Odessa FL, January 11, 2010 – The Launch Pad has been named a winner of the 2011 Florida Companies to Watch, an award recognizing companies that positively impact Florida’s future.  The accolade was presented to fifty companies from 18 Florida counties, earning a place in Florida’s “Companies to Watch” inaugural class.

Presented by GrowFL, the Florida Economic Gardening Institute at the University of Central Florida and ACG Florida, in association with the Edward Lowe Foundation and funding support from The Governor’s Office of Tourism, Trade and Economic Development, Companies to Watch recognizes growing, second-stage companies that demonstrate high performance in the market place and exhibit innovative products or processes. This year Florida Companies to Watch attracted 319 nominees and 109 companies were selected as finalists.

“It’s a thrill to be on the list and in the company of an elite group of Florida companies that we admire.” said The Launch Pad CEO Ilene Rosoff. “Innovation, managed growth and forward momentum are values we hold dear at The Launch Pad. To be recognized by our home state is a huge honor.”

In 1992 Rosoff founded The Launch Pad in Tampa and has since expanded nationally with the nation’s first managed IT services franchise offering. “Ultimately, we work very hard to make our clients happy and to feel proud of the work we do,” said Rosoff, adding that she has the great fortune to have a talented and dedicated team of employees. “It is very exciting to be identified by the State of Florida as a company to watch and we thank everyone who played a role our selection.”

Award recipients were selected by a panel of judges representing areas of economic development, banking, entrepreneurship and small business. In addition to being evaluated on past growth and projected success, applicants are also judged on revenue, leadership, innovation, philanthropy and human resources.

The Inaugural Class of Florida Companies to Watch will be celebrated at a gala event on Thursday, February 17 at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando.