Launched in 2004, the garage-based start-up, Star2Star Communications, developed its own software and technology to provide telephone communications solutions to businesses using Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP).

Star2Star labels itself as the only telecommunications solution that integrates end-to-end monitoring and management by controlling both ends of the call path.

In 2008, Star2Star moved from their downtown Sarasota office to a larger location in Manatee County; and by 2009 the company set up a national dealer organization to serve clients nationwide. The company currently has a total of 36 employees.

"Our South Manatee County location allows us to draw employees from Port Charlotte to Tampa Bay," says Norm Worthington, chief executive officer for Star2Star.

In an effort to maintain and grow good jobs in Manatee County, the Manatee County Government approved an $80,000 incentive grant for Star2Star Communications. Star2Star plans to create 80 communications technology jobs over the next five years and as part of the grant requirements, the average annual wage for these jobs will be higher than the county average wage of $33,582.