today. These outstanding companies have worked hard to create jobs and improve our economy. Florida families are able to live the American Dream with the help of the successful, innovative companies that call Florida home. I am thankful to these companies for their help in making Florida a great state for business and congratulate them on their achievements.”

Algenol Biofuels of Fort Myers won the Innovation and Entrepreneurship award in a major market.

Algenol is a global, industrial biotechnology company that produces ethanol and other biofuels from its patented algae technology.

The award is well deserved as Algenol has created over 100 new jobs in Lee County since relocating here in 2010. In addition to the jobs created, Algenol received a $25 million Department of Energy Grant and $10 million from Lee County to build and operate an integrated biorefinery in Lee County, and have raised more than $160 million of private equity capital to expand their research abilities. Paul Woods, Algenol CEO stated "Algenol is very pleased to accept the Governor’s Award for Innovation. We are proud to be recognized for developing a disruptive and high tech solution for making green fuels below market price. We look forward to working with Enterprise Florida in building the first commercial Algenol facility in central Florida where jobs are needed most. The award is a testimony to the hard work and dedication of Algenol's staff, and the partnership we have created with the Department of Agriculture to define regulatory and safety policies for Algenol's commercial facilities".

Secretary of Commerce Swoope congratulated Woods, Algenol, and all recipients saying, “Florida and its companies continue to be the model for economic recovery and growth in the nation. Companies from every industry around the state have helped produce jobs and provide opportunities that companies in other states just haven’t been able to match. They truly deserve to be recognized for their resilience, innovation and achievements. On behalf of EFI, congratulations to each of these worthy companies and we look forward to their continued success.”

EFI has hosted the annual program for 30 years with winners chosen by a panel of judges that includes business leaders, past winners and EFI staff. Woods attended the special recognition event at the Governor’s Mansion on January 21st.

“We appreciate being recognized for the work we have done,” said Woods, “Algenol truly is an innovative company and we are happy to be a part of Florida’s economic success.”

For more information on the Governor’s Innovators of Business Awards, please visit www.eflorida.com/govawards.

more ADVANCED BIOFUELS...