Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission - News

Promoting Metro Orlando On-The-Road

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:48:33 -0500

EDC staff were busy promoting our region from coast to coast this week. Their goal: to highlight Central Florida's advantages for business, especially in the film and technology industries. Sheena Fowler, EDC associate director of film & television, was in Miami for the National Association of Television Program Executives (NATPE) conference. She presented the region as a location for television production and met with several producers and studio heads. The EDC also partnered with Film Florida on a panel session on "TV Set in Florida" designed to showcase the advantages of production in the sunshine state. Next week, Sheena will travel to Washington, D.C. for the RealScreen Summit, the premier non-fiction film and television event to promote Central Florida as a filming location for non-fiction. Shelly Weidenhamer, EDC director of business development, was in San Francisco for SPIE Photonics West, an annual gathering of lasers, optics and photonics company executives. This specialized industry has a strong base in Central Florida. The EDC also partnered with Enterprise Florida, the University of Central Florida and the Florida Photonics Cluster in representing this important cluster. This EDC has become recognized as an industry leader in the use of social media efforts to maximize impact before, during and after conference participation and sales missions. This week's activities reflected that. In order to stand out in the crowd, the EDC scheduled tweets designed to attract the attention of festival-goers. Here are a few samples:

At #NATPE? Today @ 1:30 in the Flash Ballroom of the Versailles Tower, attend the "TV Set in Florida" panel by Film Florida

Did you know Orlando based @UCF #CREOL is one of only three Centers of Excellence in optics + photonics? http://ow.ly/8DsJ9 #PhotonicsWest

To follow the Metro Orlando Film Commission on Twitter, click here. To follow the EDC, click here.

Metro Orlando Hosts Site Selectors Guild Conference

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:46:53 -0500

The Metro Orlando community hosted the first-ever Site Selectors Guild Conference this week at the Hilton Orlando. A new professional association comprised of the world's most respected site selection consultants as voted by their peers, the Site Selectors Guild members represent an estimated 60 percent of corporate site selection projects ranging from international supply chain analysis to local business relocations - from globally-known corporations to new business startups. This was the first conference of its kind, providing a platform for networking, training and information sharing for economic development agencies across the U.S. and site selection consultants to exchange information and build business relationships. The Metro Orlando EDC and partners - Enterprise Florida, JAXUSA Partnership, Greater Ft. Lauderdale Alliance and FPL - hosted a private dinner for the Guild members at Walt Disney World Resort's Epcot as part of the conference. Understanding the importance of this group, Florida Governor Rick Scott was in attendance to express his commitment to helping site selectors and their clients do business in Florida. Rick Weddle, EDC president and CEO, provided the opening remarks for the conference and introduced Dr. Sean Snaith, UCF's director of the Institute for Economic Competitiveness, who served as the keynote speaker. Rick also participated in a panel discussion that featured economic development professionals speaking directly to the site selector guild members. Throughout the week, members of the EDC's business development team participated in conference activities and fostered relationships with this important group.

New Year, New Jobs

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 09:00:51 -0500

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 in the 300,000 square foot former Harcourt-Brace building. The company plans to hire 231 new jobs over the next three years in positions including executive management, marketing, sales and administration. The EDC has worked closely with Wyndham Vacation Ownership over the last several months, assisting them with information on our business climate and workforce; analysis of key location factors - real estate costs, labor market conditions and operating costs; and incentives facilitation. Orange County, the State of Florida, Enterprise Florida and Workforce Florida have been important partners in this successful corporate expansion project.

Creative Village Update

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 16:20:18 -0500

The process to make way for the development of Orlando's Creative Village is underway. Over the next two months, work will begin on demolishing the Amway Arena, resulting in its implosion in March. This is the first step in clearing the land for the 68-acre Creative Village - a mix of living and work spaces designed to build on the success of Orlando's digital media industry. It is envisioned to be a place for high tech companies to locate and employees and residents live, work, learn and play. The village will have a strong focus on education as it is anchored by the University of Central Florida's Center for Emerging Media and its Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy (FIEA), House of Moves motion capture studio and the Nap Ford Charter School. At its build-out, studies estimate the Creative Village will create 5,000 permanent jobs. To learn more about Creative Village, click here.

