The Florida Council of 100 Q1 2026 CEO Economic Outlook Index

Florida’s leading CEOs are signaling continued confidence in the state’s economic trajectory, with capital investment expectations reaching their highest level since The Florida Council of 100 launched its CEO Economic Outlook Index.

The quarterly survey reflects the forward-looking perspectives of more than 100 CEOs representing some of Florida’s largest employers, offering an early signal of business sentiment across the state.

According to the Council’s Q1 2026 CEO Economic Outlook Index, Florida’s overall index measured 98, remaining well above the national index score of 89. The index tracks CEO expectations for sales, capital investment, and employment over the next six months.

The most notable finding this quarter is the continued strength in capital investment. Florida’s capital expenditure (capex) subindex rose from 88 to 91, the highest level recorded since the Council began tracking the index, signaling that companies are continuing to invest in expansion, infrastructure, and innovation.

“Florida CEOs are betting on the state’s future through continued investment and expansion,” said George LeMieux, Chair of the Florida Council of 100. “That confidence reflects the strength of Florida’s business environment and long-term economic outlook.”

While expectations for sales and employment softened modestly this quarter, Florida CEOs continue to demonstrate a resilient outlook amid broader economic uncertainty.

Florida’s employment subindex registered at 95, significantly outpacing the national score of 50, indicating continued confidence in hiring among the state’s top employers.

“What we’re seeing is alignment among Florida’s leading CEOs around continued investment and growth,” said Mike Simas, President and CEO of the Florida Council of 100. “When that many business leaders are moving in the same direction, it’s a strong signal about where the economy is heading.”

The findings reinforce Florida’s position as a national destination for companies looking to invest, scale, and grow.

The Florida Council of 100 brings together the state’s top business leaders to align around the policies, investments, and strategies shaping Florida’s long-term economic growth. The Council’s CEO Economic Outlook Index captures real-time insight from its members, reflecting the decisions and priorities of leaders actively shaping the state’s economy.

The Q1 2026 survey was conducted from March 11 through March 18, 2026, and included responses from 111 Florida CEOs across major industries statewide.

The next Florida Council of 100 CEO Economic Outlook Index will be released in June 2026.

About The Florida Council of 100 and The Florida Council of 100 Foundation
The Florida Council of 100 is a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization of business leaders dedicated to improving Florida’s quality of life and economic well-being. Founded in 1961 at the request of Governor Farris Bryant, the Council serves as a trusted advisor to Florida’s elected officials and policymakers. Its membership represents over 200 companies employing more than 1.3 million Floridians, collectively shaping the state’s future through business-driven policy solutions and direct economic impact initiatives. The Florida Council of 100 Foundation is the Council’s nonprofit affiliate, focused on research, education, and strategic initiatives that support long-term economic growth and prosperity across Florida. The Foundation plays a key role in identifying opportunities, funding forward-thinking programs, and driving collaborative partnerships to strengthen Florida’s talent pipeline and innovation economy. For more information about The Florida Council of 100, visit www.fc100.org.

Media Contact: Amber Statler, (954) 649-9840, amber@mcnicholas.biz