Florida has emerged from the pandemic as one of the most competitive economies in the world and a magnet for talent. Skilled workers and their families are relocating to Florida to take advantage of the plentiful job opportunities, high wage growth, affordability compared to other coastal economic hubs, and high quality of life. Moreover, a deeper look into the state economy reveals a sophisticated private sector composed of both small and large businesses and enabled by low taxes, light-touch regulation, and a free-market orientation.

Over the past few decades, Florida has blossomed into a conglomerate of unique regional urban and rural economies that are capitalizing on their respective industries to outcompete not only other states, but other countries as well. Clusters of jobs in higher-wage industries have emerged across the state in urban and rural regions with unique specializations—from financial and business services, IT & Tech, and Distribution & eCommerce to Aerospace & Defense, biotech, and manufacturing.

To harness the economic dynamism of Florida’s regional economies and ensure continued growth, the Florida Council of 100 has created a new economic development strategy centered around regional strengths and leveraging our world-class higher education system. We have formed an innovative platform for the regular convening of regional and rural economic development organizations to align common goals with the advancement of unique local initiatives. Underpinning this effort, over the last twelve months, in partnership with McKinsey & Company, the Florida Council of 100 has examined the state’s six regional and rural economies and identified the industries generating higher-wage and resilient jobs.

This data-driven work provides a framework for the new, globally attractive Florida. Florida is good for business. Florida is good for talent. Florida is good for investment. And most importantly, Florida is invested in your success. The Florida Council of 100 will continue to emphasize these key points as we convene the state economic development community, including private companies, economic development organizations, educational and training institutions, political leadership, and investors, to create high-value jobs and develop the talent across all systems to fill them.

Beyond Sunshine outlines our approach to business-driven economic development and serves as a roadmap for securing Florida’s economic success. The priorities are clear:

1. Increase the focus and promotion of high-priority economic clusters in each region.

2. Increase jobs in higher-wage industries and align talent at all levels to fill these roles.

3. Position Florida domestically and internationally as the best place to start a career, build wealth, and raise a family.

The time to plan for Florida’s future is now. We will build on our strengths, maintain and improve our quality of life, and win in the modern global economy.