News

Focus on Manufacturing Shows its Importance

October 6, 2021 News

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 […]

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Nucor Steel & Springer Construction Receive CFDC Business Awards

October 5, 2021 News

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 […]

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Polk State President Leaves CFDC a Legacy of Assisting with Business Resiliency

September 29, 2021 News

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 […]

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Four Companies are Finalists for the CFDC’s Harris Award

September 28, 2021 News

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 […]

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Three Companies that Focus on Relationships and Giving Back are Finalists for Business Award

September 27, 2021 News

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 […]

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Polk County Hospitals Continue to Grow

September 21, 2021 News

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 […]

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Polk County Hits Record Highs in Labor Force

September 20, 2021 News

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 […]

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CFDC Among Honorees for Extraordinary Work During Pandemic

September 17, 2021 News

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 […]

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Margaritaville Enters Polk Market, Partnering with Cabana Club

September 17, 2021 News

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, […]

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Four Local People on TBBJ 40 Under 40 Lists

September 13, 2021 News

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 […]

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