Fla. Stat. § 159.701
Research and development authorities, as authorized by ss. 159.701 - 159.7095, are created for the purpose of promoting scientific research and development in affiliation with and related to the research and development activities of one or more state-based, accredited, public or private institutions of higher education; for the purpose of financing and refinancing capital projects related to establishment of a research and development park in affiliation with one or more institutions of higher education, including facilities that complement or encourage the complete operation thereof as defined by, and in the manner provided by, the Florida Industrial Development Financing Act and by ss. 159.701 - 159.7095; and for the purpose of fostering the economic development and broadening the economic base of a county in affiliation with one or more institutions of higher education.
Fla. Stat. § 159.701