When Maggie Mariucci started working at Florida Polytechnic University before it’s official opening, she knew it must connect with the community. It was important to her that Florida Poly, the state’s only all-STEM university, become part of the region’s economic landscape. “We joined the CFDC as a university in 2013 when we were working on […]
Pete Frantzis has served as the Chair for CFDC’s Investor Relations Committee for many years now. He has impacted positive change during his time. As he now cycles out of this leadership role, he leaves behind a great legacy, and takes with him memories and relationships to cherish. Frantzis answered quickly when asked what he’s […]
The Central Florida Development Council awarded its two highest honors at its Oct. 23 Annual Meeting. Camp Margaritaville was presented with the George W. Harris Jr. Economic Development Award for Success in Large Business, and Straughn Trout Architects with the Jim Brantley Economic Development Award – Success in Small Business. “These companies, along with all […]
Gene Conrad has served in various leadership roles with the Central Florida Development Council for 6 years now. He led the CFDC Board as the 2023|2024 Chair this past year. Conrad’s impeccable leadership and commitment to the organization is more than deserving of celebration and recognition. In his time with the CFDC, Conrad has helped […]
While dealing with the fallout and damage from Hurricane Milton, it’s important to be aware of the multitudes of resources that are currently available to Florida residents and business owners in need. Hurricane Milton Business Recovery Resources Business response resources are now available for Florida companies. The resources outlined below focus on state and federal […]
As Polk Vision turns 20, its leaders realized it was time that the vision for the future be updated. They spent many months seeking input from stakeholders and the community at large. Now, the Vision Refresh is rolling out, with an updated path forward. For 20 years Polk Vision has monitored “local conditions, identifying and […]
Polk County’s history is steeped in agriculture and phosphate, but its future is rooted in the growing sector of high-tech manufacturing, an industry whose influence and strong presence is well known here. National Manufacturing Day is Oct. 4- and October is celebrated as Manufacturing Month. During this time, the Manufacturing Institute showcases the “reality and […]
Two investors in the Central Florida Development Council- Cyndeo Wealth Partners and Florida Southern College- upgraded to the Visionary level this past year. Visionary status is the highest level of investment in CFDC. CFDC Investors at all levels have a voice in shaping economic strategy for Polk County and the Central Florida region. They all work […]
Revenue from tourism and the resulting economic impact has almost doubled from 2019 to 2024 in Polk County. This is a welcome sign for the area and its attractions, downtowns, small businesses and more. Central Florida attracted more than 6.5M visitors in the past year, accruing $4.5B in economic impact. Mark Jackson, Director of Tourism […]
Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL) has passed Tampa International Airport in the state ranking for cargo flowing through 10 airports. It now sits at No. 3 behind Miami and Orlando international airports, respectively. Lakeland Linder International Airport Director Kris Hallstrand thinks the airport can pass Orlando within the next few years. It needs only 127 […]