Monday, April 13, 2026
By: Kyle Niblett
Led by No. 2 Document Crunch, the University of Florida College of Design, Construction and Planning placed 22 alumni-owned companies on the 2026 Gator100 list, the UF Alumni Association announced Friday night at a ceremony inside the Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. The annual list recognizes the 100 fastest-growing Gator-owned or Gator-led businesses in the world. Since its inception in 2015, DCP grads with successful businesses have earned the top spot four times and made up nearly 20 percent of the Gator100.
DCP Alumni-Owned Companies on Gator100 By Year
2015 – 13
2016 – 25
2017 – 11
2018 – 18
2019 – 24
2020 –22
2021 –24
2022 –14
2023 –22
2024 – 20
2025 – 25
2026 – 22
Below is a list of all DCP Alumni-led or owned companies that made the 2026 Gator100 list and where they ranked. Many of these companies joined Dean Anumba and college representatives prior to the event in the Bruno E. and Maritza F. Ramos Collaboratory for a reception. Congratulations to all these great companies!
#2
Business: Document Crunch
DCP Leader: Josh Levy, BSBC ’05
Location: Alpharetta, Georgia
Years Honored: 2026
Document Crunch is the construction industry’s leading AI Risk Reduction Platform, transforming how teams manage and understand their project documents. Built to help construction professionals review documents in seconds, guide with built-in best practices, and assist with instant answers to on-the-job questions, Document Crunch empowers teams to identify critical risks and build with confidence from bid pursuit to closeout. Powered by CrunchAI™, the company is redefining how the construction industry mitigates risk and drives stronger project outcomes.
#5
Business: Keystar, Inc.
DCP Leader: Charles “Chas” Spottswood, BSBC ’10, MBC ‘12
Location: Key West, Florida
Years Honored: 2025, 2026
Keystar, Inc. is a Key West, FL based, family-owned General Contracting firm established in 1999. Our portfolio is highly diversified having completed projects in many different areas including Residential, Commercial, Healthcare, Government, Aviation, Hospitality and more. The Keystar team is a group of highly qualified individuals with a wealth of building and construction management experience garnered from experience all over the United States. We pride ourselves on building relationships from the ground up and are committed to excellence.
#6
Business: Seagate Capital Construction
DCP Leader: Garrett Graue, BSBC ’97
Location: Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
Years Honored: 2026
Seagate Capital Construction is a company dedicated to advancing high-end luxury construction in prominent areas including Palm Beach Island, Jupiter island, West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and Delray Beach. Garrett Graue and Josh McAlees collectively have construction experience exceeding $1 Billion and have built over 3 million square feet.
At the heart of our company lies our passion to create and capture value by uncovering and developing the potential in each project we undertake. We have built our reputation on the quality of our projects, our services and the satisfaction of our clients. Seagate Capital Construction is unique in the construction industry in that we purposely limit the number of projects we are involved in so that our Team Members can dedicate the full attention your property deserves.
At Seagate Capital Construction, we build relationships that last a lifetime.
#23
Business: OnDefend
DCP Leader: Chris Freedman, BSBC ’01
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
Years Honored: 2024, 2026
OnDefend specializes in advanced cybersecurity testing that delivers ongoing security validation across the most complex technology environments. Through continuous adversary emulation, OnDefend validates every layer of technology risk by uncovering hidden attack paths, control failures, and systemic weaknesses that traditional testing often misses. OnDefend leverages deep red team expertise with proprietary innovation and AI-driven intelligence to ensure across software, cloud, hardware, IoT, and AI environments.
#26
Business: CPPI
DCP Leader: Brian Leslie, BSBC ’94
Location: Gainesville, Florida
Years Honored: 2026
CPPI is a full-service construction management, general contracting, and design-build firm proudly serving the Southeast since 1968. For more than five decades, we’ve been driven by one mission: to build long-lasting relationships and structures.
