Transformative state investment ignites Florida Poly's new era of growth

LAKELAND, Fla., June 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida Polytechnic University is set to accelerate its bold growth plans following the Florida Legislature's approval of $22 million in the state's 2025-2026 budget. The new funding significantly advances the University's efforts to increase enrollment, expand in-demand academic programs and drive campus infrastructure growth.

The allocation will boost progress on the new Student Achievement Center (StAC), a state-of-the-art student support facility, and fuel the University's strategic initiatives to grow both academically and in student population.

The legislative investment includes $12 million to begin construction of the StAC – an $85 million, 138,400-square-foot facility designed as a dynamic hub for student development. The StAC will provide a broad range of resources focused on student success, including academic support, career planning, professional development resources, and student engagement programs. The funds were allocated through a combination of the state's Public Education Capital Outlay (PECO) trust fund and House Supplemental Funding.

"Florida Poly is transforming the landscape of higher education in our region, and with this new facility, students will gain access to the kinds of hands-on support and experiences that prepare them to step directly into Florida's growing technology sector," said State Rep. Josie Tomkow, who represents part of Polk County. "It's an investment that pays off in talent, innovation, and long-term impact."

In addition, Florida Poly secured $10 million in non-recurring funds to support the Rising to 3,000 initiative, a strategic effort to increase student enrollment to 3,000 by 2030. The funding will strengthen the University's ability to attract highly talented students and further elevate the institution's academic profile.

"This level of support sends a clear message: Florida Poly is essential to the state's future," said Dr. Devin Stephenson, president of Florida Poly. "We are deeply grateful to the Florida Legislature for investing in our momentum and helping us build the high-tech talent pipeline Florida's economy depends on."

The newly approved funding reflects a growing recognition of the University's rising impact – not only as a driver of academic excellence but also as a catalyst for groundbreaking research and economic growth.

"Florida Poly is creating a new kind of opportunity for Florida students – one grounded in excellence, innovation, and real-world application," said State Rep. Jennifer Canady, who represents part of Polk County. "This year's investment supports its continued rise as a leader in STEM education and ensures students have the resources they need to thrive in high-tech fields that matter most to our state."

As Florida's only public university exclusively dedicated to STEM disciplines, Florida Poly is uniquely positioned to meet the demands of the state's evolving economy through its focus on emerging technologies and industry collaboration. The new funding will bolster that mission by helping prepare the next generation of tech leaders.

"Florida Poly is not just educating students, it's shaping the future of Florida's economy," said State Sen. Colleen Burton, who represents part of Polk County. "From its cutting-edge research to its outstanding graduates, the University continues to prove how powerful a focused, STEM-driven education can be for the state and beyond."

The state budget, currently awaiting final approval and subject to line-item vetoes by Gov. Ron DeSantis, will take effect on July 1, with the start of the 2025-26 fiscal year.

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SOURCE Florida Polytechnic University