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2025 phaseZERO: Innovation Incubator Awardees Announced

phaseZERO

Cyber Florida at USF Announces Awardees of the phaseZERO: Innovation Incubator Seed Fund Program

February 11, 2025—Tampa, Fla—Cyber Florida at USF announces today the recipients of the phaseZERO Innovation Incubator seed fund program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to support early-stage cybersecurity startups in Florida. This year’s awardees—TrustConnect, LLC; Stablein Solutions; CyberMirage, LLC; and AI-Guardian Lab, LLC—presented innovative solutions to tackle critical cybersecurity challenges across industries.

PhaseZERO, an initiative under Cyber Florida’s commitment to fostering cybersecurity innovation, provides selected startups with seed funding and strategic mentorship to accelerate their business development. This year’s recipients bring diverse cutting-edge solutions to the cybersecurity landscape, from AI-driven workforce training to anti-web scraping technologies. Each recipient will receive $60,000 in funding, mentorship, and access to resources to refine their business strategies and accelerate market readiness. The phaseZERO initiative is part of Cyber Florida’s broader mission to strengthen the state’s cybersecurity ecosystem through education, research, and industry collaboration.

Three of the four innovative recipients are affiliated with the University of South Florida.

Awardees, their innovations, and a remark about the significance of receiving the award:

  • AI-Guardian Lab, LLC – Developing an AI-powered platform that safeguards teenagers from online human trafficking threats in gaming and social media environments. AI-Guardian aims to provide scalable solutions for schools and community programs using real-time behavior analysis and proactive intervention strategies.
    • Tingting Zhang, Ph.D., Muma College of Business School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, University of South Florida, stated, “We are deeply honored by the phaseZERO award, which fuels our passion to push the boundaries of cybersecurity. With this support, we have unleashed an AI-powered real-time monitoring and learning system. This innovation transforms our AI Guardian into a digital shield that swiftly alerts parents to hidden human trafficking risks on teens’ mobile devices.”
  • CyberMirage, LLC – Pioneering an advanced data loss prevention and anti-web scraping solution that incorporates obfuscated fonts, multi-layered image protection, and document security technologies. Their early-stage technology has already secured its first customer and is positioned for broader market adoption.
    • Yao Liu, Ph.D., Professor, Computer Science and Engineering, University of South Florida, stated, “Receiving support from the Cyber Florida PhaseZERO program is of great significance to us. This support will accelerate the development and launch of our initial product for data loss prevention against insider threats and web scraping. With this backing, we can expedite the commercialization of our technologies and bring our products to market much sooner.”
  • Stablein Solutions – Creating a Secure AI Automation Cybersecurity Framework that integrates machine learning and multi-layered security measures to optimize business processes. Their solution targets logistics and manufacturing industries, focusing on reducing manual processing costs and increasing workflow accuracy.
    • Marlena Harkless, COO, Stablein Solutions and Thomas Stablein, Ph.D., Muma College of Business School of IS & Management, University of South Florida, released this statement: “Receiving the PhaseZERO Cyber Florida grant is more than just a milestone for Stablein Solutions—it’s a pivotal moment of validation and potential. As a startup focused in AI powered process automation, this award will enable us to secure critical APIs and advance cybersecurity innovation, empowering us to transform our vision of a more secure digital landscape into a tangible reality. We are deeply honored to be selected and equally motivated to elevate our community’s technological infrastructure in 2025 and beyond. This grant isn’t just funding; it’s a catalyst for meaningful change, enabling us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in cybersecurity and contribute to Florida’s emerging reputation as a hub of technological innovation.”
  • TrustConnect, LLC—Developing CyberReady in the Workplace, an AI-assisted cybersecurity training platform that personalizes learning through gamification and social engagement. The platform, designed for medium to large enterprises, aims to reduce cyber incident risks by 30%.
    • Xueping Liang, Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity, Blockchain and Smart Cities, Florida International University, said, “We are honored to receive the phaseZERO award, as it represents a crucial step in translating our research into real-world impact. This award enables us to advance our customer discovery efforts, refine our commercialization strategy, and strengthen industry collaborations. It is an exciting opportunity to bridge the gap between academic research and practical business applications and solutions, ultimately contributing to innovation in cybersecurity and emerging technologies.”

Ernie Ferraresso, senior director of Cyber Florida at USF, emphasized the importance of supporting early-stage cybersecurity ventures in Florida. “The phaseZERO program reflects our commitment to nurturing cybersecurity innovation in Florida, reducing the barriers to getting high impact cybersecurity solutions into the marketplace. These awardees represent visionary and practical cybersecurity solutions, each addressing real-world challenges with groundbreaking technologies. We’re excited to support their journey and see their impact on the industry and cybersecurity.”

