Florida: News

Governor Rick Scott today announced that Florida’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped to 8.1 percent for the month of November – down 0.4 percentage points from last month and the lowest since November 2008. This was the largest drop in the rate over the month since October 1992, and was the second time it occurred this year. (Read More)

A world-leading provider of aerostructure fabrication and assembly and aircraft modification, L-3 Crestview Aerospace will create 340 jobs through the expansion of their aircraft manufacturing operations in Okaloosa County. The project also marks an investment of more than $13.7 million, which will include upgrades at Bob Sikes Airport. (Read More)

National defense intelligence company CLI Solutions plans to expand their Tampa operations, creating up to 40 jobs and $3.4 million in capital investment with the construction of a new headquarters facility in 2013. The positions will include translators, linguists, analysts and engineers. (Read More)

Compared to 2011, the number of competitive economic development projects increased by 23 percent, with new jobs from competitive projects totaling 25,144- 30.4 percent higher than last year’s total. In addition, companies committed to more than $1.7 billion in capital expenditures this year, a 32 percent increase over 2011. (Read More)

Contact: media@eog.myflorida.com 

(850) 717-9282

Governor Scott Announces

2012 Innovators in Business Award Winners

TALLAHASSEE, FL – The winners of the 2012 Governor's Innovators in Business Awards were announced today by Governor Rick Scott. The winners will be honored this evening during a reception at the Governor's Mansion.

Governor Scott said, "I am proud to announce another group of award winners. My number one mission is to grow jobs for Florida families, and the successes these companies have experienced represent the job opportunities being created in Florida."

The awards recognize outstanding contributions toward improving and diversifying Florida's economy plus distinctive community investment efforts, particularly relating to industries targeted for economic development and high wage job growth. Enterprise Florida coordinates this annual program, formerly the Governor's Business Diversification Awards, now in its 29th year.
 

Each winner represents one of the following markets:

Mid Market: County population up to 150,000

Major Market: County population 150,001 to 800,000

Mega Market: County population 800,001 and higher

The Award winners for each category are as follows:

 • Governor's Business Expansion Award: For Florida companies that expanded their operations in 2011, investing capital and creating jobs for Floridians.

 • Mid Market: Galaxy Home Solutions, Inc. (Sumter County)

 • Major Market: Embraer Executive Aircraft Inc. (Brevard County)

 • Mega Market: JPMorgan Chase & Co. (Orange County) 

• Governor's Newcomer Award: For new-to-Florida companies that began business operations in 2011.

 • Mid Market: ALM Technologies Inc (Nassau County)

 • Major Market: AAR Airlift Group, Inc. (Brevard County)

 • Mega Market (tie): Prime Therapeutics (Orange County)

 • Mega Market (tie): Time Warner Business Services LLC (Hillsborough County)

 • Governor's Export Excellence Award: For Florida companies with new or significant increases in documented export sales in 2011.

 • Mid Market: Girard Equipment, Inc. (Indian River County)

 • Major Market: AppRiver (Santa Rosa County)

 • Mega Market: Q4 Services LLC (Orange County)

• Governor's Innovation & Entrepreneurship Award: For Florida start-up companies (less than five years old or with a product less than three years old) that have set a standard for entrepreneurship and creativity.

 • Mid Market: B4C Technologies, LLC (Martin County)

 • Major Market: LearnSomething Inc. (Leon County)

 • Mega Market: Flagship Solutions Group (Palm Beach County)

• Governor's Innovators Under 40 Award: New this year, this award recognizes Florida residents under 40 who own or lead a Florida company with annual revenue of $1M or more and who have created at least 10 jobs since January 2011. This category is well-represented in its inaugural year.

 • 3Cinteractive, Mike FitzGibbon, co-founder and president (Palm Beach County)

 • City Advertising, Darren Cleveland, president and CEO (Palm Beach County)

 • Cybis Communications, Jeff Douglass, founder and CEO (Orange County)

 • Datum Corporation, Tom Frost, CEO (Sarasota County)

 • Envy Labs, Gregg Pollack, CEO and founder (Orange County)

 • Hewes & Company, LLC, Allan Bell, partner (Escambia County)

 • Modernizing Medicine, Daniel Cane, CEO and co-founder (Palm Beach County)

 • ndtArtemis, Travis Proctor, CEO (Brevard County)

 • RP Funding, Inc., Robert Palmer, president (Orange County)

 • Utilipath, LLC, Lindon Hayes, founder and managing member (Duval County)

 • Voalté, Trey Lauderdale, chief innovation officer (Sarasota County)

Companies that have been denoted as the top job producers in the state of Florida will also be recognized at tonight's event. These organizations represent various industries, including information technology, life sciences, agriculture and hospitality. The top job producers come from all regions of the state, including Miami, Panama City, Naples and Jacksonville.

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The 2012 Governor's Innovators in Business Awards program is co-sponsored by Bank of America andFlorida Trend magazine. For more information about the awards, click here.

 

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Enterprise Florida, Inc. (www.eflorida.com) is a partnership between Florida's business and government leaders and is the principal economic development organization for the state of Florida. Headquartered in Orlando, Enterprise Florida's mission is to facilitate job growth for Florida's businesses and citizens leading to a vibrant statewide economy. In pursuit of its mission, Enterprise Florida works closely with a statewide network of economic development partners and is funded both by the State of Florida and by private-sector businesses.

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Governor Rick Scott announced that The ADT Corporation, a provider of electronic security, interactive home and business automation and alarm monitoring services, will bring 120 new jobs over the next two years to its corporate headquarters in Boca Raton. These new jobs will add to the nearly 700 ADT employees already based in South Florida. (Read More)

Governor Rick Scott was joined by Frederico Curado, President & CEO of Embraer S.A., and Gary Spulak, President, Embraer Aircraft Holding, Inc. to break ground on Embraer’s new Engineering and Technology Center, which will bring 200 jobs and a $50 million capital investment to the are over the next five years. (Read More)

The University of Florida’s Research and Academic Center at Lake Nona, a 106,000-square-foot, $53 million facility, will house the College of Pharmacy, the College of Medicine, the Center for Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology, the Institute for Therapeutic Innovation, Institute on Aging and Clinical and Translational Science Building. (Read More)

The Miami-Dade County Commission has approved a $313 million contract for 136 new MetroRail cars to be built by Italian manufacturer AnsaldoBreda. The company has agreed to build a local assembly plant in the Miami area that is expected to create around 100 permanent jobs, plus more temporary jobs. (Read More)

To meet patient needs, Florida Hospital officials are investing $53 million to expand the 475-bed hospital, add state-of-the-art medical equipment and create 275 full- and part-time jobs within a year. Formerly known as University Community Hospital, Florida Hospital Tampa hospital is expected to complete all interior and exterior improvements by spring 2014. (Read More)

SB Mfg., LLC chose to establish its operations in Pasco County and hire 75 people at average annual wages of $40,000 by 2015 after evaluating locations in Kentucky and Ohio. The company will produce aluminium castings for the automotive parts industry using high quality recycled aluminium from local sources. (Read More)

Aerospace industry leader Pratt & Whitney will expand its manufacturing capabilities at its West Palm Beach facility creating 230 new jobs and a capital investment of $63 million. Gov. Rick Scott and United Technologies Corp. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Louis Chênevert made the announcement at Pratt & Whitney’s West Palm Beach facility. (Read More)

Alachua based biotechnology company Applied Genetic Technologies Corporation has secured $37.5 million in a Series B round of financing. AGTC will use financing, led by Alta Partners and S.R. One, to fund studies for the treatments of rare human diseases. (Read More)

Contact: GOVERNOR’S PRESS OFFICE

(850) 717-9282

media@eog.myflorida.com

Governor Scott to Embark on Trade Mission to Colombia
 
Florida’s overseas trade missions position Florida as a global hub for business and creates jobs for Florida’s families

 
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – On December 2, Governor Scott will lead a trade mission to Bogotá, Colombia with more than 190 participants representing 116 Florida companies, statewide organizations and higher educational institutions to promote economic development opportunities in the Sunshine State.  Colombia is Florida’s second largest trading partner, with more than $9 billion in bilateral trade.  Florida also accounts for one-fourth of the total U.S. trade with Colombia, and 37 percent of U.S. exports to Colombia move through Florida.

Enterprise Florida (EFI) has organized this trade mission and six other international business development missions Governor Scott has led since taking office.  Previously, Governor Scott has led missions to Panama, Canada, Brazil, Israel, Spain and the United Kingdom.

The goal of these international missions is twofold.  First, they introduce Florida’s businesses, elected officials and community leaders firsthand to global business opportunities through introductions to prospective clients and markets that provide exporting potential for their local companies.  Second, the missions aim to attract job-creating foreign direct investment into the state.  These have been core activities for EFI since the late 1990s, soon after the public-private partnership was created to serve as the state’s lead economic development organization. 

EFI, along with Governor Scott, promotes Florida as a global business destination through its Florida Export Sales Missions.  These “matchmaking missions,” organized with support from the U.S. Commercial Service, allow Florida businesses to meet one-to-one with foreign companies to discuss economic development and business opportunities. The nations targeted tend to be those that are major trade partners with Florida.  Enterprise Florida facilitates affordable travel packages to enable businesses to meet prospective international clients.  In addition, Governor Scott has led business development missions with EFI to promote economic development activities in targeted industries that are important to Florida’s economy.

