CFK opens applications for Entrepreneurship Incubator Lab at Upper Keys Center

Program to boost local business ventures with expert mentorship, hands-on workshops, and a pitch showcase

KEY LARGO, FL, August 4, 2026 — The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) is now accepting applications for its Entrepreneurship Incubator Lab (EIL). CFK’s EIL program is designed for aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs in the Upper Keys, Homestead, and Florida City who are ready to develop, launch, or grow a business venture. The last day to apply is September 25thand the program is open to:

• Current CFK students from all academic disciplines
• CFK alumni seeking to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities
• Upper Keys, Homestead, and Florida City residents with innovative business ideas or startup concepts
• New and early-stage business owners who want to expand, refine, or strengthen their operations

CFK’s EIL was made possible with a $25,220 grant from the Ocean Reef Community Foundation (ORCF). This innovative, hands-on program based at CFK’s Upper Keys Center will help aspiring entrepreneurs, students, and local business owners transform ideas into viable ventures. The ORCF grant covers inaugural costs to allow the first participants to attend free of charge. Participants will compete for $7,500 in awards during the program’s culminating “Pitch Night Showcase.”

“CFK’s Entrepreneurship Incubator Lab is a rare opportunity to accelerate growing your business and network,” said Dr. Jesus Vazquez, Faculty, Supervision and Management at CFK who will lead the program for the College.
The EIL will be an eight-week entrepreneurial program that guides participants through the processes of idea development and planning, marketing, sales, financials, and operations. The EIL program model encourages accountability, collaboration, and peer networking while guiding participants on how to build and refine their ventures alongside fellow entrepreneurs.

Key dates for the EIL are:

• Applications Open: August 1
• Applications Close: September 25
• EIL Program Workshop Begins: October 5

Applications should be submitted through the CFK website under a “Community Education and Workforce” classification here: https://www.cfk.edu/admissions/apply-now/. Once on the “Apply Now” page, applicants need to:

• Login to an existing CFK account or create an account if new to the College;
• Complete an application for a Community Education and Workforce course at the Key Largo location for Fall 2026; and
• Be certain to check “Yes” under the question, “Are you applying for the Entrepreneurship Incubator Lab (EIL)?”

For more information, visit the Entrepreneurship Incubator Lab, or contact Dr. Jesus Vazquez at (305) 809-3328 or [email protected]