Recognized for innovation, sustainability, craftsmanship, and technical expertise, we partner with public and private-sector clients to guide projects from early planning and budgeting through scheduling and construction. Our comprehensive approach ensures every detail is aligned, every dollar is maximized, and every project is built to last.
Across healthcare, K-12, higher education, sports and public assembly, government, science and technology, and commercial markets, we build spaces where people heal, learn, work, and connect, creating a lasting impact on our community for generations to come.
#31
Business: The Benoit Group
DCP Leader: Eddy Benoit, BSBC ’93
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Years Honored: 2016, 2026
The Benoit Group is a nationally recognized real estate development and investment firm based in Atlanta, Georgia, specializing in the design, development, and management of mixed-income, multifamily, senior, student, and affordable housing communities across the United States. Founded and led by University of Florida alumnus Eddy Benoit, Jr., The Benoit Group brings a vertically integrated approach to real estate, combining strategic planning, innovative financing, and socially responsible development practices that strengthen communities and expand access to quality housing.
Over the past 16 years, The Benoit Group has successfully completed and managed over $1 billion in real estate transactions, consistently delivering transformative projects that align private capital with public investment. From revitalizing urban neighborhoods to developing projects in suburban and exurban areas, the firm’s mission is centered on creating sustainable, inclusive environments that enhance residents’ quality of life while generating long-term economic value.
The firm’s portfolio includes a range of landmark projects such as Hillcrest I & II, Englewood Mixed-Use Village, Bowen District Choice Neighborhood, and Regency & Brookstone at Cole’s Park, each representing The Benoit Group’s commitment to excellence, equity, and innovation in the built environment. Guided by the core values of integrity, collaboration, and vision. The Benoit Group continues to shape the future of real estate through impactful developments and industry thought leadership, including Shape The Deal, a real estate show hosted by Eddy that provides insights, strategies, and real-world perspectives on commercial real estate development.
#34
Business: Stone Tile Group
DCP Leader: James Antonucci, Ph.D. ’16
Location: Orlando, Florida
Years Honored: 2026
Stone Tile Group is a premier provider of luxury stone, porcelain, and tile solutions, specializing in custom estate homes. With almost 25 years of experience, we partner directly with the design-build community, serving architects, interior designers, and custom home builders. Our curated selection of high-end materials and personalized service ensures that each project meets the unique vision and standards of our clients. From concept to completion, we deliver exceptional craftsmanship and quality, making us a trusted partner in the creation of bespoke, luxurious homes.
#37
Business: Straughn Trout Architects
DCP Leader: Tim Hoeft, BDES ’04, MARC ’06, Jonathan Kirk, BDES ’95, MARC ‘97
Location: Lakeland, Fla.
Years Honored: 2019, 2020, 2023, 2025, 2026
Straughn Trout Architects, founded in 1956, has been a leading architectural firm in Central Florida for over six decades. Our practice blends timeless design principles with innovative, forward-thinking approaches, delivering solutions that enhance the built environment. We are committed to creating spaces that foster community, growth, and sustainability through collaboration, innovation, and a deep understanding of our clients’ needs.
As a multidisciplinary firm, we provide services in architecture, interior design, campus/urban planning, graphic design, and brand activation. Our tailored approach ensures that every project reflects the unique needs of our clients, offering holistic and curated design solutions.
Straughn Trout Architects has earned numerous awards for design excellence, sustainability, and community impact from organizations like the American Institute of Architects, U.S. Green Building Council, and Tampa Bay Business Journal. Our award-winning portfolio includes notable projects such as the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art, Lake Crago Outdoor Recreation Facility, and Florida’s first commercial zero-energy building, Magnify Credit Union.
Our experienced team collaborates with clients ranging from public institutions and private developers to educational entities and government agencies. With a history of fostering long-term relationships and repeat partnerships, we remain dedicated to quality and service. As we approach 70 years of practice, Straughn Trout Architects continues to prioritize client value, community impact, and sustainability, striving to shape innovative spaces that inspire future generations.