Governor Scott said, “Florida is perfectly positioned to be a global hub for business.  We are committed to growing our relationship across the world in order to create jobs for Florida’s families, and that is why the missions we embark on with EFI are vital to Florida’s economic success.  These missions help us attract new industries and businesses to Florida and further cement our standing as one of the nation’s top trading states.  I look forward to visiting Colombia and with the recent ratification of the Free Trade Agreements, I am convinced that Florida and Colombia’s growing relationship will expand even more.”

Manny Mencía, senior vice president of Enterprise Florida’s International Trade Division, said, “A major goal of these missions is to help increase our state’s exports, which leads to more jobs, by paving the way to greater sales opportunities for Florida companies.  Companies that export, grow faster and are more profitable than companies that do not – and it is clear that we must make this a top priority in Florida.”

Florida Secretary of Commerce and Enterprise Florida President & CEO Gray Swoope notes that “international trade and foreign investment combined are responsible for more than 1.4 million Florida jobs, or about 17.3 percent of the state’s employment.  Florida benefits greatly from a Governor who understands global trade’s effect on job creation and economic prosperity.  When Governor Scott leads these missions, they not only generate a higher level of participation and results, but also attract a higher level of attention and enhance Florida’s business image in the host country.  We applaud him for being a champion of our efforts to expand Florida’s international trade and business development.”

A Record of Success: International missions have been very successful for Florida, providing a notable return on the state’s investment into these business development activities and long-range jobs-producing opportunities.

 

Governor’s Business Development Mission to Panama

Panama City

March 17-18, 2011

The objective of this mission was to assess the opportunities from the Panama Canal Expansion.The delegation -- six Florida port directors, business leaders and executives from the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Florida Association of Manufacturers and Associated Industries of Florida – enhanced Florida’s economic relationship with Panama through strengthened ties between state leaders and the Republic of Panama and Florida seaports with the Panama Canal Authority.

Governor’s Business Development Mission to Canada

Montreal and Toronto

June 6-10, 2011

 The objective of this mission was to promote investment into Florida.

Governor Scott and Florida economic development organizations participated in 155 FDI (foreign direct investment) (FDI) recruitment meetings.

Governor Scott announced the Canadian security company Garda will relocate its U.S. headquarters to Boca Raton Florida, creating 100 professional jobs, which has been exceeded.

Team Florida Trade and Business Development Mission to Brazil

São Paulo and São Jose dos Campos, Brazil

October 22-27, 2011

The objective of this mission was to provide Florida companies with an opportunity to increase sales of their products and services.

51 Florida companies participated in a two-day Florida expo and matchmaking event with Brazilian businesses. The Florida companies reported more than $96,684,500 in actual and expected future sales.

· Governor Scott announced that Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer will invest $50 million to establish new manufacturing facilities at Melbourne Airport.  The project is slated to produce more than 200 jobs over five years. 

Governor’s Business Development Mission to Israel

Tel Aviv, Beersheva and Jerusalem

December 8-15, 2011

The objective of this mission was to promote investment into Florida and promote Florida as a platform for Israeli companies into the U.S., Latin American and Caribbean market. The Governor met with potential Israeli investors, delivered presentations on Florida business climate to Israeli business organizations and was a speaker in the GLOBES Conference.  (GLOBES is the leading financial newspaper in Israel.)

Governor Scott met with six Israeli companies that are investment or expansion prospects for Florida and spoke at the seminar “Florida:  Platform for Israeli Companies Doing Business in Latin America and the Caribbean,” the audience for which included 45 Israeli business executives representing SMEs with an interest in penetrating the Latin American market. 

Governor’s Business Development Mission to Spain

May 21-24, 2012

 The objective of this mission was to promote Spanish investment into Florida.

· Included nine events and 13 meetings with potential investment projects.  Governor Scott met Spanish companies interested in investing in Florida and delivered presentations on Florida business climate to several Spanish business organizations.

· The following companies based in Spain will add 465 jobs within three years in Miami-Dade County:

 o   Obrascon Huarte Lain (OHL USA), one of the world's largest global construction companies is expanding its presence in the U.S. market by adding a new U.S. South Region headquarters in Northwest Miami-Dade County.  Specializing in civil engineering, healthcare and university projects, OHL's new location will add 255 direct jobs within three years and $22 million in capital investment.

 o   Miami City Tour (formerly El Grupo Julià), a travel and tourism transportation company will open its first U.S. location in Miami Beach, adding 150 new direct jobs within three years and $4 million in capital investment.

 o   TotalBank, a leading integrated retail-commercial bank in South Florida and a member of Grupo Banco Popular Español will further expand in Miami-Dade County, adding 10 new branches with 60 direct jobs within three years and $4 million in capital investment. TotalBank is already a leading integrated retail commercial bank in South Florida with more than $2.3 billion in assets and 19 convenient locations throughout Miami-Dade County.

 o   BBVA, a Spain-based retail bank that entered the Florida marketplace through acquiring Compass bank, has 45 full-service branches in the Jacksonville area along with loan production offices in Orlando and Miami.  This bank is expanding in the Miami market by offering domestic private banking and wealth management services.  BBVA will add 45 jobs at an average wage of $60,000 annually.

Team Florida Business Development Mission to United Kingdom

London and Farnborough, England

July 7-12, 2012

The goal of this mission was to promote worldwide investment into Florida and further develop the state’s aviation cluster through access to the aviation and aerospace companies attending the biannual Farnborough Airshow.

Governor Scott and EFI recruitment staff met with more than 40 major aviation and seven Aerospace companies with investment potential in Florida.

Tradeshow participants reported $41 million in combined actual and expected export sales for the next 24 months and 250 sales leads.

Following this mission, Governor Scott announced that Pratt & Whitney will create 230 new jobs at an average wage of $81,000 as part of its efforts to establish jet engine manufacturing and test operations in Palm Beach County. 

Many businesses also participate in multiple international missions because they provide incredible value and return for Florida’s companies.  Below are recent success stories for Florida:

Magna-Bon International LLC

Okeechobee-based Magna-Bon International LLC participated in the October, 2011 Brazil Trade Mission and will embark to Colombia next week. Magna - Bon produces and distributes agricultural products for algae and bacteria control.  Magna-Bon owner Joel Agler says being affiliated with the missions Governor Scott leads brings credibility to his company when promoting and selling in overseas markets.  For example, Magna-Bon is EPA-approved in the United States, which benefits the company domestically.  Other nations may recognize that standard but also place higher value on a business prospect when it has alliances or support from its government.

“It’s helpful to have government on your side,” Agler said.  “It’s important to say we’re with Team Florida.”  Agler’s 14 preset appointments in Brazil with “high quality people,” he describes, bore fruit in several ways, one of which being an import permit that now allows his products to be shipped into Brazil. 

“I learned a lot in Brazil, but Colombia will be better because of the Free Trade Agreement,” Agler said.  He mentioned that he became interested in participating after hearing Governor Scott speak about the benefits of participating in these missions.  “And the fact that the governor is going is a win situation for us,” Agler said. 

Sunshine Industries

Mita Burke, CEO of the family-owned, multinational Sunshine Industries in Coral Gables, said “The introductions, exposure and results we’ve gotten have been over the top.  Since our participation in the mission to Brazil last year, we are exporting there consistently and successfully.  It has really been very fruitful for us,” Burke said.  “The introductions we were able to make during the mission have us very excited about the possibilities and the future is looking good.  The companies we met with were all very receptive to our products. It’s a shame more people don’t pay attention to these types of services provided by Enterprise Florida.”

yNs Med Spa, Inc

The Brazil mission made a difference for the Naples company yNs Med Spa, Inc., which specializes in skin care products.  CEO Ann Breusch said her company was able to collaborate with a large firm that will distribute its skincare products to dermatologists. 

“This is a game changer for our company.  Just the partnership with Brazil will result in hiring five more employees.  I cannot emphasize enough the importance of the Gold Key service for small businesses to help sell USA made products globally,” Breusch said. 

Businesses may qualify for these grants, which reduce the cost of participating in a trade mission.   For the Florida mission, a trade expo and gold key package cost $1,200, but SMEs could qualify to pay only $500.  “Without the Gold Key grant given to small businesses, we would not have been able to expand our international business especially during the current economic situation.”

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Chancellor John R. Watret, Ph.D. acknowledges the university’s longstanding partnership with Enterprise Florida, which he says has opened doors to business opportunities worldwide.  Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide Campus provides educational opportunities for aspiring professionals in the aviation and aerospace industry through an expanding global network of campuses and technology enhanced learning. 

“Of particular importance to Embry-Riddle has been expansion in emerging aviation economies,” Watret emphasizes.  “Enterprise Florida’s support and mentorship was integral in the successful opening of a new subsidiary, Embry-Riddle Asia, headquartered in Singapore.   EFI events and missions have created valuable connections with foreign governments, industry and individual customers in Europe, Asia, South America and the Middle East that will continue to enhance the university’s international brand and serve its mission of teaching the science, practice and business of aviation and aerospace around the world.”

City of Tampa

Representatives from Florida’s communities are regular mission-goers in their quest to scope new opportunities for helping their city, county or region grow and prosper.