Contact Cyber Outreach Manager Jennifer Kleman, APR, CPRC, to coordinate interviews with the award recipients at [email protected].

For more information about phaseZERO, visit cyberflorida.org/phasezero. For more information about Cyber Florida and its mission to advance cybersecurity in the state, visit cyberflorida.org. Read an update about a phaseZERO pilot program awardee, StudySpaces, co-founded by two USF alumni, in this blog post.

ABOUT CYBER FLORIDA AT USF
The Florida Center for Cybersecurity at the University of South Florida, commonly referred to as Cyber Florida at USF, was established by the Florida Legislature in 2014. Its mission is to position Florida as a national leader in cybersecurity through comprehensive education, cutting-edge research, and extensive outreach. Cyber Florida leads various initiatives to inspire and educate current and future cybersecurity professionals, advance applied research, and enhance cybersecurity awareness and safety of individuals and organizations.

ABOUT PHASEZERO: INNOVATION INCUBATOR
Cyber Florida at USF’s phaseZERO: Innovation Incubator supports Florida-based researchers and entrepreneurs in commercializing cybersecurity innovations and launching new businesses. Modeled after federal SBIR/STTR Phase I programs, it complements statewide initiatives like the Florida High-Tech Corridor and I-Corps. phaseZERO provides critical seed funding and mentorship to help entrepreneurs succeed. It advances Cyber Florida at USF’s mission to foster research partnerships, attract cybersecurity companies, and support new ventures in the state.

2025 phaseZERO: Innovation Incubator Awardees Announced2025-02-11T10:18:35-05:00

Industry Certification with CompTIA: OPK12 Webinar

Join Cyber Florida and CompTIA for an engaging and informative webinar designed to help educators navigate the evolving industry certification landscape. This session will explore the importance of industry certifications in preparing students for successful IT careers and highlight professional development opportunities for teachers, including CompTIA’s new OnDemand training. Learn about the upcoming Summer Professional Development Camp, designed to help educators upskill and earn certifications at their own pace, and explore key industry trends in Florida, the transition from IT Fundamentals+ to the new Tech+ certification, and how these changes are shaping the future of IT education. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and resources to support your students and your professional growth!
Topics to Be Discussed:
  • The importance of industry certifications for student success.
  • Teacher professional development opportunities with CompTIA OnDemand training.
  • Details about the Summer Professional Development Camp for educators.
  • Industry trends and workforce demands in Florida’s IT sector.
  • The transition from IT Fundamentals+ to the new Tech+ certification and its impact on IT education.


Industry Certification with CompTIA: OPK12 Webinar2025-02-10T09:26:58-05:00

StudySpaces

Jamshidbek “Jam” Mirzakhalov

Jamshidbek “Jam” Mirzakhalov

Axhens “Jesse” Mara

Axhens “Jesse” Mara

Cyber Florida’s phaseZERO: Incubation Innovator Seed Fund Awardee – StudySpaces

Receiving a seed fund grant from Cyber Florida at USF “has been a game-changer for StudySpaces,” says co-founder Axhens “Jesse” Mara. Along with co-founder Jamshidbek “Jam” Mirzakhalov, Mara launched StudySpaces with the goal of improving cybersecurity education through innovative, hands-on learning tools. The two met while studying at the University of South Florida, where they both earned their degrees and developed a shared passion for advancing cybersecurity training.

The funding has accelerated StudySpaces’ development, refined its platform, and brought its vision to life. This support has been transformative for a growing startup, allowing them to compete with larger industry players and expand their reach.

Looking ahead, the StudySpaces team plans to enhance its platform’s AI capabilities and expand its content engine to support more learning materials. They aim to equip more individuals with the cybersecurity skills needed to succeed by continually improving testing and training features.

For those looking to make an impact in cybersecurity education and research, the StudySpaces team emphasizes adaptability. “Focus on building tools that address real-world needs,” said Mara. “Listen to feedback, test your ideas continuously, and embrace new approaches. Practical, hands-on learning makes the biggest difference.”

Reflecting on the effect of Cyber Florida’s support, Mara shared, “The grant turned our vision into reality. StudySpaces is already helping people learn and gain skills more effectively by combining adaptive curriculum generation, testing, and tutoring. We are proud of what we’ve built and excited for the future as we continue to evolve and make a real impact.”