Valencia College Named Tops in the Nation

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 09:28:13 -0500

The Aspen Institute named Valencia College as the nation's best community college. Valencia was selected over 1,200 colleges around the country for the inaugural Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. The award is based on student performance and graduation data and Valencia was commended for its higher than average graduation rates, assistance for students who transfer and its success with a large, diverse population.

Engfer to Be Honored with EDC's Highest Distinction

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:33:43 -0500

The Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC) is pleased to announce that Pat Engfer, general manager of the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, will receive the 2012 James B. Greene Economic Development Award, the highest honor bestowed by the EDC. The award recognizes an individual whose work has contributed substantially to the economic prosperity of the region. First presented in 1990, the James B. Greene Economic Development Award is named in memory of the long-time Orlando business leader who was very active in the region's economic, transportation, and civic development. The Central Florida Greeneway, State Road 417, is named after him as well. Pat Engfer's involvement in the Central Florida community is unprecedented. She has not only served as the Chair of the EDC, but she's also served as Chair of Visit Orlando, Central Florida Partnership and the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association. In addition, she also serves as a board member of the University of Central Florida Rosen School of Hospitality Management and as the chair of American Heart Association's Go Red for Women. Prior to becoming the general manager of the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport in 1992, in her 35 year career with Hyatt, she worked at the Hyatt on Hilton Head Island, Hyatt Pittsburgh, Hyatt Regency Atlanta, the Watertower Hyatt and various general manager positions in Southern California. Past honors have included being named the Hyatt Hotels General Manager of the Year, induction into the UCF Hospitality Hall of Fame and as the CFHLA Hotelier of the Year. She holds a bachelor's degree from East Carolina University in Parks, Recreation and Conversation. Engfer will be honored with the award during the annual EDC Awards Dinner on Tuesday, March 6 from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. at the Amway Center in downtown Orlando.

Television Commercial Shot in Orlando

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 10:00:57 -0500

Back in October, the Metro Orlando Film Commission worked with Los Angeles-based Beef Films on a television commercial shoot for Rapala, a manufacturer of fishing lures. The commercial filmed at locations including Lake County, Earl's Barber Shop in Winter Garden, Greenwood Cemetery and downtown Orlando, even including using the offices of the EDC. This is the sixth project over the last two years in the region for executive producer John Malina. Below, John explains why he finds Central Florida an advantageous place to bring production. Watch the recently released commercial below.

Meet the Orlando Film Commissioner

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:15:12 -0500

Orlando Film Commissioner Sheena Carlisle Fowler was recently profiled in the Orlando Business Journal. Click here to read the executive profile.

Florida Tops for Film Production

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 15:10:20 -0500

The State of Florida was recognized by P3 Update Magazine's annual ranking of top states for film production. Florida ranked as the 3rd best state for the "most attractive combination of tax incentives, crew base, talent pool, infrastructure, accessibility, significant production revenue and overall popularity among filmmakers." Florida has historically been recognized as a top ten state for filmmakers but had fallen off the list in recent years. Thanks to the recently revamped Florida film incentive program, the state is back on top. In addition to the incentive program offered by the state, Metro Orlando has always been a major hub for production thanks to strong film infrastructure, experienced crew, large talent pool base, weather and variety of locations. In just the last year, a few of the productions that have filmed in Metro Orlando include: Feature films - Tooth Fairy 2, Renee, Transformers 3 and Cassadega; Television pilots - MTV's The Inbetweeners, Big Mike and Bad Mom; and Television commercials - Massey Services, Minute Maid, PepBoys, New York Life and HH Gregg. For more about filming in Orlando, visit www.filmorlando.com.