"The trip to Colombia is an opportunity to tell our story and make the case to businesses abroad that Tampa is the best place to live, work, and play.  I will market what we have to offer – Florida’s largest port, a world-class airport, and incredible economic potential,” said Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn.

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Governor Rick Scott and Harris Corporation President and CEO William Brown joined other state and local dignitaries today for a groundbreaking ceremony signaling the beginning of construction of the new $100 million Harris Technology Center on the company’s Palm Bay, Florida campus. The center is expected to be completed in late 2014. (Read More)

Florida’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate declined to 8.5 percent for the month of October, the lowest since December 2008. Since December 2010, the state’s unemployment rate has dropped 2.6 percentage points and 174,500 private sector jobs have been created. (Read More)

Nearly 22 million visitors came to Florida in the third quarter of 2012 (July-September), an increase of 3.5 percent over the same period in 2011. Direct travel-related employment in Florida also rose 1.5 percent over third quarter 2011 to 1,020,200, an addition of 15,000 jobs since this time last year. (Read More)

Last week, Governor Rick Scott toured Navy Federal Credit Union’s Brian L. McDonnell Center Campus, where 2,700 of the company’s employees are based. At a press conference following the tour, he highlighted Navy Federal’s ongoing expansion that will result in 700 new jobs and a $6.75 million investment into the area. (Read More)

ECI’s expansion involves a capital investment of approximately $1 million and the hiring of approximately 20 new employees over the next three years, with an average salary of $48,690. ECI Pharmaceuticals, LLC, is a specialty pharmaceutical manufacturer of solid dose drug products. (Read More)

Job reductions in Florida significantly declined in October, as cuts nationwide reached its highest level in five months. Florida employers announced 645 cuts in October, significantly down from 1,818 in September. (Read More)

Lakeland captured the No. 4 spot on CNN Money’s rankings of the most affordable city for home buying. According to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index, housing markets making the list offer the best combination of low prices and competitive wages. (Read More)

Entertainment Metals’ new HQ in Fort Myers will result in the creation of new jobs and a total project economic impact for Lee County of more than one million dollars in the next four years. Entertainment Metals operates a high-tech production facility with manufacturing capabilities span a broad range of industries. (Read More)

Florida has 176,727 veteran-owned businesses with revenue of $61.9 billion, ranking it third in the nation according to a report from U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy. Of these, 35,548 provide jobs for 310,154 people with an annual payroll of $10.6 billion. (Read More)

Florida captured the No. 10 spot in Site Selection magazine’s annual business climate rankings. Florida also tied for No. 6 in the publication’s Executive Survey Business Climate Rankings 2012. (Read More)

Nuance Communications, a Burlington, Mass.-based technology company specializing in voice and language solutions will expand its operations in Melbourne, creating 115 jobs. At full employment, Nuance Communications’ total projected economic impact will rise by 66 percent to nearly $24.4 million. (Read More)

With 7,752 openings, Florida's High Tech Corridor, a 23-county region, ranked as the fourth-largest tech hub, based on the number of technology-focused jobs posted online from January to August 2012. (Read More)

On January 2 Biologics Development Services will open a scientific laboratory in Tampa, which will create up to 15 new jobs and $1.2 million in capital investment. The facility will be equipped with the latest in instrumentation, robotics and staffed by a highly skilled team of scientists and technicians. (Read More)

Harris Corp. has received a $10.8 million order from the U.S. Air Force for Falcon III multiband manpack tactical radios. The radios will be used by combat controllers and other ground personnel and provide enhanced capabilities for interoperable voice and data communications. (Read More)

Work is underway on the new Strategic Weapons System Ashore facility at Cape Canaveral. Space Florida and Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast anticipate 100 jobs with wages averaging $90,000 annually may be created within three years as a result of the project. The new missile test complex will provide the Navy with a single, land-based facility for testing submarine missile systems. (Read More)

The Orlando training-simulation division landed the $114 million contract to upgrade combat-training simulators for the Army and to produce new systems for the Marine Corps. Under the five-year deal, the division will also develop and install 13 upgraded technologies for the Close Combat Tactical Trainer system and deliver new combat-training systems to the Marine Corps in North Carolina. (Read More)

Florida exporters sent $5.68 billion worth of goods to international markets in August, up 7.1 percent from $5.31 billion in July. On an annual basis, August’s numbers indicate that exporters posted gains due to international demand for goods made in Florida. In August, Florida exporters sold $155.9 million, or 2.8 percent, more goods than in August of last year. (Read More)

Florida continues to lead the nation in the largest drop in its unemployment rate since December 2010 at 2.4 percent. Florida’s unemployment rate has now declined over the year for 22 consecutive months. (Read More)

A $20M grant from the National Institutes of Health will help UM establish the Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute that will bring the benefits of research to marginalized communities that are often last to see the benefits of new products and procedures. With this grant, UM joins a prestigious consortium across the nation that now includes 60 institutions dedicated to bringing cutting-edge developments to the frontlines of healthcare. (Read More)

SC, a shipping line specializing in automobile cargo, is calling on Jacksonville with a ship that can carry up to 3,000 automobiles. SC will make stops twice a month at the Talleyrand terminal to load new GM vehicles along with used heavy equipment. (Read More)

Lake Nona a master-planned community in southeast Orlando, earned this distinction from Cisco for its networking technologies and digital infrastructure plans and initiatives. Cisco will work with Lake Nona for the next 15 years to ensure integration of technology into the community. (Read More)

In an effort to meet customer needs more efficiently, top-tier global defense and information solutions company ITT Exelis officially opened its new facility in Panama City. Systems produced by Exelis are heavily used by the U.S. Navy and allied forces to find and clear multiple types of sea mines during mine-clearing operations. (Read More)

The international communications and information technology company will provide the U.S Department of Defense with its Falcon III handheld radios for the next two years. The radios provide interoperable voice and wideband data communications in both line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight applications. (Read More)

Stretch Wrap Packaging Industries, a manufacturer of plastic stretch wrap for the logistics industry, has relocated their manufacturing facilities from South America to Fort Lauderdale. The company, whose total foreign direct investment is $12 million, has committed to add 200 jobs over the next three years. (Read More)

Since October 2011, 436 Guardsmen have acquired employment through the efforts of the Florida Guard Family Career Connection, a program established to address high unemployment rates and find meaningful employment for returning Florida National Guardsmen and their families. (Read More)

Florida’s unemployment rate declined to 8.7 percent in September and 3,500 new private sector jobs were created. The rate was 1.7 percentage points lower than the 2011 rate of 10.4 percent. Since December 2010, the state’s unemployment rate has dropped 2.4 percentage points and 156,800 private sector jobs have been created. (Read More)

Florida kept its No. 5 slot for the second straight year in the Tax Foundation’s 2013 edition of the State Business Tax Climate Index. The state’s rank is based on its corporate income, individual income, sales, unemployment insurance and property taxes. (Read More)

The State of Women-Owned Businesses Report ranked Florida fourth with an estimated 587,600 women-owned firms that employ 473,100 workers and have roughly $77.6 billion in revenue. (Read More)

Voalte, a leader in clinical communications technology at the point of care, plans on expanding after securing $6 million in funding from strategic partners. With the boost in funding, the company plans to create 100 new jobs, growing from 50 to 150 employees over the next 18 months. (Read More)

The Sunshine State had 968,700 hospitality jobs as of August 2012, up 13,900 from August 2011, according to a new On Numbers analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The leisure and hospitality sector includes performing arts companies, professional sports teams, museums, restaurants, bars and amusement parks. (Read More)

Accuform, a leading manufacturer and innovator of safety signs and related products, will invest $15million in the construction of a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility near its present location at the Hernando County Airport Corporate Park. The company will hire an additional 271 employees during the next four years, almost doubling its current staffing (280 employees). (Read More)

The cutting edge, high technology company from the U.K. has established its North American corporate headquarters in Fort Lauderdale and plans to expand to a staff of over 100 by mid-2014. SmartWater offers an asset protection system in the form of a clear liquid which contains a unique forensic code. It is applied to items of value that are frequently the target of theft. (Read More)

The Minnesota-based pharmacy benefit management company’s new 55,000-square-foot building in Orlando will bring 213 new jobs to the region over the next three years. “Today’s move is another strong step in the right direction for Florida and an example of how our state is open for business,” said Governor Scott said of the $18.1 million capital investment. (Read More)

Miami-Dade County will be home to a new Univision/ABC television network that will create 346 jobs and make a $274.52 million in capital investment in the area. It is estimated that the joint venture also will bring the county 208 indirect jobs and $8 million in yearly wages within 3 years. (Read More)

Florida’s High Tech Corridor, which is made up of a mix of aerospace, digital media and energy companies, posted 7,752 tech jobs making it the fourth biggest according to research conducted by Bright Labs, a data resource center. Silicon Valley, Silicon Alley in New York City and Dulles Tech Corridor ranked first, second and third respectively. (Read More)

GPD Pathology, a life sciences company, is projected to hire 83 employees over three years at an average annual wage of $68,000. The company, which will make a capital investment of more than $4.6 million into their new facility, expects to be operation by March 2013. (Read More)

http://www.eflorida.com/uploadedFiles/Press_Releases/10102012_UNIVISION.pdf

Colo5, whose services provide protection to a company's IT infrastructure from sabotage, theft, hardware malfunction, viruses, man-made and natural disasters, will be building a new $20 million data center in Lakeland. The company, which has experienced 950% growth since 2008, chose Lakeland for logistical reasons and proximity to Orlando and Tampa. (Read More)

