The Florida Council of 100 reiterated today its commitment to business builders and entrepreneurs on behalf of the state of Florida. Following Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s comments about a “tariff” on New Yorkers moving to Texas, Florida’s business community welcomes talent, innovation, and investors from across the country.

Florida’s business and population growth continue to lead the nation, fueled by a pro-growth environment and a commitment to opportunity. Today, Florida is a leading destination for professionals across the U.S., with one of the fastest-growing economies in the United States.

Florida is a global leader in advanced manufacturing and technology, has a business-friendly regulatory structure, a 0% income tax, and the #1 ranked university system in the U.S. to support growing businesses with a pipeline of talent. The opportunities Florida offers are clear:

• Real GDP has been up 26.3% since 2019, the highest of any state and nearly double the national rate.

• More than 3 million new businesses have launched here since 2019, including over 634,000 in 2024 alone.

George LeMieux, Chair of The Florida Council of 100, said, “Florida’s business community isn’t in the business of turning people away. We’re in the business of building opportunity. If Texas doesn’t want hardworking Americans, we’ll gladly roll out the red carpet for them. Our state’s economic success comes from welcoming talent and investment, not punishing it.”

“Florida is building the strongest economy in the nation. While others talk about tariffs and threats, we’re focusing on results,” said Mike Simas, President and CEO of The Florida Council of 100.

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.