2011 Was A Year Of Change - From Managing Growth To Making Growth

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 15:00:41 -0500

by Rick L. Weddle, President and CEO, Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission This year, people from around the world faced challenging economic times, the likes of which were bigger than almost anything we've ever faced before. No one was exempt. Jobs were lost and too few new jobs were created. Entire sectors of the economy were seriously damaged. This is much more than a cyclical recession and much bigger than Central Florida. Worldwide, we've all relied too much on credit and leverage; depended too much on population driven growth and development; and got accustomed to taking orders and managing growth. We must now shift our thinking from managing growth to making growth happen. A 'new normal' began to emerge, replacing 'business as usual.' This has given rise to new opportunity. As a region, we need to develop a clear long-term version of what we want to become. Our region is already blessed with all the right ingredients for long-term success - a strong higher education system, fantastic international airports, Central Florida Research Park, Lake Nona Medical City, a skilled and talented workforce, strong regional collaboration and advantages at intersections of key industries. Over this year, the EDC has reorganized both our organization and our regional partnerships so as to create a more effective and better-focused economic development delivery system. We've tightly focused our efforts on primary business sectors that will generate quality jobs, an expanded tax base and enhanced business opportunities. Over the next few months, you'll begin to see a more streamlined approach to our key industry sectors, focusing on both where our strengths currently are and where our strengths will be. During fiscal year 2010-11, EDC clients projected to create or retain 4,033 jobs over the next three years with an average wage of $43,330, impacting $43.6 million in capital investment and 524,583 square feet of real estate. Of these projects, nearly two-thirds were local retention and expansion projects and just over one-third were companies that were recruited to the region. The bulk of these projects were from the manufacturing and distribution industry (32%), aerospace and defense (21%), business services (16%) and information technology (16%) sectors. Companies we worked with this year included: AcAe; Advanced Solar Photonics, LLC; afni, inc.; Amcor PET Packaging; Connextions, Inc.; Customed; DSCI; Industrial Lighting Products; Millenium Luxury Coaches; MYMIC LLC; Parker Software Ltd.; Raptor Technology Group; Row Sham Bow, Inc.; SAIC; Team Cymru, Inc.; Tecport Optics, Inc.; TravelCLICK; Wheeled Coach Industries, Inc. We also had a very busy film and television production year with 434 days of production, including production of feature film Tooth Fairy 2, MTV's The Inbetweeners and plenty of television commercial work - our region's bread and butter for filming. We've set our goals for 2012 to be more aggressive. We are aiming to work with companies who will create or retain 4,050 jobs over a three year time period, creating a capital investment of $120.8 million and for 500 days of film and television production. During this next year, we will work with our partners at all levels - state, regional and local - to improve our competitiveness now and in the future as a profitable location for new and expanding businesses. This includes making sure we have a favorable tax and regulatory climate as well as strategic investments in needed physical infrastructure to support a company's top line growth such as transportation and education. Overall, both the EDC and the Metro Orlando region are extremely well positioned to face the challenges ahead and, importantly, capitalize on the opportunities they present. If we as a region and as an organization make the right choices, do the right things and sustain the needed investments, the path ahead looks very bright. I look forward to working with you collectively and individually in support of this end - and encourage each of you to become even more involved with the EDC in the year going forward. Here's to a prosperous 2012!

bioOrlando: Moving Beyond an Idea

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:00:09 -0500

On Thursday, December 8, the EDC will officially re-launch bioOrlando as a strategic advisory committee to the EDC. Operating autonomously for the last four years, bioOrlando will become the "Central Chapter" of BioFlorida, the statewide trade association for the bioscience industry. While the two organizations have frequently partnered together over the years for events or to push support on legislative items, membership in one did not equate to membership in the other. This new structure works to connect the dots so that members of bioOrlando experience a broader statewide impact as members of BioFlorida. Join us this Thursday, December 8, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., in the auditorium at the Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute at Lake Nona for an evening of networking and learning as we reconnect. You will hear from Orlando's life sciences leaders, including Leslie Molony, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute; William Warren, Ph.D., Sanofi-Pasteur VaxDesign Campus; Dom Meffe, Triad Isotopes; and Philip Arlen, Ph.D, Pandora Genomics. The cost for EDC investors and bioOrlando members is $15 and $40 for non-members. Click here to register today.