The Center of Excellence for Coral Reef Ecosystems Research has created 22 new academic jobs and 300construction jobs, and it will employ 50 graduate students as well as preserving 22 existing academic jobs. (Read More) 

Gov. Rick Scott announced that 11 Florida communities with military installations collectively will receive $850,000 in 2012-13 Defense Reinvestment Grants, which support base retention and economic diversification efforts. (Read More)

The recent Florida Economic Estimating Conference, a collaborative event featuring the state’s top public sector economists, projected that Florida is expected to create more than 900,000 new jobs by 2018. (Read More)

Brevard and Santa Fe Colleges were announced as finalists for The Aspen Institute’s Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. The prize recognizes institutions four areas: student learning outcomes, degree and college completion, labor market success in students securing jobs after college, and minority and low-income student success. (Read More)

The University of Miami (#5) and Florida State University (#7) medical schools ranked among the nation's best for Hispanics according to HispanicBusiness.com (Read More)

Florida International University (#2), Florida State University (#3) and the University of Miami (#9) colleges of law ranked among best in the nation for Hispanics according to HispanicBusiness.com. (Read More)

Fort Lauderdale has grabbed first place among the top 50 destinations in the U.S. for the lowest combined travel-related taxes. Tied with Fort Lauderdale for the No. 1 spot were West Palm Beach and Fort Myers, while Orlando ranked No. 10 and Miami No. 16. (Read More)

According to Forbes, Orlando (15th) and Miami (19th) rank among the 20 happiest cities for young professionals, based on over 38,000 employee reviews. (Read More)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:  (850) 717-9282

Since December 2010, Florida’s unemployment rate has dropped 2.3 percentage points, more than any other state in the nation. (Read More)

Orlando was one of a dozen cities named as the best places to start a new company, according to Tech Cocktail. (Read More)

AeroTurbine Aviation, a Miami aviation supply company, will expand its corporate headquarters to Miramar early next year bringing 75 new jobs. (Read More)

Media Advisory
Enterprise Florida board to meet Sept. 13 
What: 
Quarterly meeting of the Enterprise Florida Board of Directors
When: 
Thursday, Sept. 13, 2012  8:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Where: 
Don Cesar Hotel
3400 Gulf Blvd.
St. Petersburg Beach 33706
Dial-in Number:
(877).402-9753    Access Code: 6423569#

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Enterprise Florida, Inc. (www.eflorida.com) is a partnership between Florida's business and government leaders and is the principal economic development organization for the state of Florida.  Headquartered in Orlando, Enterprise Florida’s mission is to facilitate job growth for Florida’s businesses and citizens leading to a vibrant statewide economy.  In pursuit of its mission, Enterprise Florida works closely with a statewide network of economic development partners and is funded both by the State of Florida and by private-sector businesses.

 

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Sarasota, Florida was selected among FastCompany's Top 10 Underrated Hotbeds of American Innovation. The magazine highlights Sarasota's growing number of startups in fields like film, media, and medical research. (Read more)

Due to tremendous product demand, Panama City-based iSirona--which has grown from 33 to 100 employees since January 2012--is creating an additional 100 new Florida jobs. (Read more)

Total Quality Logistics, the third-largest freight broker in the nation which specializes in full truckload transportation plans, to create 50 jobs in Dania Beach. (Read more)

Melbourne-based Harris Corp. was awarded a $46 million systems and network integration solution contract from the U.S. Air Force. (Read more)

Gainesville company Altavian has received a five-year contract from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to maintain and support its unmanned aircraft used for surveys and inspections in Florida and Puerto Rico. (Read more)

XCOR Aerospace has chosen Florida to be the home of its new East Coast U.S. operations base, 150 jobs, and if market demand allows, a new manufacturing and assembly center. (Read more)

Governor Rick Scott and others broke ground on the final piece of Port Manatee's 11-year, $200-million expansion--a project expected to create 595 construction jobs and 180 permanent Florida jobs. (Read more)

Business Facilities named 4 Florida metros national winners: Orlando (#3) and Tampa (#4) are national leaders in Lowest Cost of Business; Cape Coral is America's #3 Fastest Growing City; Miami ranks #4 Logistics Leader in Air Cargo Hubs. (Read more)

Global Response Corporation, a call services center for multichannel retail, healthcare, insurance and automotive industries will be expanding its current operation and is planning to create 200 new jobs. (Read more)

Nearly 300 Florida companies were named to Inc.'s 2012 list of America's fastest-growing private companies, including #1 in the nation, North Miami Beach-based Unified Payments, which experienced 3-year revenue growth of 23,646%. (Read more)

Florida won several national accolades in Business Facilities' new report: #2 Best Transportation Infrastructure, #3 for Workforce Training Leader, #4 Best Business Climate, and #5 Best Business Tax Climate. (Read more)

Florida is home to nearly 586,500 privately held business establishments, so it is a tremendous accomplishment to be named 1 of only 50 "Florida Companies to Watch." (Read more)

Florida ranks #5 for attracting FDI investment projects, according the fDi Report 2012. (Read more)

StreetLinks Lender Solutions is more than doubling its Florida presence. The company announced plans to add up to 300 new Florida jobs at today's grand opening. (Read more)

Miami (#5) and Tampa (#36) were both ranked among America's Top 50 Cities for Global Trade by Global Trade Magazine. (Read more)

Four Florida cities were named to a new list of U.S. Cities Getting Smarter the Fastest. Jacksonville (#7) and Orlando (#8) saw nearly 50% gains in their college-educated populations, and Tampa (#11, +39.6%) and Miami (#23, +31.7%) also outpaced traditional hotspots like Boston, Washington and Seattle. (Read more)

  Contact: Stuart Doylez

Navy Federal Credit Union is creating 700 new Florida jobs and investing $6.5 million, thanks to the Pensacola area's "high caliber workforce" and help from the new IRREF Grant Program (available in 8 Florida counties). (Read more)

IT folks fishing for jobs will have better luck finding honey holes in the technology-fueled economies of California, Virginia, Texas, New York, and Florida. (Read more)

Ansafone, a national telephone call and contact center providing everything from basic answering services to large scale contact center solutions for major large companies, will invest $2 million to move into and improve a Customer Service Center in downtown Ocala, Florida, with projections of creating 300 jobs. (Read more)

Palm Beach Gardens-based TBC Corporation, one of the nation's largest marketers of automotive replacement tires, will invest $12 million to expand its headquarters in Florida, creating 175 new jobs. (Read more)

The State of Florida has cut 3 years off of the expected completion date of Port Canaveral's expansion by investing $24.4 million toward widening and deepening the shipping channel. (Read more)

Due to the increase its repair and overhaul business, Air Technology Engines is expanding manufacturing space and hiring more workers in Naples. (Read more)

Due to the increase its repair and overhaul business, Air Technology Engines is expanding manufacturing space and hiring more workers in Naples. (Read more)

NeoGenomics, Inc. is expanding its laboratory and corporate headquarters in Fort Myers by adding 75 net new jobs with an average salary of $54,000 and an economic impact of $8.1 million. (Read more)

NeoGenomics, Inc. is expanding its laboratory and corporate headquarters in Fort Myers by adding 75 net new jobs with an average salary of $54,000 and an economic impact of $8.1 million. (Read more)

Office operations in Chicago, including marketing, sales and engineering will shift to Jacksonville to take advantage of Florida's warmer climate and heavy concentration of boat manufacturers that will facilitate a year-round product development cycle. (Read more)

HenKay Precast, Inc., a Division of S & S Precast, has expanded into Hendry County and has begun operations by leasing a 50,000SF building--this plant is their first permanent expansion into another state to manufacture concrete. (Read more)

Piquet Group, a renowned Brazilian investment firm with offices in Miami and New York, offers its clients the convenience of a one-stop shop for all their business needs, from its booming real estate business to concierge services, online education and a real estate university, exotic transportation and racing, to interior design and marketing. (Read more)

In the 12 months between CNBC.com's 2011 and 2012 Top States for Business reports, the economy has created 1.8 million jobs--a third of the new jobs has been concentrated in 10 states. Look ahead to see the top job-generating states as well as which sectors and companies are contributing to the growth. (Read more)

While the number of online job posts contracted in most states from June to July, Florida added 5,600 available jobs. (Read more)

The U.S. Navy will create 100 jobs as it upgrades and refurbishes its missile testing facility at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. (Read more)

The acquisition will allow the port to develop the land for cargo terminals and distribution, as well as cargo generating industrial manufacturing activities--this expansion will help attract new business. (Read more)

With a significant number of manufacturers in the area, Broward College will help grow this industry sector by making sure that people have the right skills to fill the jobs that are open in manufacturing. (Read more)

Sometimes in business what might seem like a disaster at first blush later turns out to be a blessing. Since last year, Daubmann opened a new store in Sarasota and plans to open another in Tampa. There are plans to expand nationally, too. (Read more)

WellCare Health Plans, Inc., a leading provider of managed care services for government-sponsored health care programs, and Teleperformance, the world's leading provider of outsourced customer experience management services, formed a partnership to launch a new call center in North Lauderdale, Florida. (Read more)

Talented entrepreneurs continue to thrive in Florida. Check out this article for 15+ examples of Florida startups experiencing success. (Read more)

Drone manufacturer Prioria Robotics Inc. is investing $2 million and creating at least 30 new jobs in the next two years in Gainesville. (Read more)

Florida ranks 6th for number of women-owned businesses and 10th for economic clout of women-owned firms. (Read more)

Air Products, based in Allentown, Pa., plans to expand its liquefied natural gas heat exchanger manufacturing capacity by constructing a manufacturing in Manatee County. (Read more)

Somahlution, a privately-held development stage life science company focused on advancing the science of organ and surgical conduit transplantation, will relocate from Fargo, North Dakota to Jupiter, Florida. (Read more)

BioRamo, LLC, a manufacturer of both over-the-counter and prescription liquid and semi-solid products, has selected Fort Lauderdale as the site for the location of its company operations. (Read more)

Business Facilities ranks Florida #3 among America's Top States for Workforce Training. (Read more)

The White House has selected 2 Florida projects to be among the first 7 expedited under the federal "We Can't Wait" program. JAXPORT and PortMiami were selected. (Read more)

Have you heard about the growing trend of financial services companies moving off of Wall Street and into Florida? Get the full story on the Florida Business Smarts Blog.