This is just the beginning for StudySpaces. With ongoing innovation and the support of programs like phaseZERO, the team is excited to refine their platform further and expand their influence on cybersecurity education.

StudySpaces2025-02-07T14:21:58-05:00

A Human Story in a Cyber World: The Awkward Hug

Jayson Street and Rex Wilson

Jayson Street and Rex Wilson

The humans behind the story, Jayson Street and Rex Wilson, demonstrate the awkwardest of awkward hugs at Sunshine Cyber Con 2024

By Rex Wilson, Cyber Florida Brand Manager

Jayson E. Street—the self-described hacker, helper, and human—is known for a lot of things. Not surprising for someone who robs banks for a living. (Legally, of course.) In his world, reputations tend to precede people. But among the many things Jayson is known for, one stands out: the awkward hug.

Before meeting him at Sunshine Cyber Con in 2024, I assumed an awkward hug was just a poorly executed embrace—one where both participants weren’t equally committed. That might be true in some circles, but not in Jayson’s world. When we finally met in person, he asked, “Do you want a little awkward or full throttle?” Like any self-respecting, socially awkward introvert, I went for full throttle. The result? The photo you see in this post—an unforgettable moment I’ll treasure for a long time.

But as much as I loved that interaction, it wasn’t even my most memorable Jayson moment of Sunshine 2024. That honor goes to a simple conversation we had between sessions.

While running around conducting interviews for a documentary, I kept noticing Jayson stationed at a table in a high-traffic area. Every time I passed by, he was engaged in conversation with different attendees—sometimes one-on-one, sometimes with three or four at once. Eventually, I caught a quiet moment with him and asked, Why park yourself in such a visible spot? Isn’t it exhausting to be ‘on’ all day?

“Yes,” he admitted. “But this might be the only chance some of these people have to connect with me in person, and I have to be there for them. Who knows what will come out of that conversation?”

That philosophy—being present, making space for connection—seems to define the way Jayson moves through life. And I admire it. Peopling can be hard, but the right conversations can be life-changing, soul-enriching.

This year, Jayson returns as our keynote speaker, and I couldn’t be more excited for his talk, How to Hack Like a Failure (Like Me!). But that wasn’t quite enough Jayson for us, so we also invited him to join our Do We Belong Here? podcast for a live recording—an epic combination in the making. And as the icing on the Sunshine cake, he’s bringing some of his hacker friends to launch our first-ever Hear from the Hackers track.

Want to experience all of this in person? Register for Sunshine Cyber Con today. It’s an awesome event—even if you’re not an awkward hugger.

A Human Story in a Cyber World: The Awkward Hug2025-02-05T13:14:24-05:00

Key Requirements & Resources for Cybersecurity Compliance

Florida Statute 282.3185 outlines important cybersecurity requirements for local governments. The table below highlights key focus areas and provides valuable resources to support compliance efforts.

Florida Statue Requirement Resources
282.3185(3)(a)1 Develop a basic cybersecurity training curriculum for local government employees. All employees with access to the local network must complete training within 30 days of employment and annually thereafter. Florida Digital Service Locals-Resource-Packet-2023v1.1.pdf

Cyber Florida’s FirstLine Flexible No-Cost Training Options
282.3185(4) Adopt cybersecurity standards consistent with best practices, such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework. Cyber Florida’s NIST CSF 2.0 Risk Assessment
If your organization doesn’t have on-staff expertise, Cyber Florida will connect you with an expert who can help you complete the assessment. Attend a Cyber Florida virtual or in-person workshop. Email [email protected] for upcoming dates and times.
282.3185(4)(d) Notify the Florida Digital Service of your progress on cybersecurity standards. Florida Digital Service Attestation Form

These resources are designed to make meeting the requirements straightforward and achievable. Cyber Florida’s expertise and tools can help you identify opportunities, develop strong practices, and ensure your cybersecurity goals are aligned with our state’s cybersecurity goals.

If you have any questions or need further support, please don’t hesitate to contact Cyber Florida at https://cyberflorida.org/connect/ or email [email protected].

Thank you for your ongoing efforts to strengthen cybersecurity!

Key Requirements & Resources for Cybersecurity Compliance2025-02-01T15:03:40-05:00

Sunshine Cyber Conference to Unite Experts in Advancing Florida’s Cybersecurity Landscape

January 30, 2025—Tampa, Fla—Cyber Florida at USF announces the Sunshine Cyber Conference, set to take place on February 24 and 25, 2025, at the JW Marriot Tampa Water Street in Tampa. This premier event will bring together cybersecurity professionals, policymakers, educators, and students from across Florida and beyond to address emerging threats and innovative solutions shaping the future of cybersecurity.