Region in the Spotlight as the National Center for Simulation

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:01:17 -0500

Each year during this time, the eyes of the world's simulation and training industry turn to Metro Orlando for the annual Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference (I/ITSEC), the world's largest modeling, simulation and training conference. Nearly 20,000 attendees from over 57 countries come to Orlando to see and learn about the most recent advances in this important industry sector. Orlando is widely known as the "national center for simulation" for several reasons:

- home to the nation's military procurement simulation commands;
- over 150 simulation companies;
- employing more than 12,500 Central Floridians; and
- a Gross Regional Product of $3 billion.

The significance of this industry to our local economy cannot be overstated, and the EDC works closely with community partners to ensure a strong presence at the annual I/ITSEC trade show, which is held at the Orange County Convention Center. Once again, the EDC partnered with the Orlando-headquartered National Center for Simulation, The University of Central Florida's Institute for Simulation & Training (IST), Florida High Tech Corridor Council and others to feature Metro Orlando's assets through a booth on the trade show floor. Demonstrations included hands-on experiences from Florida Hospital's DaVinci Robot and the latest research from IST featuring distracted driving simulators and new uses for mobile apps. In addition, the EDC's business development team conducted several meetings each day with companies considering expansion opportunities.

Increased Collaboration the Key to Economic Recovery

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:33:31 -0500

Lake County's Office of Economic Development and Tourism hosted their first-ever Economic Development Summit at the Mission Inn Resort & Club located in Howey-in-the-Hills on Monday, November 14. Attended by over 250 business and community leaders, the day-long event featured nationally renowned speakers who presented best practices in workforce development, economic development, site selection and strategic planning. While much of the day focused on the economic realities facing the region, nation and world right now, Scott Blakenship, director of Lake County's Office of Economic Development, emphasized that increased collaboration and partnership is the key to successful economic recovery. Dr. Charles Mojock, president of Lake-Sumter Community College and EDC board member, served as the master of ceremonies for the event designed to lead Lake County into a successful 2012. Speakers included: EDC President and CEO Rick Weddle; Jay A. Garner, Garner Economics, LLC; Debra Lyons, ACT; Sean Snaith, Ph.D., University of Central Florida; Ed Morrison, Center for Regional Development at Purdue University; and B. Thomas Mancuso, SIOR, Batavia Industrial Center and real estate professional.

Making Global Connections

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:17:35 -0500

As the world's leading real estate executives and professional site consultants gathered in Atlanta last week for the annual CoreNet Global Summit, the EDC's Declan Reiley, vice president of business development, was there to build connections and identify project prospects. In addition to the conference, the EDC - along with counterparts at Enterprise Florida, the state's economic development agency, and other EDC's from around the state - hosted a private gathering of key corporate advisors for networking and an "Iron Chef" cooking competition and dinner. And Gloria LeQuang, director of business development for the EDC, was recently in Canada for the Montreal International Game Summit. Home to one of the world's largest clusters of digital media companies, Montreal and Orlando have an existing relationship thanks to past EDC missions that helped to open doors for business between the regions. In addition to working the tradeshow floor, the EDC also met with several companies in collaboration with Enterprise Florida's Canadian office and presented at the Quebec-Florida Chamber of Commerce reception dedicated to "Doing Business in Florida and Orlando." These are important efforts on behalf of our region. Site selection advisors are primary project generators for the economic development industry and CoreNet Global's more than 7,000 members manage over $1.2-trillion in real estate and workplace assets. The Montreal International Game Summit provided a good opportunity for the EDC to follow up on an agreement to do more business together with Canada that stemmed from the July visit from Canada's Minister of State, Science and Technology Gary Goodyear where he met with Florida Lieutenant Governor Jennifer Carroll.