Growing by a phenomenal 163% over the quarter, venture capitalists invested $95 million into Florida companies in the second quarter of 2012--ranking Florida among the nation's top 10 states. (Read more)

Business Facilities has named Florida as one of America's Top 5 States for Best Business Climate. (Read more)

The U.S. Department of Commerce has added three North Florida counties to the Foreign-Trade Zone #64: Bradford, Putnam and St. Johns. This expansion will attract new cargo, manufacturing and distribution operations to the region by offering companies cost- and time-savings. (Read more)

Digital Risk, the nation's largest provider of mortgage risk, compliance and transaction management solutions, just announced that it selected Florida--over four other states--as the location for its 1,000 job expansion. (Read more)

Florida Power & Light Company's special economic development rate helped convince Cheney Brothers Inc., a major food service distributor, to build a new $100 million distribution center in Punta Gorda, creating 300 jobs for Floridians. (Read more)

Contact: Stuart Doyle

Jacksonville (#5) and Orlando (#8) rank among America's Best Cities for College Grads. (Read more)

Thousands of employees in the happiest cities say they're most satisfied with the people they work with, the way they work and the work that they do. Florida is home to 3 of the top 20: Miami (#1), Palm Bay (#14), and Tampa (#20). (Read more)

Citibank has hired 200 new employees and plans to hire an additional 200 at its Southside Jacksonville campus. (Read more)

The Container Store will open three Florida locations in 2013. The new stores will be located in Orlando, Tampa and Boca Raton, and will generate more than 180 jobs. (Read more)

Recognized as one of the fastest growing solid-state lighting solution providers in the U.S., LumaStream has expanded in its lighting systems and power supply technologies by raising $4.5 million in operations capital and is seeking an additional $6 million to meet both market growth demands and foreseen expansion plans. (Read more)

xpedx, a business-to-business distribution company with offices in Tampa and Lakeland, plans to hire more than 300 people in the next three to five years. (Read more)

Bioni USA and Americas LLC, a distributor of advanced coatings for walls, roofs and ceilings, is consolidating its U.S. operations in Manatee County and plans to add 28 jobs. (Read more)

Vets, AT&T believes, are the "leaders of tomorrow" who understand teamwork, have technical skills and are loyal. (Read more)

Radiant Power Corp., which designs and makes backup power and cabin power management products for a host of aerospace companies such as Boeing, is adding 26 jobs in the next five years as part of an expansion that includes the acquisition of a Pennsylvania company. (Read more)

Pensacola's National Naval Aviation Museum Foundation is extending its mission with a new, $45--million institution focused on science, technology, math and engineering. (Read more)

BBA Aviation, the leading global aviation support and aftermarket services provider, has committed to a seven-year lease extension and expansion of its downtown Orlando corporate headquarters offices. (Read more)

Prioria Robotics, a developer and manufacturer of unmanned aerial vehicles completed a $5.5 million series C round, and plans to add 40 new Florida jobs. (Read more)

Florida has the highest level of exports as a share of total manufactured goods, according to the National Association of Manufacturers. (Read more)

NASA has signed a new partnership with Craig Technologies of Melbourne, Fla. that will loan 1,600 pieces of NASA's high-tech equipment to Craig Technologies. (Read more)

Florida is home to 4 of the nation's top 10 magnet schools--more than any other state. (Read more)

CNBC rated states based on the education level of their workforce, the numbers of available workers, union membership, and relative success of each state's worker training programs in placing their participants in jobs. (Read more)

Rocket Crafters, a Utah-based corporation that holds licenses for advanced hybrid rocket and aerospace composite technologies as well as proprietary hybrid rocket design and analysis software, will relocate to Titusville to develop and commercialize a new hybrid rocket propulsion technology and leverage an ultralightweight, advanced composite material to manufacture dual-propulsion suborbital space planes. (Read more)

Rockets and spacecraft have been launched from KSC for 45 years, but thanks to a new state-of-the-art spacecraft production line, they will also be built in Florida--a move expected to create 350 to 400 jobs by the end of 2013. (Read more)

Save-A-Lot, one of the nation's leading hard-discount grocery retailers, is planning a state-of-the-art, 250,374-square-foot, food distribution center in Pompano Beach. (Read more)

American Medical Depot, an emergency medical distribution company, will add 50 jobs and move 97 workers to a new building in Miramar. (Read more)

H2Ocean, a company that has done business in Martin County since 2008, says the launch into Walgreens is the first step in a plan to achieve nationwide distribution and double its staff in the next three years. (Read more)

CTS Engines, a leading independent engine MRO, announced the grand opening of its new, state-of-the-art engine service center. The 60,000 square foot building, located next to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, is a full service engine overhaul facility capable of performing the vast majority of all engine repairs in-house. (Read more)

Private Jet Charter, one of the world's largest independent private jet charter brokers and consultants, expanded its headquarters in Fort Lauderdale. (Read more)

Contact: Stuart Doyle

Contact: Stuart Doyle

M-ize, a start-up tech firm in Temple Terrace, plans to grow to over 50 people in the next 12 to 18 months. The Tampa Bay area was selected as the headquarters because of the favorable business environment, access to technical talent and the nice weather. (Read more)

Tampa Bay's large number of health care professionals and diverse, multilingual population attracted Inovalon, Inc. (formally named MedAssurant, Inc.) to open a new multilingual communications center that will employ registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to help in member care coordination and health care improvement. (Read more)

MBM Corporation modified a 200,000 square foot facility with freezer/cooler equipment and materials handling equipment to better serve their food industry customers. As part of the $4 million expansion, the company consolidated their operations in Polk County retaining 78 jobs with plans to create 20 new jobs. (Read more)

Home Source International has chosen Florida's Great Northwest as the home of their new Made in USA manufacturing and distribution operations, and plans to create 303 new Florida jobs. (Read more)

The Intellectual Property Owners Association (IPO) ranked USF 10th worldwide among all universities granted U.S. patents in 2011. (Read more)

A new cutting-edge simulation laboratory and expanded degree offerings will provide top notch training for Florida's future healthcare workforce. (Read more)

TAO Sustainable Power Solutions, the U.S. subsidiary of a Brazil-based renewable energy corporation, is moving to a larger facility and plans to hire 50 mechanical engineers, ranging in pay from at least $90,000 to $100,000. (Read more)

e-Builder, Inc., the pioneer in fully integrated, cloud-based construction program management software, has selected Plantation, Florida as the site for the expansion of their headquarters office. (Read more)

Battelle & BIO rank Florida a national leader in the Biosciences. Florida earned top marks for employment size and concentration in the Bioscience-Related Distribution and Agricultural Feedstock & Chemicals subsectors, and for employment size in the Medical Devices & Equipment and Research, Testing & Medical Laboratories subsectors. (Read more)

Florida schools scored numerous awards in multiple categories on Community College Week's latest rankings. (Read more)

Contact: Stuart Doyle

Florida is the only U.S. state to earn an A in the Postsecondary Access and Success category for both 2-year and 4-year institutions, in a new report issued by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. (Read more)

A new partnership between EA Sports and the University of Central Florida will boost Florida's talent pipeline and further strengthen Central Florida's reputation as a national leader in the digital media industry. (Read more)

The Federal Aviation Administration awarded Embraer Executive Jets' assembly facility at Melbourne International Airport its production certificate to assemble Phenom 100s in the United States. (Read more)

Affordable housing and a low unemployment rate have helped rate Tallahassee among America's most millennial-friendly cities. (Read more)

Profil Institute for Clinical Research and Florida Hospital are joining forces to launch a new Research Center that will enhance healthcare options and create new jobs for Florida's citizens. (Read more)

Cloud South has opened South Florida's newest public data center, adding to the region's position as a major internet gateway. (Read more)

Disney has joined a growing list of global leaders who are rerouting their cargo to take advantage of JAXPORT's expanded facilities and efficient services--a move that will boost Florida's economy and create more jobs for Floridians. (Read more)

Disney has joined a growing list of global leaders who are rerouting their cargo to take advantage of JAXPORT's expanded facilities and efficient services--a move that will boost Florida's economy and create more jobs for Floridians. (Read more)