The conference will feature keynote speakers from industry-leading organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions, who will provide insights into cybersecurity trends and challenges. Attendees can participate in expert-led panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and networking sessions to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the state.

“As cyber threats continue to evolve, we must bring together leaders from across sectors to strengthen Florida’s cyber resilience,” said Senior Director Ernie Ferraresso of Cyber Florida. “The Sunshine Cyber Conference is an invaluable opportunity for cybersecurity professionals to connect, learn, and share expertise. Additionally, with an attractive price point for students and those interested in learning more about cybersecurity, this event is a great entry point into a welcoming and supportive community eager to help new talent grow.”

In addition to industry insights, the conference will highlight Cyber Florida’s education, workforce development, and public-sector cybersecurity training initiatives, reinforcing the state’s commitment to building a strong cybersecurity talent pipeline.

Registration is required to attend the Sunshine Cyber Conference. Visit https://cyberflorida.org/sunshine/ to register or for more information, including the agenda and exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities.

For more information about Cyber Florida and its mission to advance cybersecurity in the state, visit https://cyberflorida.org/.

ABOUT CYBER FLORIDA AT USF
The Florida Center for Cybersecurity at the University of South Florida, commonly referred to as Cyber Florida at USF, was established by the Florida Legislature in 2014. Its mission is to position Florida as a national leader in cybersecurity through comprehensive education, cutting-edge research, and extensive outreach. Cyber Florida leads various initiatives to inspire and educate both current and future cybersecurity professionals, advance applied research, and enhance cybersecurity awareness and safety of individuals and organizations.

Sunshine Cyber Conference to Unite Experts in Advancing Florida’s Cybersecurity Landscape2025-01-29T16:05:25-05:00

Strengthening Florida’s Cybersecurity with the Cyber Risk Assessment

Cybersecurity has become a critical priority for organizations across public and private sectors. Recognizing this need, Cyber Florida has developed the Florida Cyber Risk Assessment (FCRA), a no-cost, confidential cybersecurity risk assessment aligned with NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0. The FCRA is designed to assist critical infrastructure (CI) organizations in identifying and mitigating cybersecurity risks, complying with best practices outlined in the Florida Cyber Act (Statute 282.318), and building resilience against cyber threats.

What is the Florida Cyber Risk Assessment?

The FCRA is a Florida-specific adaptation of the Cyber Security Evaluation Tool (CSET®) developed by Idaho National Lab. It incorporates 106 NIST CSF questions and 48 Ransomware Readiness Assessment (RRA) questions, providing a structured approach for organizations to strengthen their cybersecurity frameworks. Participants can generate customized reports to enhance their cyber defense strategies and align with legal and regulatory requirements.

Addressing Gaps in Florida’s Critical Infrastructure Sectors

Recent FCRA assessments have revealed significant cybersecurity gaps within Florida’s CI sectors:

  • Lack of Response and Recovery Plans: 50% of CI providers lack robust response and recovery plans.
  • Weak Authentication Practices: Half of CI organizations do not use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
  • Inconsistent Partner Audits: While 39% conduct response planning with third-party providers, only 48% regularly audit these partners’ cybersecurity practices.
  • Limited Training Programs: 49% lack formal cybersecurity training programs beyond basic awareness.
  • Unclear Management Responsibilities: Nearly half of providers do not have assigned cyber-management responsibilities, with 49% lacking a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
  • Infrequent Incident Response Exercises: Only 48% of organizations conduct biannual incident response tabletop exercises.
  • Undefined Risk Tolerance: Just 53% of CI providers have clearly defined their risk tolerance, highlighting a critical gap in risk management strategies.

Enhancements and Tools to Support Cybersecurity

To address these challenges, Cyber Florida has implemented or is developing several tools and initiatives:

  • Entry and Mid-Level Assessments:
    • A 20-question entry-level assessment evaluates organizations’ protections based on the top 20 areas of concern.
    • A 38-question mid-level assessment measures cybersecurity maturity against CISA Cybersecurity Performance Goals (CPGs).
  • Maturity Modeling: A maturity index based on the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) template helps organizations benchmark their cybersecurity practices.
  • AI-Driven Resource Mapping Tool: In development, this innovative tool generates summaries from NIST 800-53 for all 106 CSF questions. Users will be able to efficiently create comprehensive cyber plans, including governance, incident response, and recovery plans.
  • Workshops: A series of cybersecurity presentations aimed at raising awareness and educating CI organizations in both the public and private sectors.

