Simona Faroni and Guido Tremolini Honored as the 2025 GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Distinguished Alumni Award
Gainesville, FL–February 13th, 2025– GrowFL is proud to announce Simona Faroni and Guido Tremolini, co-founders of G.S. Gelato, as the recipients of the 2025 GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Barbara Stankowski Distinguished Alumni Award. This prestigious award honors individuals who have previously been recognized as a GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch honoree for their continued entrepreneurial excellence, innovation, and creating a lasting impact in their community.
"Entrepreneurship is about vision, perseverance, and the ability to adapt," said Waymon Armstrong, the 2024 GrowFL Distinguished Alumni Award honoree. "Florida’s second-stage business leaders are driving innovation, creating jobs, and shaping the future of our economy. It’s an honor to support this award and recognize the incredible impact these companies are making." Waymon is also continuing to give back as the sponsor of this year’s award.
From Italian Dreams to American Success
Simona and Guido’s journey is a testament to perseverance and passion. Arriving in the U.S. from Italy in 1996 with a bold vision to introduce authentic Italian gelato to the American market, they overcame language barriers, regulatory challenges, and industry roadblocks. In 2018, their company, G.S. Gelato, was recognized as a GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch honoree, a milestone that celebrated their rapid growth and industry leadership. Since then, they have continued to push boundaries, expanding their business from $11 million to $35 million in revenue and growing their production facility to 70,000 square feet, with future plans for an additional 50,000-square-foot expansion.
“At G.S. Gelato, challenges are simply opportunities for innovation,” said Simona Faroni “Instead of focusing on problems, we focus on solutions. When you truly believe, you don’t need to see the entire staircase—you just have to take the first step.”
Her husband and business partner, Guido Tremolini, echoed the sentiment: “Take risks and dream big, because anything is possible. The world needs your boldness, not your hesitation. Growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and believing in what others think is impossible.”
A Legacy of Growth and Community Impact
Beyond business success, G.S. Gelato is deeply committed to giving back. The company supports schools, youth sports, local nonprofits, and organizations assisting the homeless and survivors of domestic violence. Their impact extends beyond the U.S., offering employment opportunities to international workers and fostering professional development.
Their influence in Florida's entrepreneurial landscape has not gone unnoticed. Nathan Sparks, CEcD, Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC, praised the Simona and Guido’s contributions:
“Simona and Guido truly epitomize the American Dream. Their success did not come without sacrifice and perseverance—but no matter the challenge, they never gave up. We are so thankful they chose to plant their roots in Okaloosa County nearly 30 years ago, and I can honestly say that our community is a better place today because of them.”
Recognizing Excellence
The GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Barbara Stankowski Distinguished Alumni Award is named in honor of Barbara Stankowski, a trailblazing entrepreneur and champion for second-stage businesses. This award recognizes business leaders who continue to inspire, innovate, and create lasting economic impact well beyond their initial recognition.
Simona and Guido will be officially honored at the 14th Annual GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Awards Gala at the Hard Rock Live in Orlando, FL on February 27, 2025, where Florida’s most promising second-stage companies will be celebrated. Their journey—from Italian dreamers to U.S. business leaders—serves as an inspiration for entrepreneurs across the state.
About GrowFL
GrowFL supports second-stage companies—those beyond the startup phase but not yet large corporations—by providing resources, mentorship, and recognition to fuel continued growth. The Florida Companies to Watch program shines a spotlight on these high-performing businesses, celebrating their success and contributions to the state’s economy.
For more information about GrowFL and the Florida Companies to Watch program, visit www.GrowFL.com.