The National Chamber Foundation's 2012 report on the private sector business climate is out, and Florida ranks #1 state for Talent Pipeline and #1 state for Infrastructure. (Read more)

Healthcare, high-tech and tourism are credited with earning Orlando a place in the national spotlight, as Kiplinger named it 1 of 8 metros poised to become job-creating machines. (Read more)

Advanced Communications Group, Inc., a provider of customer contact solutions, will more than double its space when it moves to a new 26,000 sq. ft. facility in Boynton Beach. The company expects to create 200 new jobs. (Read more)

The Mayo Clinic is expanding in Jacksonville, and that means hundreds of new jobs. (Read more)

The Beacon Council reports that three Spanish companies will be adding 465 jobs within three years in Miami-Dade County. (Read more)

TotalBank, a member of Grupo Banco Popular Espanol, will add 10 new branches with 60 jobs within three years and a $4 million in capital investment. (Read more)

The President's "E" Award was created by Executive Order of the President to afford suitable recognition to persons, firms, or organizations which contribute significantly in the effort to increase United States exports. Ambient Technologies of St. Petersburg, Gulf South of Ft. Lauderdale and My US.com of Sarasota were Florida's winners in 2012. (Read more)

This new business boasts a 70,000-square-foot state-of-the-art materials recovery facility. The facility is a $16 million investment by Republic Services, and is the company's first MRF to be designed and built from the ground up. (Read more)

In FY2011, Florida moved into the top 10, climbing from 12th place last year and dropping Michigan out of the top 10. (Read more)

Florida is one of four global locations singled out by Jones Lang LaSalle as a magnet for life sciences investment. (Read more)

In 2011, Florida led the way with $1.47 billion in recreational boat sales, a 35 percent climb over 2010 and the most marine sales of any state. (Read more)

Top financial executives from America's multinational companies rank Florida 1 of the 3 most tax competitive states in the nation. (Read more)

Lakeland's available labor pool has enticed Sykes Enterprises to expand in Florida. The Tampa-based company already employs about 400 people in Lakeland, Florida and will be adding 600 new jobs at their new customer service call center. (Read more)

HControl Holdings, a company that provides digital television, high-speed Internet and telephone services, is expanding its Coral Gables location and plans to add 75 jobs within three years. (Read more)

HControl Holdings, a company that provides digital television, high-speed Internet and telephone services, is expanding its Coral Gables location and plans to add 75 jobs within three years. (Read more)

Nearly 300 new jobs will be created in Miami as Lyoness selects the Magic City for its international HQ for the Americas. (Read more)

Cross Match Technologies in Palm Beach Gardens, a manufacturer of sophisticated biometric detection systems for the military, has developed hand-held fingerprint scanners for police and sheriff's departments. (Read more)

An analysis of fifty indicators has placed two Florida beaches among the nation's best: St. George Island State Park (#2) and Cape Florida State Park (#6). (Read more)

SpaceX is the first U.S. commercial space company to successfully launch a demonstration mission to the ISS as part of NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services program. (Read more)

Orlando & Jacksonville (#3) and Orlando (#6) rank among Forbes' Top 10 Happiest Cities For Job-Seeking College Grads. (Read more)

Priceline.com, Inc. is opening its second U.S. call center (and seventh worldwide) in South Orlando in SouthPark Center. The company plans to hire 100 workers by December. (Read more)

Cambryn Biologics, announces the initiation of the commissioning of its state-of-the-art biological manufacturing facility in Sarasota and Manatee County, Florida. CB specializes in biologically based raw material derived primarily from human plasma. (Read more)

Miami (#6), Gainesville (#8) and Orlando (#14) all rank among America's Most Well-Read Cities according to Amazon. (Read more)

Florida dominated the small cities category of American Style Magazine's Top 10 Arts Cities. Congratulations to Sarasota (#1), Bradenton (#2), Key West (#4) and Naples (#9)! (Read more)

Jacksonville has clocked a 72.4% expansion in tech employment and 17.4% STEM job growth since 2001, mostly as a result of a boom in data centers, computer facilities management, custom programming and systems design occurring early in the past decade. (Read more)

Helping more than 5,000 South Florida entrepreneurs and small businesses each year, and creating multiple community education programs, South Palm Beach SCORE has earned a well-deserved national award. (Read more)

Florida's business-friendly climate attracted 69 foreign direct investment projects in 2011--the 5th highest in North America. (Read more)

Private equity firms invested $8 billion in 93 Florida-based companies in 2011--the sixth largest investment amount among all states. (Read more)

LS9, Inc., a technology leader in the development of renewable and sustainable products, today announced an investment from the Florida Opportunity Fund's Clean Energy Investment Program, and the Grand Opening plans for its facility in Okeechobee, Florida. (Read more)

Marinetek, a Finland-based builder of marinas throughout Europe, Asia and Middle East has opened its new North American headquarters in St. Petersburg today, with plans to employ 50. (Read more)

Sun Hydraulics reaffirms its commitment to Florida by building a third manufacturing facility that may create nearly 400 new Florida jobs. (Read more)

Global Organic Specialty Source Inc., a wholesale distributor of organic produce, plans to combine its Miami and Manatee County operations in a larger facility in Sarasota County to accommodate the company's growth. The expansion is expected to result in 62 new jobs over the next five years. (Read more)

GE Aviation invests $20 million to expand in Pompano Beach. The new 30,000-square-foot space includes a new lab that will provide increased capacity for developing, testing and manufacturing advanced electrical power conversion products used on civil and military platforms. (Read more)

South Florida's affordable land, bilingual workforce, and easy access to Latin and South America, combined with its health conscious population, have attracted more than 1,000 new health and beauty company jobs. (Read more)

Enticed by Florida's talent base, access to direct air travel, and ability to attract additional world class talent, Astor & Black Custom Clothiers is moving out of Ohio and into Florida. (Read more)

Contact: Stuart Doyle
(407) 956-5689
sdoyle@eflorida.com

The high-tech workforce on Florida's Space Coast has attracted luxury boat builder, Bertram Yacht, and 221 new jobs. (Read more)

For the complete list, click here.

High-tech manufacturer, Teledyne Oil & Gas, will strengthen its commitment to Florida by launching a new Daytona Beach R&D center and creating 100 new Florida jobs. (Read more)

Majestic Candies Company plans to bring more than 100 new jobs in the next few years with a projected capital investment of $6 million. (Read more)

Blueware Inc., a tech company that has made inroads in the healthcare industry, will move from Michigan to Melbourne, bringing 190 jobs to the state. (Read more)

Florida's renewed commitment to business continues to gain national attention as CEOs from around the country rank Florida #2 Best State for Business--up from ranking 3rd in 2011. (Read more)

Florida Hospital plans to grow its Celebration Health campus with a new $30.5 million medical office building and parking garage. (Read more)

Aerospace Technologies Group, Inc. (ATG) unveils new corporate headquarters in Boca Raton. The 65,000 square foot, state-of-the-art, newly renovated facility is home to 130 manufacturing, administrative, research and development personnel and functions as the site for Aerospace Technologies Group's production lines. (Read more)

Two Florida cities are ranked among America's Best Small Towns: Naples (#9) and Key West (#16). (Read more)

Manatee's Hann Powerboats was one of just eight companies highlighted in the U.S. Department of Commerce's Annual Report. (Read more)

Allegra Direct Communications Inc. will invest $1.2 million to bring a health care-related call center and 200 jobs to Baldwin Park during the next three years. (Read more)

Florida is home to 58,310 exporting companies--second only to California. One out of every five, or 20%, of the nation's companies that export are located in Florida. (Read more)

Cleantech Group ranks Florida among the nation's top 10 states for green-tech patent registrations. (Read more)

Gainesville ranks among America's Hardest Working Towns, according to a PARADE study based on factors such as employment rate, average hours worked and willingness to work during personal time. (Read more)

Indian River State College's Brown Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a $21.5 million, 65,000 square foot facility, represents a unique partnership between the college and local business partners, including FPL. (Read more)

Orlando-based AcariaHealth Inc. plans to create up to 80 new jobs in the next three years. (Read more)

Florida Hospital and Sanford-Burnham celebrate the opening of the Florida Hospital-Sanford-Burnham Translational Research Institute for Metabolism and Diabetes' (TRI) new state-of-the-art facility in downtown Orlando, dedicated to the advancement of a new paradigm of personalized approaches to researching and treating diabetes and obesity. (Read more)

Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance wins Business Facilities' first ever Achievement in Public-Private Partnership Award. (Read more)

Health Management Associates Inc., parent corporation of Venice Regional Medical Center, plans to expand its regional central business office in Sarasota County, a move that is expected to preserve 148 local jobs and add 217 positions over two years. (Read more)

Google Inc.'s top technology guru expects Central Florida's military-oriented simulation industry to be at the forefront of the country's next wave of advances in training-and-education technologies. (Read more)

The 35,000-square-foot hangar will house a heavy-lift helicopter used by the U.S. Marine Corps that is being assembled on the campus. (Read more)

MindTree Limited, a global IT and Product Engineering Services Company, plans to open its first major U.S. Development Center in Gainesville. MindTree's expansion of its U.S. presence is expected to bring some 400 new jobs to the Gainesville area beginning late this summer. (Read more)