New Tools and 2025 Initiatives

Cyber Florida continues to innovate and expand its efforts to enhance cybersecurity across the state. Notable initiatives include:

  • Florida CI Mapping Pilot Project (Cyber-Bulls-I): A first-in-the-nation resource to help CI sectors address cyber risks, meet legal requirements, and build future compliance capacity. This tool provides risk reduction resources tailored to Florida’s sectors, risks, needs, and vulnerabilities.
  • Enterprise Data Management Platform: A forthcoming platform designed to identify grant, research and development, and policy opportunities for Florida’s CI sectors.
  • Visualization and Dashboard Tools: New tools for state leadership to monitor and address cybersecurity challenges effectively.
  • Workforce Development Initiatives: These include a new mapping tool to support small business and defense industry growth.

The Path Forward

With its comprehensive approach and cutting-edge tools, the Florida Cyber Risk Assessment is paving the way for a stronger cybersecurity posture across Florida’s critical infrastructure sectors. Organizations adopting the FCRA’s recommendations and utilizing its resources will be better equipped to protect themselves against evolving cyber threats and ensure compliance with industry standards and legal mandates.

Cyber Florida remains committed to fostering a secure, resilient, and innovative cyber environment for Florida. For more information or to participate in the FCRA, visit https://cyberflorida.org/cip/ today.

Strengthening Florida’s Cybersecurity with the Cyber Risk Assessment2025-01-17T12:42:18-05:00

GNSI Tampa Summit | The Russia-Ukraine War: Lessons for Future Conflicts

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has created a sharp evolution, if not a revolution, in modern conflict and wartime strategy. Emerging technologies and innovative strategies such as drone employment, information operations, social media, and battlefield medical treatment have featured prominently and will impact how combatants around the world approach future conflict. How can we expect these lessons to be applied, and how should U.S. national policy address these changes?

In cooperation with the USF College of Arts and Sciences, the Institute for Russians, European, and Eurasian Studies and the United States Central Command, GNSI Tampa Summit 5 will bring together the country’s boldest scholars, subject matter experts, and policymakers to probe deeply into those questions and many more.

General (Ret) Frank Mckenzie

Executive Director, GNSI, University of South Florida and former commander of U.S. Central Command

John Kirby

White House National Security Communications Advisor

Olga Chiriac, PhD

Project Europe Director, Irregular Warfare Initiative

Ambassador (Ret) Bill Taylor

Vice President, Europe and Russia, USIP and former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine

David Kramer

Executive Director, George W. Bush Institute

Peter Pomerantsev

Senior Fellow, SNF Agora Institute, Johns Hopkins University

These are just a few of the all-star lineup of speakers. Additional discussions:

• Ukraine Strategic Lessons

• Drones in Modern War: Land, Sea and Air

• The Impact on Europe and NATO

Deep Dive Breakout Sessions are Back!

• Medical Treatment in War

• Russian/Iranian/North Korean Cooperation

• Civilians in War

GNSI Tampa Summit | The Russia-Ukraine War: Lessons for Future Conflicts2025-03-06T14:40:03-05:00

Ernie Ferraresso Appointed to FL Cybersecurity Advisory Council

Cyber Florida Director Ernie Ferraresso

December 9, 2024—Tampa, Fla—Cyber Florida at USF is proud to announce Governor Ron DeSantis’ appointment of Director Ernie Ferraresso to the Florida Cybersecurity Advisory Council. This appointment highlights the state’s unwavering commitment to enhancing cyber defense and safeguarding critical infrastructure.

Ferraresso, a distinguished veteran of the United States Marine Corps, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the council. As Cyber Florida’s director, he spearheads efforts to advance the state’s cybersecurity initiatives through education, outreach, research, and workforce development. Ferraresso also serves as a Senior Fellow at Auburn University’s McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security, contributing to national strategies for securing vital systems against cyber threats.

“I am honored to join the Florida Cybersecurity Advisory Council and support the state’s mission to strengthen its defenses against evolving cyber threats,” said Ferraresso. “Cyber Florida’s commitment to collaboration and innovation aligns seamlessly with the council’s goals, and I look forward to contributing to a safer and more secure Florida.”

Ferraresso earned his bachelor’s degree from Barry University and has dedicated his career to addressing the challenges of cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection. His expertise will help guide the council in shaping policies and strategies to bolster Florida’s cyber resilience.

