The results of an independent audit of the second year of BizLINC, the City of Lake Wales business incubator, have been received and reviewed by the city.
BizLINC is facilitated by the Florida Development Corporation (FDC) through a three-year grant agreement with the Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). Located at 225 Lincoln Ave., the facility engages entrepreneurs to assist them with such services as strategic planning, financial reporting, technical assistance, e-commerce support, public-speaking certifications, office space, and more.
An audit completed earlier this summer, covering the first year of the program, resulted in several items not being compliant with initial expectations. The second audit, dated August 26, has provided seemingly better results.
Jack Hilligoss, Mayor of the City of Lake Wales, says that while the improvement is satisfactory, it’s also vital to look at the successes coming out of the business incubator.
“I am happy that the AUP audit of Biz Linc has been completed and satisfied with its findings,” says Hilligoss. “The Audit reveals FDC has met or exceeded the deliverables we agreed upon in all but a couple of areas. And even in those areas, the discrepancies, in my opinion, are minor.
“More important than the black and white statistics, this process has introduced us to people who have started construction, HVAC, lawn care, consulting, and educational companies among thirty businesses receiving service and support through Biz LInc. All of those companies are based in Lake Wales, twenty one of them are owned by residents of Lake Wales. They have generated forty jobs for residents as well. Several of those entrepreneurs have spoken to the Commission with great sincerity and enthusiasm of how the Biz Linc incubator has been vital to their launch and success.”
Derrick Blue, co-founder and chief operating officer of FDC who oversees the operation of the BizLinc facility, is pleased with the work that is happening and acknowledges some positive results. 
“The recent performance audit findings further validate the work we’ve been doing to fuel the economic engine of the Northwest Community and, ultimately, the entire city,” says Blue. “While we exceeded expectations overall, like any inaugural initiative, it wasn’t perfect—but I’d say we came pretty close. More than the positive audit report, what truly makes us proud are the success stories we witness from the businesses we support. We have the privilege of being part of changing lives.
“Statistically, many businesses fail within their first three to five years, but several BizLINC companies are on a trajectory to defy those odds. Not only are they becoming profitable, but they’re also creating job opportunities for others in the community. That’s the kind of impact we set out to achieve, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see it come to life.”
Blue offers an example of the program’s success in Corey Young, owner of AIC Lawn Care Services, a business that has grown through BizLINC.
“Being part of BizLINC has been a game-changer for us,” says Young. “The support and resources received by this organization have not only helped our business grow, but also allowed us to give back to the community in meaningful ways, such as our Annual Give Love At Christmas Toy Drive, that has enabled our businesses to partner with BizLinc and other small businesses within our community, that will donate toys to young kids with a Toy for Christmas.
“We’ve secured new contracts, expanded our team, and it’s incredibly rewarding to be a role model for young black men in the Northwest Community. My wife Lori and I are committed to not just building our businesses, but also inspiring others to see what’s possible when you have the right support and a strong work ethic. BizLINC is more than a business incubator; it’s a community lifeline.”