A German company that builds clean energy power generation systems will open a U.S. manufacturing plant in St. Augustine, creating 125 jobs with an average salary of $50,000. (Read more)

ThePeoplesVote.com, an internet-based, non partisan public policy service provider, has selected Palm Bay to begin its start-up operation. (Read more)

Medtronic, a medical technologies company, will build a new 75,000 square-foot building to expand its surgical technologies division headquarters in Jacksonville and expects to create 175 new full-time jobs by the end of 2015. (Read more)

GSE Holdings Inc., a subsidiary of Illinois Tool Works Inc. that manufactures aircraft ground support equipment and accessories, plans to relocate its Hobart Ground Power business from Troy, Ohio to Palmetto, Florida, creating 42 new Florida jobs. (Read more)

IRISS, which manufactures infrared windows for inspecting industrial electrical equipment, will consolidate its U.K.--based manufacturing operation and U.S. headquarters at a new global headquarters in Manatee County. (Read more)

ConMed Linvatec celebrated the grand opening of its new Center for Orthopaedic Education in Pinellas County. The 16,000-square-foot training facility will provide advanced surgeon education, surgical skills training and professional development on the company's existing medical device development and manufacturing operations. (Read more)

Justin Wetherill launched uBreakiFix Co. three years ago and now has 21 stores nationwide, 2011 revenue of $8.5 million and 42 new stores planned for 2012. (Read more)

Modernizing Medicine, Inc., a software company that delivers IT solutions for small and medium-sized specialty medical practices, plans to more than double its space and move to a new facility at the Research Park at Florida Atlantic University. (Read more)

Locus Traxx, a fast growing company focused on food safety and security of food shipments, will expand its operations to a 60,000 sq. ft. facility at the Florida Research Park, allowing the company to expand from 50 employees to 160 employees by the end of this year. (Read more)

Seaborn Networks LLC, a Boston company, plans to lay an underwater fiber optic cable stretching more than 6,000 miles from South Florida to Brazil that will create up to 50 jobs at the end of the line in Miami. (Read more)

Florida East Coast Industries, a Coral Gables real estate and transportation company, intends to develop a $1 billion passenger rail service that would use existing tracks north to Cocoa and then build a new rail extension from Cocoa to Orlando. The total length of the route would be 240 miles, with the possibility of expansion to Tampa and Jacksonville. (Read more)

Technology companies sometimes complain about the difficulty of finding skilled workers, but Citrix Systems and Broward College have taken a big step to deal with the issue. The college and the region's largest software company are creating the Citrix IT Academy at Broward College's North Campus in Coconut Creek. (Read more)

Another great testament to Florida's business-friendly climate, Florida is home to 3 of the nation's most cost competitive large metros: Orlando (#3), Tampa (#4) and Miami (#11). (Read more)

Florida's strides in growing a business-friendly state are attracting national attention as the state ranks among the America's top 10 states for entrepreneurship and among the top 10 most improved over the last decade. (Read more)

The State of Florida and Google have joined forces to give Florida's small businesses free websites and online tools so that they can establish an internet presence. (Read more)

Martin Health System broke ground today on its new hospital at the Tradition Center for Innovation. The 90-bed Tradition Medical Center will provide a valuable resource for research studies taking place at TCI. (Read more)

The Tradition Center for Innovation and the Vaccine & Gene Therapy Institute Florida today announced the grand opening of a new, 100,000 square foot facility within TCI's 15--acre research park. Since breaking ground in 2006, TCI has attracted world-class research institutes and healthcare facilities making it one of the fastest growing immunology research hubs in the country. (Read more)

Moffitt Cancer Center announced the creation of a Personalized Medicine Institute aimed at making a national impact in the war on cancer by delivering on the promise of personalized cancer care. (Read more)

In addition to construction jobs, some 200 permanent jobs are expected to be created at the new $65 million Poinciana Medical Center. (Read more)

Florida Hospital and USF Health have formed a strategic alliance,combining Adventist Health System's innovative approach to patient-centered care with the University of South Florida's leading research, to deliver cutting-edge medical therapies in hospital and outpatient settings. (Read more)

Hot Brands International, a restaurant company based in Toronto, Canada, has established its U.S. headquarters in Lakewood Ranch in Manatee County, Florida. (Read more)

Emerson recently celebrated the official opening of its new consolidated Latin America headquarters facility in Sunrise. (Read more)

BI-LO and Winn Dixie announced that Jacksonville will serve as the location for its combined company headquarters, resulting in approximately 900 jobs retained, 100 new high-wage jobs created over time and an approximate $93 million capital investment. (Read more)

Beacon Hill Institute ranks Florida #1 in Government & Fiscal Policy--a great testament to the State leadership's commitment to growth and economic development. (Read more)

Brazilian jet manufacturer Embraer S.A. is adding a $24 million engineering center to its existing assembly plant and customer center at Melbourne International Airport. The new 63,500-square-foot center is expected to employ 200 people with an average annual salary of $70,000. (Read more)

Dental products manufacturer DENTSPLY Raintree Essix Glenroe is consolidating operations in Manatee County, a move that is expected to preserve 150 local jobs and add 48 positions in 2012. (Read more)

ThePeoplesVote.com, an internet-based, non partisan public policy service provider, has selected Palm Bay to begin its start-up operation. (Read more)

AT&T invested nearly $2.8 billion in its Florida wireless and wireline networks from 2009 through 2011 with a focus on improving the company's mobile broadband coverage and overall performance of its networks. (Read more)

Humana Cares began operating in the Tampa Bay area roughly three years ago. After this latest round of hiring, the Humana division will employ roughly 1,450 workers from the local labor force. (Read more)

According to a new Goldman Sachs survey, Florida is outpacing the nation in creating new jobs. (Read more)

Disney Cruise Line announced that the addition of The Walt Disney Co.'s new cruise ship, the Disney Fantasy, is expected to create 500 jobs in Central Florida. (Read more)

Florida is home to 2 of the nation's top 10 cities to find information technology jobs. Hotspots include Orlando (#3) and Jacksonville (#9). (Read more)

Florida's thriving IT sector continues to create jobs for Florida residents. According to BusinessWeek, 3 of the nation's top 10 cities for IT job growth are in Florida (Jacksonville, Miami & Tampa). (Read more)

Florida companies dominated 2012 Exporter of the Year rankings. This year's Florida winners were Hernon Manufacturing, The Intermarket Group, and Marketing Arm International Inc. (Read more)

Bringing in a whopping $35.9 billion to Florida's economy, the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach MSA continues its reign as the nation's 5th largest merchandise export metro. (Read more)

Protective Products Enterprises, Inc., of Sunrise, Fla., was awarded a firm-fixed-price contract with a maximum $119,879,068 for improved outer tactical vest and outer tactical vest components. There are no other locations of performance. (Read more)

Axium Healthcare Pharmacy, Inc., a specialty pharmaceutical company, has announced plans to expand its operations in Lake Mary, Fla., including a $664,000 capital investment for a new facility. The company plans to hire 90 new jobs over the next three years and retain an existing 115 positions. (Read more)

Gray Swoope Op Ed: American Airlines

The Princeton Review has named the University of Central Florida and Full Sail University to its list of America’s Top Schools to Study Video Game Design. (Read more)

Florida-based Cyclone Power Technologies, Inc. has been selected to produce high tech biofuel steam engines for the U.S. Army. (Read more)

According to Fortune Magazinem Florida is home to more of America's Most Admired Companies than most all of the other U.S. states. (Read more)

Florida is home to two of the top cities in the nation for retirement, including #1 ranked Sarasota. (Read more)

Publix Super Markets is reaffirming its commitment to the state of Florida by investing nearly $190 million and creating jobs for 150+ workers as it builds a new Orlando distribution center. (Read more)

With $64.8 billion in origin exports last year - 17 percent higher than 2010's total - Florida continues its reign as the nation's fourth largest export state. (Read more)

Florida retains 4th place rank among exporting states

Florida home to two of the top 10 moving locations, according "Move Ahead" and Penske Truck Rental. (Read more)

Protocol Global Solutions is creating 400 Florida jobs that will offer a "complete employment benefit package" including health care, vision, dental, life insurance and a 401(k) retirement fund. (Read more)

According to preliminary estimates, an estimated 85.9 million visitors came to Florida in 2011, an increase of 4.4 percent over 2010. (Read more)

A new study showing that there are now roughly 466,000 jobs in the "App Economy" in the United States ranks Florida among the top 10. (Read more)

Florida's public high school students took more Advanced Placement classes than ever in 2011 and also aced more of the AP exams, meaning more students who graduated were likely ready for college. (Read more)

(LAKE MARY, FL) February 13, 2012 - Today, Governor Rick Scott announced that Verizon Communications, a Fortune 100 company, will establish a finance and accounting “Center of Excellence” in Lake Mary. This new facility will initially create 300 jobs by the fourth quarter of 2014, with a total of 750 new jobs by 2016. In addition, it will bring a $50 million capital investment to the Orlando area.

Governor Scott said, “Verizon’s choice to locate their Center of Excellence in Lake Mary is great news for Florida families. With the second largest drop in unemployment rate in the country, this addition of 750 new jobs with Verizon is more proof we have made the right choices over the pst two years to keep our economy growing.”