President Clinton Praises Orlando's Simulation Industry

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:36:04 -0500

Twice this week, former President Bill Clinton has been on national television shows praising Orlando's simulation industry. His first appearance was on Meet the Press where President Clinton highlighted bright spots in the U.S., including Orlando's simulation industry. (Comments are around the 2 minute mark.)

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

On Thursday, President Clinton appeared on Morning Joe and again touted our region's success in the simulation industry and the partnership mentality within Metro Orlando. (Comments are around the 5:50 mark.)

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Celebrating Bright Ideas, Creative Solutions & Pioneering Companies

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 07:53:48 -0500

The Metro Orlando EDC's annual celebration of innovation took place last week at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. The William C. Schwartz Industry Innovation Awards honor companies from throughout the region for unique practices, products or ideas; and for the impact these dynamic companies have on our local economy. The event is named for Bill Schwartz, an iconic tech industry leader whose innovative ideas pioneered change in the economic landscape of Central Florida. In his spirit, tabletop exhibits sponsored by members of the Manufacturers Association of Central Florida, a close-working EDC partner, showcased "made in Central Florida" products and technology that are helping to drive our economy today. This year's program was headlined by a world-class creative talent, who happens to make his home in Central Florida: Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative for Universal Parks & Resorts. In his 23 years with Universal, Woodbury and his team have created some of the most highly-acclaimed entertainment experiences known to the world today, including: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, King Kong 360 3-D, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, Shrek 4-D, The Incredible Hulk...and that is just the tip of the iceberg! As keynote speaker, Woodbury discussed the magic behind the making of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, shared his own perspective on innovation, and provided a preview of coming attractions at Universal Orlando. David Pace, EDC Chairman of the Board, and Rick Weddle, president and CEO, then introduced our award winners, who represented companies of all shapes and sizes and from throughout the Orlando region. "These are," said Weddle, "...companies who have defied the odds, excelled in their fields, and taken advantage of the spirit of creativity that makes this a great place to do business." Following presentation of nine EDC awards, the Florida High Tech Corridor Council presented their own Award for Innovation. Randy Berridge, president of FHTCC, introduced his organization's fifth annual award winner: sanofi pasteur - VaxDesign campus. And the winners are... SPIRIT OF INNOVATION: Not only did the highly-anticipated opening of Universal Orlando's The Wizarding World of Harry Potter drive strong attendance gains and worldwide news about the Central Florida attraction, it led to the creation of 783 new jobs in our community and is credited with helping to lead our region's number one industry out of recession. CITY OF ORLANDO: Based in one of Orlando's Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Zones, E.R. Precision Optical recently invested over $2 million to create an in-house system that allows them to grow germanium and silicon crystals - critical materials used for night vision in targeting and surveillance applications by the U.S. Military and Department of Homeland Security. This company is the only U.S. based manufacturing company to supply these critical materials, keeping important manufacturing jobs right here in the U.S. Nemours has taken an innovative approach to ensuring that their Orlando hospital is built and staffed with its patients and their families in mind through the creation of the "Family Advisory Council" - made up of local parents, family members of patients, and community partners with experience in pediatric healthcare. Through this strategy, which is believed to be a first-ever approach, Nemours is confident that they have taken every step to ensure that the facility they build and the people they hire reflect and share the values most important to the people it serves. LAKE COUNTY: WattNext, Inc. is helping revolutionize solar power with the development of a revolutionary solar array shade structure called "Watt Tree", which conveniently connects solar power to electric vehicles and the smart grid. The long term goal of this "green" company