
With a focus on high-skill, high-wage jobs along the critical Interstate 4 corridor in Central Florida, advanced manufacturers are finding their way to Polk County. And many more are inquiring about locating here. So far this year, the Central Florida Development Council has closed seven projects, four of which are manufacturing. In addition, advanced manufacturing […]

Polk County Newcomer Nucor Steel Florida and 34-year staple Springer Construction received the Central Florida Development Council’s most prestigious awards at its annual meeting on September 30. The county’s economic development agency also honored nine-year Florida Senator Kelli Stargel for her work promoting businesses in Central Florida. Springer Construction is the winner of the Jim […]

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to grip the world, affecting business and industry as much as health and welfare, economic resiliency is the term that defines Angela Garcia Falconetti’s year as chairwoman of the Central Florida Development Council board of directors. “When you look at how much has occurred and how many accomplishments have been […]
One company provides electricity to a large swath of Polk County, while another helps keep our residents healthy. Two others produce steel and provide planning and design services. All four contribute to the economic success of Polk County, employing hundreds, paying taxes and giving back. On Sept. 30, the Central Florida Development Council will award […]

Small businesses are the backbone of America, largely run by involved owners who care for their employees, who in turn give their best every day. It’s those companies that survived, and some even thrived, during the coronavirus pandemic. Three such companies will be honored on September 30 as finalists for the Central Florida Development Council’s […]

As Polk County continues to grow, having adequate health care for our 725,000+ residents is critical to attracting and retaining businesses. Five hospitals are located in the county, along with numerous large health care providers like Central Florida Health Care and clinics like Watson and Bond. But they aren’t resting on their laurels. Following are […]

Preliminary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for June 2021 shows 331,000 people are in the labor force and 309,000 people are employed, both the highest on record. About 22,000 people are without jobs. The county’s job market has increased about 3% over the last year, and it’s predicted to increase 42.5% in the […]

At a time when Polk County is celebrating its highest level of employment and a low unemployment rate, CareerSource Polk honored awardees for their role in contributing to workforce and economic development initiatives. CareerSource Polk, a non-profit workforce development board, honored several champions of economic prosperity during their Best Places to Work event. Included as […]

Margaritaville is coming to Polk County, as Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins joining the Cabana Club RV Resort in Auburndale through a rebrand coming in early 2022. The addition of the notable Margaritaville brand will continue providing locals and cross-country travelers a way to unwind and enjoy a laid-back lifestyle in a high-class, […]

Four Polk County business people have been recognized for their accomplishments and leadership skills at a young age — all are under 40. Appearing on the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list are: Michelle Netwal, executive vice president and chief financial officer (CFO) at Bank of Central Florida. Chris Chambers, Security & Emergency […]