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The South Florida Venture Tech Chronicle Blog goes beyond the headlines.
Here, founders, investors, and industry experts share their perspectives on emerging technologies, investment strategies, and the challenges shaping our innovation ecosystem.
Expect thought leadership, data-driven opinions, and long-form features that deepen understanding of where tech is headed next.
FIU Lands IonQ Quantum Computer, Bringing Advanced Quantum Computing to Miami
Florida International University is bringing advanced quantum computing directly to Miami through a new partnership with IonQ. The university plans to install a Superion 256 trapped-ion quantum computer on campus in late 2027, becoming the first Florida university to acquire a full-stack trapped-ion system. Researchers and students will use the technology to explore applications across energy, cybersecurity, healthcare, and other fields. The investment adds another major piece of infrastructure to South Florida’s rapidly developing quantum technology ecosystem.
From Wrenches to Software: Palm Beach State College Invests $5.2M in the Future of Automotive Technology
Palm Beach State College is investing $5.2 million in its automotive technology program at the Lake Worth campus. The investment combines $1.1 million in state funding with $4.1 million in federal funding to expand training in electric, hybrid, alternative-fuel, and diesel vehicle systems. A new 850-hour program is scheduled to launch in February 2027 with hands-on training in high-voltage systems, batteries, diagnostics, and advanced vehicle technology. The initiative reflects the growing intersection of skilled trades, software, electronics, and transportation technology.
West Pam Beach-Based Powerus Secures Air Force IDIQ Contract Worth Up to $90M
West Palm Beach-based Powerus has secured a U.S. Air Force contract with a ceiling of up to $90 million, expanding its role in autonomous defense technology. The company develops drones, counter-drone systems, sensors, software and other autonomous technologies for defense applications. Powerus is also pursuing a potential public-market transaction as it scales its portfolio. New strategic advisors with senior military and national security experience are further strengthening the company’s leadership. The developments add momentum to South Florida’s growing defense and autonomous technology ecosystem.
Cybersecurity Executive Sonu Shankar Joins Department of War as Principal Deputy CIO
Cybersecurity executive Sonu Shankar has been appointed Principal Deputy CIO of the U.S. Department of War. His move brings more than 15 years of cybersecurity, product and technology leadership experience into federal defense operations. Shankar previously held leadership roles at Phosphorus Cybersecurity, Cisco, Box and Arctic Wolf. His appointment comes as the Department expands its engagement with commercial technology companies and emerging innovators. The move also highlights the growing overlap between cybersecurity, AI and defense technology.
AFCEA South Florida Connects Government, Industry and the Next Generation of Tech Talent
AFCEA South Florida’s Operation Collaboration brought together professionals from government, military, cybersecurity, technology and private industry. The event also raised funds for the chapter’s STEM scholarship initiatives, connecting industry collaboration with investment in future talent. AFCEA South Florida supports students pursuing fields such as engineering, computer science and cybersecurity. The chapter is also expanding partnerships with schools and STEM organizations across the region. Its efforts highlight the importance of collaboration in developing South Florida’s future technology workforce.
Miami Beach’s Flamingo Raises $4.5M to Rethink How Businesses Run IT
Miami Beach-based Flamingo has raised $4.5 million in seed funding to transform how businesses manage IT and cybersecurity. Led by Vertex Ventures, the round brings the company’s total funding to $6.7 million. Flamingo’s OpenFrame platform combines open infrastructure with AI agents designed to automate IT tasks and resolve issues. The startup is initially targeting managed service providers and already has hundreds of MSPs participating in its beta. Its approach could reshape the economics and business model of managed IT services.
West Palm Beach-Based Ondas Rapidly Expands Global Autonomous and Defense Technology Platform
West Palm Beach-based Ondas is rapidly building a global defense technology platform through acquisitions, investments, and strategic leadership appointments. The company’s $33 million acquisition of Aran Defense adds manufacturing capabilities to its growing autonomous systems portfolio. Former Mossad Director David Barnea is also joining Ondas to lead its global defense strategy. Meanwhile, investments in companies such as FPF Defense and major military contracts are expanding Ondas’ footprint. The company’s growth is further positioning South Florida as an emerging hub for defense and autonomous technology.
FAU Lands VentureWell Grant to Build University-Wide Pipeline From Research to Startups
Florida Atlantic University is building a new pipeline to help turn research and intellectual property into startups and commercial opportunities. Supported by an $85,000 VentureWell grant, the initiative will initially focus on marine science, sustainability, clean energy, and engineering. The program aims to connect researchers, students, mentors, investors, and industry partners. FAU hopes the model will strengthen South Florida’s innovation ecosystem.
Why Palantir’s Latest Executive Hire Could Signal a Bigger Push Into AI-Powered Finance
Palantir Technologies has named former AIG CEO Peter Zaffino global head of financial services, strengthening its push into insurance, banking, asset management and private equity. The appointment also underscores South Florida’s growing role in AI and fintech, with Palantir now headquartered in Aventura.
AutoNation Turns to Starlink to Strengthen Connectivity Across Its Nationwide Dealership Network
Fort Lauderdale-based AutoNation has deployed Starlink connectivity across more than 70 dealerships nationwide. The satellite technology provides an additional layer of network resiliency for locations where traditional backup broadband is limited or unavailable. The deployment builds on AutoNation’s broader network modernization strategy using SD-WAN and cloud connectivity. The company is also evaluating additional Starlink applications for disaster recovery and future locations.
Miami-Based Healthtech Startup Eyecheq Strategically Partners with iCare for Advanced Eye Screening
Miami-based healthtech startup Eyecheq has partnered with iCare to expand access to automated eye screening and advanced diagnostic technology. The partnership combines Eyecheq’s self-service screening kiosks with iCare’s retinal imaging solutions to support earlier detection of eye conditions. The collaboration strengthens Eyecheq’s reach across healthcare and retail settings. It also highlights South Florida’s growing role as a healthtech and innovation hub.
Miami Cybersecurity Firm GigaNetworks Acquired by National IT Provider BlueAlly, Expanding National Security and Network Capabilities
Miami-based cybersecurity and enterprise IT firm GigaNetworks has been acquired by national IT provider BlueAlly. The deal brings nearly two decades of South Florida cybersecurity and networking expertise into BlueAlly’s growing national platform.