We're thrilled to announce that Don Wenner, Founder and CEO of DLP Capital, has been recognized among Ernst & Young's 2025 Florida Entrepreneurs of the Year. This prestigious honor celebrates business leaders who demonstrate exceptional achievements in growth, innovation, and impact, not just within their industries but in the lives of those they serve. Don’s recognition reflects his entrepreneurial excellence and commitment to using real estate for lasting positive change.
Guided by his life verse, “To whom much is given, much is required” (Luke 12:48), Don’s vision has always centered on making a meaningful difference, and over time, that vision has manifested into the growth story of DLP Capital. What began as a small real estate brokerage and home flipping business has become a vertically integrated real estate investment firm managing more than $5.25 billion in assets and financing the building of Thriving Communities nationwide. But his journey wasn’t defined by massive growth targets or rapid scaling alone; it began with a steadfast commitment to helping others, which has been a hallmark of Don’s leadership from day one.
Don's entrepreneurial spirit emerged early on with a donut-selling business in the elementary school. That drive carried through college, where he initially planned to become a financial advisor. His path changed, however, when a mentor from his door-to-door sales job introduced him to the world of real estate.
In 2006, Don launched his real estate business. What started as a career experiment quickly became a calling after his first sale. He helped a woman named Cynthia avoid eviction after her rent unexpectedly doubled after 22 years, finding her a home that fit her budget and accommodated her limited mobility. Don didn’t just sell her the house; he personally helped her move in when he found out she didn’t have anyone else to help. This first sale built a meaningful and lasting connection between Don and Cynthia that has profoundly shaped his approach to real estate. The experience also revealed a deeper purpose to his work: it was not just about completing transactions but transforming lives. This conviction remains one of the driving forces behind DLP Capital today.
In the years that followed, Don grew his business exponentially, launching private real estate investment funds, offering financing to real estate operators, opening a property management division, and more. During this period, he also relocated DLP’s headquarters from Bethlehem, PA, to St. Augustine, FL—marking a new chapter in the company’s growth story and setting the stage for the rapid expansion that would follow.
In 2020, amid the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, DLP achieved a long-standing milestone: surpassing $1 billion in assets under management. What was once a bold, audacious goal became a springboard for upward mobility, and in the two years that followed, DLP tripled that number. Today, that momentum continues, fueled by discipline, a clear sense of purpose, and a team of nearly 500 passionate professionals united by a drive to make a lasting impact.
Behind DLP’s sustained growth is more than just entrepreneurial ambition—it’s the result of a deliberate, scalable approach. Central to that approach is the Elite Execution System (EES), a proprietary framework Don developed to help businesses grow with precision. Built around structured rhythms, goal alignment, and clear accountability, EES has enabled DLP and many other organizations to maintain exceptional performance throughout every stage of growth. Don has written two best-selling books, Building an Elite Organization and Building an Elite Career, which center around this approach, and is currently writing a third book, titled Building an Extraordinary Organization.
The Florida Entrepreneur of the Year award recognizes more than just financial success. While years of revenue, profit, asset, and equity data are rigorously reviewed, the selection process also deeply considers each nominee’s investment approach, ownership structure, and the meaningful impact their business has on communities. Don distinguished himself not only through strong performance but also through his dedication to tackling the housing affordability crisis and delivering sustainable, attainable rental housing that empowers residents to grow and thrive.
Being named a 2025 Florida Entrepreneur of the Year marks a significant milestone in Don’s journey and in the continued growth of DLP Capital. It’s a powerful reflection of what’s possible when bold vision, disciplined execution, and extraordinary leadership are paired with an unwavering commitment to purpose, proving that positive financial outcomes and social impact can go hand in hand.
None of this would be possible without the incredible impact players throughout DLP Capital and support from the 3,500+ families who invest in DLP’s Funds, supporting us as we live out our calling to transform lives through the building of Thriving Communities. DLP has rewarded these investors with double-digit annual returns in each fund, with regular, consistent distributions and liquidity.
Please join us in congratulating Don on this well-deserved honor. We’re proud to be part of the story and energized for all that’s still to come.