#41
Business: Edge Construction
DCP Leader: Marcelo Vila, BDES ’03, MARC ‘05; Thomas Manos, BSBC ’08 & Eric Weiss, BSBC ’08
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Years Honored: 2019, 2021, 2022, 2025, 2026
Edge Construction, a certified general contractor, provides a full range of high-value pre-construction, construction, and design-build services across South Florida. Our experienced team brings industry-leading expertise to a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, higher education, commercial, corporate office spaces and more. Founded by three graduates of the University of Florida’s College of Design, Construction, and Planning (DCP), Edge Construction combines innovation, experience, and dedication to excellence in every project.
#42
Business: Biggs Construction Company
DCP Leader: George A. Biggs, BBC ‘85 & Eric Biggs, BSCM ’20
Location: Pensacola, Fla.
Years Honored: 2023, 2025, 2026
Biggs Construction Company, Inc. was established to provide commercial construction services in Northwest Florida and South Alabama by Pensacola native George Biggs 24 years ago.
The vast majority of our clients have been from the private sector.
We prefer and usually become involved in a project during the development stage providing budgets and schedules early for feasibility studies and to guide the design within budget parameters. Approximately half of the projects we provide pre-construction services for the project is constructed. The projects that may not be constructed or services are still considered positive because they were calculated as unfeasible prior to any major expenditure.
Historically we have assisted in the development of historical restorations, industrial, manufacturing, healthcare, schools, churches, high occupancy, retail, grocery, bars, restaurants, office, warehouse and mixed-use projects. There are little conceivable aspects of light commercial construction we have not constructed. Our typical projects are unique and require close and constant management.
#46
Business: Springer Voss Construction
DCP Leaders: Jeremy Voss, BSBC ’03 & Cole Springer, BSBC ‘14
Location: Lakeland, Fla.
Years Honored: 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026
Springer Voss Construction (SVC) stands as a pillar of commercial construction in Central Florida, with a legacy of excellence, innovation, and community partnership spanning over three decades. Originally founded in 1987 as Springer Construction, the company was revitalized in 2019 under the leadership of Jeremy Voss and Cole Springer. Today, SVC is recognized as a premier general contractor, distinguished for its commitment to quality, schedule fidelity, and building lasting client trust. With over 500 projects completed across Florida in the last five years, including more than 200 in Polk County, SVC has established itself as a trusted leader in the construction industry. SVC has expanded and built a diverse portfolio of projects across industrial and warehouse facilities, retail and mixed-use developments, financial institutions, government and public works, themed entertainment venues, and healthcare and educational facilities.
SVC’s success is deeply rooted in its collaborative, relationship-driven approach, which prioritizes transparency, proactive communication, and meticulous preconstruction planning. The company has fostered strong partnerships with over 2,000 subcontractors across Florida, creating a network of skilled professionals dedicated to achieving shared goals. These longstanding relationships enable the company to assemble the right teams for each project, ensuring seamless execution and superior results. From concept to completion, the company’s unwavering focus on collaboration, accountability, and strategic foresight continues to drive success across every project. SVC remains a leader in the construction industry and a valued partner across the Southeast.
Our blueprint for success is delivering quality construction on time and on budget.
#51
Business: Manhas Design
DCP Leader: Pamela Manhas, BDES ’91 & Chiara Manhas, BDES ’21, MID ’22
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Years Honored: 2023, 2026
Established in 2003 by founder Pamela Manhas, Manhas Design is recognized as a leading interior design firm specializing in restaurant, hospitality and country club design. Over the past 22 years, we have designed over 300 restaurants and 15 country clubs. In contrast to design that subscribes to a signature style, our work reflects each individual project’s identity through design. From conceptual development through design documentation, the project’s uniqueness is developed and nurtured. This approach transcends stylistic trends and provides our clients with designs that are timeless yet innovative. We are committed to serving our clients with the finest service and personalized attention. From conception through completion, we are with you each step of the way. A successful project demands a great team. Our extensive experience in the commercial design industry has allowed us to establish a wealth of resources and an expert team of consultants.