The Florida Cybersecurity Advisory Council plays a pivotal role in providing guidance to protect the state’s critical systems and infrastructure, ensuring Florida remains at the forefront of cybersecurity preparedness.

Ferraresso is available for interviews through December 18, 2024. Please make arrangements through Cyber Outreach Manager Jennifer Kleman at [email protected]. For more information about Cyber Florida and its mission to advance cybersecurity in the state, visit https://cyberflorida.org/.

ABOUT CYBER FLORIDA AT USF

The Florida Center for Cybersecurity at the University of South Florida, commonly referred to as Cyber Florida at USF, was established by the Florida Legislature in 2014. Its mission is to position Florida as a national leader in cybersecurity through comprehensive education, cutting-edge research, and extensive outreach. Cyber Florida leads various initiatives to inspire and educate both current and future cybersecurity professionals, advance applied research, and enhance cybersecurity awareness and safety of individuals and organizations.

Ernie Ferraresso Appointed to FL Cybersecurity Advisory Council2024-12-10T09:28:11-05:00

phaseZERO: Innovation Incubator Announced

phaseZERO

Cyber Florida at USF Announces phaseZERO: Innovation Incubator to Boost Cybersecurity Innovation in Florida

December 2, 2024—Tampa, Fla—Cyber Florida at USF is proud to announce the launch of phaseZERO: Innovation Incubator, an innovative seed fund initiative designed to support Florida-based researchers and emerging entrepreneurs in transforming cutting-edge cybersecurity ideas into thriving businesses. With a focus on commercializing cybersecurity innovations, strengthening critical infrastructure, and creating new opportunities, phaseZERO aims to establish Florida as a national leader in cybersecurity entrepreneurship.

Modeled after the Small Business Administration’s SBIR/STTR Phase I programs, phaseZERO addresses critical gaps in seed funding and provides expert mentorship, complementing existing statewide efforts like the Florida High-Tech Corridor, I-Corps, and local incubators and accelerators.

“This program is about removing barriers for innovators,” said Dr. Manish Agrawal, Cyber Florida at USF academic director at Cyber Florida and USF professor. “By providing funding and mentorship without taking equity, we’re enabling Florida’s entrepreneurs to focus on what matters most: building solutions that strengthen our cybersecurity resilience.”

Program Highlights

For this round of funding, phaseZERO will award up to $60,000 each to up to four emerging Florida companies (not to exceed $240,000 total) selected through a rigorous, three-stage evaluation process:

  • Stage 1: Applicants submit a completed application and a brief business plan for technical and business evaluation by a Cyber Florida Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR).
  • Stage 2: Selected applicants pitch their plans to an evaluation panel during a virtual event.
  • Stage 3: The evaluation panel selects awardees who receive funding in installments while working with an EIR to establish their business, secure further funding, and prepare for operations.

Funded companies gain access to Cyber Florida’s expansive network of state innovation ecosystem partners, including universities, accelerators, and industry leaders.

Timeline

  • Application Launch: December 2, 2024
  • Application Deadline: January 3, 2025
  • Pitch Event Invitations: January 10, 2025
  • Pitch Event: January 24, 2025

Through phaseZERO, Cyber Florida continues its mission to foster research partnerships, attract cybersecurity companies to Florida, and enable the creation of new ventures.

For more information about phaseZERO, application details, and how to get involved, visit cyberflorida.org/phasezero.

ABOUT CYBER FLORIDA AT USF
The Florida Center for Cybersecurity at the University of South Florida, commonly referred to as Cyber Florida at USF, was established by the Florida Legislature in 2014. Its mission is to position Florida as a national leader in cybersecurity through comprehensive education, cutting-edge research, and extensive outreach. Cyber Florida leads various initiatives to inspire and educate both current and future cybersecurity professionals, advance applied research, and enhance cybersecurity awareness and safety of individuals and organizations.

phaseZERO: Innovation Incubator Announced2024-12-02T13:37:28-05:00

CONTACT US

Cyber Florida at USF
4202 E. Fowler Avenue, ISA7020
Tampa, FL 33620

Office meetings by appointment only

PRIVACY POLICY

Copyright 2024 The Florida Center for Cybersecurity at the University of South Florida. Information on this website is made available for general educational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of obtaining competent legal advice from a licensed attorney or cybersecurity professional with sufficient expertise necessary to address your specific needs. Use of this website does not create any special or fiduciary relationship between you and the Florida Center for Cybersecurity or the University of South Florida.