Michelle Robinson, vice president, south area, shed light on the reason Florida was chosen for this project

“We have received a warm welcome from the state and local economic development partners, who aided in our decision process to locate in Metro Orlando,” said Robinson. “The region’s talent pipeline, which is full of finance and accounting graduates, was an integral factor in Verizon choosing to invest in Central Florida.”

This new location will centralize Verizon’s accounting, finance, and back office operations. Integrating these departments into one location will help Verizon improve processes, enhance service to internal and external customers, and improve career and networking opportunities for employees.

Organizations that partnered to support the Verizon project include City of Lake Mary, Enterprise Florida Inc., Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission and Seminole County. Workforce Florida Inc. and the local universities and colleges also provided assistance as well.

Seminole County Commission Chairman Bob Dallari said, “Our financial service sector is growing and with great locations, talent and livability. I know more companies will continue to join Verizon in Seminole County.”

Lake Mary Mayor David Mealor added, “Lake Mary is very pleased to have Verizon join our business community. Their decision to locate such a large back office facility in our city is an honor and we welcome the jobs coming with it with open arms.”

Rick Weddle, president and CEO of the Metro Orlando EDC, pointed out that “Metro Orlando has been seeing strong growth in the shared services sector and we are pleased to have an industry leader such as Verizon join our region.”

Attending the event with Governor Rick Scott was Secretary of Commerce and president & CEO of Enterprise Florida, Gray Swoope.

“It’s a proud day for Florida when we can announce 750 new jobs,” said Swoope. “This is a success story not only for that reason but also because it proves the hard work and accomplishments of Enterprise Florida and its partners are growing and diversifying our economy.”

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Major economic entities signed a joint memorandum of intent (MOI) at the Tampa Port Authority's headquarters today to try to stimulate economic growth and global trade by way of collaborative international initiatives and investments. (Read more)

‎The Princeton Review has honored five Florida schools by adding them to an elite group of America's Best Value Colleges, including two of the top 10: New College of Florida (3rd) and University of Florida (7th). (Read more)

Enzymedica Inc., a life sciences company and industry leader of therapeutic enzyme supplements, has renovated its new, larger location in Sarasota County to expand its laboratory and production facilities and add 72 employees. (Read more)

The University of Florida has been selected to become a Regional University Transportation Center and was awarded $3.5 million for transportation research. (Read more)

The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education selected UCF's College of Education's TLE TechLivE Lab for its 2012 Best Practices Award, which recognizes the innovative use of technology. (Read more)

Moffitt, Sanford-Burnham and Florida Hospital join to create the Personalized Medicine Partnership of Florida. (Read more)

The South Runway Expansion Project at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is expected to be one of the most significant construction projects in the state of Florida during the next several years and is expected to generate more than 11,000 temporary jobs over the life of the project. (Read more)

By 2017, the College of Medicine and UCF's medical city partners at Lake Nona are projected to create 30,000 jobs and more than $7.6 billion in annual economic impact. (Read more)

Tampa is home to a nascent start-up scene, and local government is particularly business-friendly, promising tax credits to businesses that locate in certain areas or work in one of a number of high-demand industries, including life sciences and sustainable energy. (Read more)

Feld Entertainment, producer of well-known brands such as Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, Disney On Ice, Disney Live!, Monster Jam and others, is relocating its global production facility to Ellenton and creating 235 new Florida jobs. (Read more)

Progressive, the auto insurance subsidiary of The Progressive Corp., will hire 390 additional sales, service and claims representatives for its Riverview contact center in the coming months. (Read more)

Matrix Medical Network, a provider of health assessments to members of Medicare Advantage health plans, is opening a marketing outreach center in Clearwater with plans for at least 150 employees. (Read more)

America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses debuted in Miami-Dade County with plans to create more than 200 jobs this year statewide, and similar growth over the next three years with the creation of 200 jobs per year. (Read more)

Florida teachers earned the highest grade in the nation on the National Council on Teacher Quality's 2011 State Teacher Policy Yearbook. (Read more)

Florida Opportunity Fund appointments

Web.com plans to create more than 200 new jobs during the next two years, with a majority of the new positions slated for its Jacksonville headquarters. (Read more)

Florida continues its reign as one of the nation's best states for business, ranking among the top 5 states for favorable business tax climate. (Read more)

One of the fastest growing companies in America has strengthened its commitment to Florida by pledging to create 600 new jobs, expand its current facility and build a new 200,000 square foot facility. (Read more)

Enterprise Florida board to meet Jan. 26 in Tallahassee

HealthGrades, the leading provider of information to help consumers make an informed decision about a physician or hospital, named West Palm Beach, FL among their list of America's Top 10 Cities for Hospital Care. (Read more)

KCI specializes in inspection, maintenance and repair of business jets and turbo-props, notably those powered by Pratt and Whitney engines. KCI plans to hire a minimum of 30 workers by the end of 2014 with an approximate average annual wage of $46,000. (Read more)

Smith & Associates will soon open a new office in downtown St. Petersburg. The new location will eventually be the base of operations for 50 agents. (Read more)

Lawn care giant TruGreen is putting down roots in Tampa, hiring up to 175 workers to staff a newly opened national call center inside the Netpark office complex. (Read more)

ALM Technologies Inc. (a.k.a. Definitive Design Inc.), a high precision aerospace manufacturing company, is moving out of Georgia and into Nassau County, Florida. (Read more)

Cantonment-based Custom Control Solutions, Inc. is expanding to Pensacola. (Read more)

Two years after selling The Digital Animation & Visual Effects School, founders Jeff and Anne Scheetz are moving full speed ahead with a new boutique animation studio on Sand Lake Road called Monkey Chow Productions. (Read more)

Radical Cosmetics, LLC, will relocate its corporate headquarters and manufacturing facility from New Brunswick, New Jersey to the City of Lake Worth Commerce Park. The company selected Florida over locations in California and Virginia. (Read more)

Meru Networks, a technology company based in Sunnyvale, Calif., plans to open a Tampa office and create 60 local sales jobs. (Read more)

Florida is a national leader in state R&D spending, investing nearly $97 million -- the 4th highest in the United States -- in the most recently reported year. (Read more)

HBO Latin America is growing its Miami-Dade County presence, expecting to add 101 jobs over the next two years and soon to relocate to a new headquarters in double its current space. (Read more)

The company anticipates hiring 50 people over the next 36 months and investing $5 million in its operation. The mix of employees ranges from mechanical engineers to quality control to production managers and entry level production. (Read more)

Paragon Plastics, Inc., a custom plastic thermoforming manufacturer, is expanding its existing operations in Cocoa. (Read more)

The planned $100 million, exhibit will encompass some 65,000 square feet and is the cornerstone of the Visitor 10-year master plan. (Read more)

Florida ranks among the nation's Top 5 states for bachelor's degree holders, technical workforce, and science and engineering workforce. (Read more)

Eastern Shipbuilding has announced plans to create 500 new Bay County jobs and invest $17 million in new equipment. (Read more)

An innovative Florida Hospital surgeon has invented a new medical tool to make surgeries safer and less invasive for women. (Read more)

Wyndham Vacation Ownership - a member of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies - is expanding their presence in South Orange County with a $24.7 million capital investment and plans to hire 231 new employees. (Read more)

Intellifuel Systems, Inc., a fuel management solutions company, is expanding its operations in Titusville. (Read more)

Banah International, a sugar producer that plans to hire nearly 300 employees during the next three years, has leased more than 300,000 square feet of space in Hialeah. (Read more)

St. Anthony's celebrates the grand opening of its new emergency center and patient care tower, a $61 million, 105,000 SF addition that includes state-of-the-art technology upgrades. (Read more)

Clare Controls Inc., which provides home automation systems for the custom home audio/video industry, has launched in Manatee County and plans to add 62 employees over the next four years. (Read more)

Space Florida announces details of a sub-orbital flight program intended to stimulate market interest in microgravity research via sub-orbital and parabolic flights from Florida. (Read more)

Florida is home to 2 of America's top tech transfer programs, University of Florida (17th) and University of South Florida (20th). (Read more)

Florida schools dominated the top spots on U.S. News' first ever rankings of America's Top Online Bachelor's Degree programs. (Read more)

Enterprise Florida announces proposals for 2012 legislative session

Florida's skilled manufacturing jobs are growing thanks to small-to mid-sized businesses (read more) and Florida's innovative workforce training collaborations (read more).

Florida cities are more cost-effective locations for the growing field of medical device manufacturing when compared with most major U.S. cities, according to a study by Princeton, N.J.-based Boyd Co. (Read more)

Forbes Magazine has ranked the 12 most promising clean-energy projects selected by the DoD for 2012. (Read more)

Six Florida schools have been named top 100 public college values by Kiplinger's Personal Finance, led by the University of Florida at No. 2 and New College at No. 5. (Read more)

National Healing Corporation is growing its staff from 80 to 145 employees as it builds a state-of-the-art, high-tech training center that will serve as a global hub for wound care education where hundreds of doctors, nurses and other medical technicians will be trained monthly. (Read more)

Custom Control Solutions expands in Pensacola area

Florida ranks 3rd on P3 Update's annual list of the 10 states in the nation that offer the most attractive combination of tax incentives, crew base, talent pool, infrastructure, accessibility, significant production revenue and overall popularity among filmmakers. (Read more)