#55
Business: Atlantic Pipe Service, LLC
DCP Leader: Keith Carson, BBC ’84
Location: Sanford, Fla.
Years Honored: 2026
Founded in 2017, Atlantic Pipe Services had a singular goal of becoming the turnkey solution for commercial pipeline inspection and rehabilitation services. Beginning as a humble operation with just a few staff and a handful of trucks, APS has grown to over 7 locations and a large commercial fleet to serve thousands of jobs throughout the Southeast each year. Our rapid growth can be attributed to our response times, modern technological solutions, understanding our clients’ needs, and dedication to supporting our internal teams.
#56
Business: J. Raymond Construction Corp.
DCP Leader: Jon Roemer, BSBC ‘98
Location: Longwood, Fla.
Years Honored: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2025, 2026
J. Raymond Construction Corp. is a full-service general contractor committed to treating its employees, customer and business partners the RIGHT WAY. In the past 35 years, JRCC has become one of the most recognizable construction companies in the Southeast delivering diverse facilities such as grocery stores, shopping centers, service centers, warehouse and pharmacy/distribution centers. Since its founding JRCC has remained committed to delivering work of the highest quality for a wide range of commercial and industrial clients.
#58
Business: The Dragon Group
DCP Leader: Randall Dragon, BSBC ’98
Location: Atlanta, Ga.
Years Honored: 2026
The Dragon Group (TDG) is a premier consulting firm at the forefront of Project Management and Sustainability Consulting for the Commercial Real Estate Industry, empowering clients to unlock real value while maximizing environmental impact. With hands-on expertise across every phase of the building lifecycle—from initial design to construction and final delivery, TDG delivers solutions that are efficient, cost-effective, and future-ready.
We thrive in collaborative, interdisciplinary environments, partnering seamlessly with building owners, developers, planners, architects, engineers, and contractors. By combining proven project management strategies with deep sustainability insight, TDG ensures every project is not only delivered on time and on budget but also greener, smarter, and built to last. Our work sits at the intersection of project management and sustainability consulting.
As trusted advisors, TDG brings extensive experience across healthcare, office, aviation, adaptive reuse, and innovation centers. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team has successfully delivered more than 5,000,000 square feet of projects, representing a total managed value exceeding $750 million. TDG doesn’t just manage projects; we transform visions into sustainable, high-impact realities.
#60
Business: Gast Construction Group
DCP Leader: Allen Gast, BSBC ’00
Location: West Palm Beach, Fla.
Years Honored: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2024, 2025, 2026
Gast Construction Group is a full-service Construction Management Firm located in West Palm Beach, Florida specializing in Commercial and Residential Construction in Palm Beach County, Florida.
#63
Business: Willis Smith Construction
DCP Leader: F. John LaCivita, BSBC ‘91
Location: Sarasota, Fla.
Years Honored: 2025, 2026
Founded in 1972 and headquartered in Sarasota, Florida, Willis Smith Construction, Inc. has been a pioneering force in Southwest Florida’s construction industry for over half a century. A significant factor behind this success is the educational foundation of our leadership—100 percent of the ownership has roots in the esteemed M.E. Rinker, Sr. School of Construction Management, which instilled the technical acumen and industry knowledge that has powered our growth and reputation as a trusted leader in the field. Known for our Landmark® projects, Willis Smith sets the standard for excellence and integrity. Our services span every stage of construction, from pre-construction planning and design to project close-out, with a customized approach that ensures each project aligns precisely with the client’s vision and requirements. Our comprehensive management framework focuses on delivering quality, efficiency, and adherence to schedule and budget. The firm’s success is driven by a team of highly skilled commercial builders, project managers, and specialists who bring collaboration, creativity, and integrity to each project. United by a commitment to top-tier results, our workforce delivers innovative, sustainable solutions that enhance project value while meeting the highest standards. At the heart of Willis Smith is our culture, which embraces our local community. We actively support organizations and initiatives that contribute to the social and economic vitality of Southwest Florida, reflecting our commitment to responsible corporate citizenship. As Willis Smith Construction grows, we continue to uphold our mission to promote excellence and integrity while contributing to the betterment of the clients which we serve.
