~ Also Launches HireFloridaGrads.com ~

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Rick Scott announced the creation of the “Young Entrepreneur Award” to recognize Florida students, college graduates and young entrepreneurs who are excelling in the workplace and creating innovative ideas in Florida. Governor Scott is also issuing a challenge to all Floridians to connect with new job openings throughout the state utilizing services such as our Hire Florida Grads program. In just four and a half years, Florida businesses have added over 896,000 new jobs and resources like Hire Florida Grads will continue adding to Florida’s tremendous job growth.

Governor Rick Scott said, “I am excited to begin recognizing young Floridians who are working hard and taking every opportunity to succeed. Having grown up in a family that struggled to make ends meet, I know that a great job is life changing. I am excited to launch the ‘Young Entrepreneur Award’ throughout Florida, while also sharing the great resources that Florida has to help our young people find jobs. By working hard, students and young entrepreneurs are one step closer to establishing a career and achieving their dreams in Florida.”

Education Commissioner Pam Stewart said, “Beginning with students in Kindergarten, Florida educators are working toward the goal of preparing Florida students for success in college, career and life. It’s evident Governor Rick Scott values the talent emerging from Florida public schools and I am pleased he will acknowledge the hard work of Florida’s most promising young business leaders.”

Jesse Panuccio, Executive Director, Department of Economic Opportunity, said “Florida’s excellent education system is graduating some of this country’s best and brightest students. We want our next generation of talent to pursue their dreams right here in the Sunshine State, and we have created the economic climate to help them succeed. The next big idea is out there, and we hope it will take root here in Florida.”

Chris Hart IV, President and CEO of CareerSource Florida, said, “Today’s young entrepreneurs are driving tomorrow’s economy, and Governor Scott’s Young Entrepreneur Award provides an opportunity to recognize the best and brightest who are creating new companies and starting new businesses here every day. Through training programs and the groundbreaking research and development underway at our universities and colleges, there has never been a better time to create your own future in Florida.”   

About the Young Entrepreneur Award

The Young Entrepreneur Award is eligible for young Floridians under the age of 35 who have demonstrated a strong work ethic and an exceptional motivation to succeed in their future career. To learn more about the award, visit HireFloridaGrads.com.

About HireFloridaGrads.com

At the end of each school semester, HireFloridaGrads.com  will be available to recent college graduates who are searching for employment. Graduates can complete profiles that will assist regional workforce advisors in matching job seekers with job opportunities. Employers interested in hiring college graduates are also encouraged to visit EmployFlorida.com or call the jobs hotline at (866) 352-2345 to speak with a representative in their area.

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