Entrepreneur donates $2 million to area university

The gift from David Miga, owner and president of Electronic Design Specialists, will support USF’s College of Engineering.

By Business Observer Staff
| 10:55 a.m. December 9, 2020
| 2 Free Articles Remaining!

Courtesy. Engineering entrepreneur David Miga has gifted $2 million to the University of South Florida.

Tampa Bay-Lakeland

TAMPA — The University of South Florida has received a $2 million estate gift from David Miga, the founder, owner and president of Electronic Design Specialists, an Odessa-based engineering firm.

According to a press release, the funds will support USF College of Engineering students and faculty. Miga’s gift will establish the David Miga Endowed Scholarship for Electrical Engineering and create the David T. Miga Innovation Facility Fund.

“As a successful entrepreneur, David Miga understands the power of innovation and discovery,” USF President Steve Currall states in the release. “His generous bequest will help the University of South Florida support its commitment to nurture the next generation of innovators as they explore their passions and interests.”

Miga, a self-taught engineer, founded EDS in 1981. According to the release, he and his team have developed a wide range of influential products, including a wireless auto security system, digital ribbon tachometer and automobile engine control computer.

“I want to reinvigorate the American spirit of innovation and invention by helping to provide engineers the access and opportunity they need to excel and, thus, propel our country forward,” Miga states in the release. “I hope my endowment to USF will help accomplish this goal and maybe even inspire others.”