#67
Business: Scorpio
DCP Leader: Domenic Scorpio, BDES ’94, MBC ‘98
Location: Gainesville, Fla.
Years Honored: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2025, 2026
Scorpio is a Commercial Construction Management firm started when Domenic and Holly Scorpio, along with a core group of dedicated construction professionals, decided to pursue their passion for building and their shared philosophy of community-centered construction. Together they dedicated their efforts to hiring outstanding talent, delivering exceptional quality, and keeping the experience of every partner at the center of their work.
At Scorpio, we understand people need buildings that frame their lives. Owners need return on investment. We deliver both through dedication to detail and holistic responsibility for your budget. And when you work with us, you are treated with care and respect – like family. We call this approach community-centered construction. Our team welcomes new ideas and unique obstacles. We are progressive and agile, embracing the need to evolve and master new tools, technologies, and processes to offer clients the best service and results for people who use our buildings. Through experience and hard lessons, we have cultivated a reputation for exceptional leadership across all aspects of construction.
Kindness, Integrity, Courage, Commitment, Excellence, and Responsibility are Scorpio’s six core values and the central tenants by which we conduct business and develop relationships. Our values are the scaffolding that drives our mission to build people, beautify cities, and bring exceptional buildings to life, for life.
No brick out of place. No building without purpose. No community without beauty. No city without abundant life.
#69
Business: Moraca Builders, Inc.
DCP Leader: Thomas Moraca, BSBC ’01
Location: Boca Raton, Fla.
Years Honored: 2026
Moraca Builders is a firm composed of highly qualified, seasoned professionals with a diverse portfolio of experience in both residential and commercial construction. We are committed to delivering the highest level of service at every phase of a project, guided by our deep experience, strong work ethic, and dedication to excellence.
With extensive technical expertise in construction—particularly in drywall and related trades—our team understands the importance of meticulous planning, open communication, and unwavering commitment. These core principles allow us to execute every project with precision, quality, and reliability.
#79
Business: DeAngelis Diamond
DCP Leader: John DeAngelis, BSBC ’91 & David Diamond, BBC ’85
Location: Naples, Fla.
Years Honored: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2026
DeAngelis Diamond is an innovative, award-winning national construction management firm specializing in commercial, multi-family, and healthcare construction with more than 29 years of experience across the United States. It’s one of America’s fastest-growing companies, according to Inc. 5000, and is listed on ENR’s Top 400 Contractors list annually. DeAngelis Diamond’s mission is to develop authentic relationships and have a positive influence on everyone they meet.
#85
Business: Walker Architects, Inc.
DCP Leader: Joseph Walker, BDES ’96, MARC ’98 & Timothy Williams, BDES ’99, MARC ’01 & Juli Mitchell MID ’06
Location: Gainesville, Fla.
Years Honored: 2015, 2016, 2019, 2020, 2026
At Walker Architects, we believe there is a better approach to design. Our founder, Joe Walker, began the firm in 2009 because he thought that clients would benefit by having an architectural partner who focused on putting people first by design.
Typically, the clients we serve have many changing needs and care about the use of their resources. We believe that agile spaces allow the people who occupy them to be more successful and give the building owner the best return on their investment.
Our refined process ensures not only a great collaboration experience but also enduring value: designs that meet the demands of today and tomorrow. Over the course of 15 years, we have grown to a 30+ person firm across three offices in Gainesville, Atlanta, and Tallahassee.
#92
Business: Ovation Construction
DCP Leader: Bert Karpinski, BDES ‘87, MBC ‘88
Location: Oviedo, Fla.
Years Honored: 2015, 2016, 2020, 2021, 2025, 2026
Ovation Construction is a full-service commercial construction company located in Central Florida that specializes in Municipal and Educational projects. Having completed hundreds of projects for high profile clients since inception in 2006, our mission is to provide outstanding customer services with attention to detail and quality.