is to help Florida reduce its $100 million a day reliance on suppliers of energy from outside the state and to help find practical alternative energy solutions. In 2007, the Tavares City Council approved the design and construction of an $8 million marina project along the waterfront in downtown Tavares as part of its comprehensive master plan to designate the city as "America's Seaplane City". This investment has subsequently led to the opening of 26 new businesses in downtown Tavares ... including Progressive Aerodyne, the manufacturer of SeaRey light-sport seaplane aircraft on the city's Lake Idamere. ORANGE COUNTY: For over 50 years, Lockheed Martin has designed, developed and created combat systems here in Central Florida at their Missiles and Fire Control and Global Training and Logistics divisions. While this leading company is responsible for thousands of innovations in the course of their history, two of their most recent developments, are the catalyst for this year's award - the Prepar3D system and the Human Universal Load Carrier. Both directly benefit our nation's warfighters. n-Space, Inc. is an independent, high-quality game developer that creates original games for some of the world's biggest publishers, including - Activision, Disney Interactive and Nintendo. This local company has produced some of the biggest brands - Call of Duty, TRON, Star Wars, Hannah Montana, and others - for game platforms including Nintendo DS, Wii, Playstation 3, Xbox360 and PSP. SEMINOLE COUNTY: Named after the x's and o's in a playbook, Lake Mary-based XOS Digital provides digital coaching strategies for professional sports teams from the NFL, NBA and NCAA. In addition, XOS Digital has become a nationwide sports digital media company that allows 480 sports partners, representing more than 900 teams, conferences and leagues, to directly connect with their fans through mobile apps, tablet apps, internet-enabled TV, games-on-demand, and more. With emphasis on the three T's - critical Thinking, Teamwork and Technology - SCPS has developed programs designed to prepare graduates for careers in industries targeted by the Metro Orlando EDC - such as modeling & simulation, optics & photonics, digital media, life science and clean tech. This focus has led to partnerships with regional giants such as Symantec, Lockheed Martin and Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, who rely on the talent being nurtured by those programs to fuel their own workforce. FLORIDA HIGH TECH CORRIDOR COUNCIL: Orlando-based sanofi pasteur VaxDesign developed a "clinical trial in a test tube" that is able to predict human responses to pharmaceuticals and vaccines much better than existing approaches. This artificial immune system - called MIMIC - was part of a Rapid Vaccine Assessment Program with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency that led to VaxDesign being acquired by global vaccine leader Sanofi Pasteur in 2010. Many thanks to our sponsors for their support, which made this event possible: Airtran, Akerman PA, Baker Hostetler, Bank of America, BBT - J. Rolfe Davis, BlueCross BlueShield, Bright House, Chase, Electronic Arts, Fairwinds Credit Union, Fifth Third Bank, Florida's Blood Centers, Gray Robinson, Greenberg Traurig, Lowndes Drosdick Doster Kantor & Reed PA, New Broad Street, NIIT Technologies, Orlando Business Journal, Orlando Sentinel, OUC, Progress Energy, Wells Fargo and WFTV.

Local Company Emerges as a National Leader in the Solar Energy Market

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 13:30:20 -0500

Responding to opportunities in the burgeoning solar energy market, Lake Mary-based BlueChip Energy, LLC (BCE) has created over 180 jobs since 2009. The company is on track to reach over 500 new jobs within two to three years and increase the size of their existing Seminole County facility. The expansion is attributed to growth of the company's manufacturing subsidiary, Advanced Solar Photonics (ASP), as well as its development of utility scale solar farm projects in Central Florida. In 2011, ASP increased its PV solar panel manufacturing capacity to 100MW, making it one of the largest producers in North America. Here in Central Florida, ASP is providing solar modules for the Rinehart Solar Farm in Lake Mary. Its rooftop solar plant of 1.2 MW makes the Rinehart project the largest rooftop solar plant in the State of Florida. BCE is also developing the 40 MW Sorrento Solar Farm in Lake County. The EDC has worked closely with this company for a number of years. Most recently, EDC project manager Tracy Turk assisted the ASP manufacturing division with various incentive applications, including sales tax exemptions on utilities and manufacturing equipment, financing alternatives and a Quick Response Training (QRT) grant in the amount of $645,398. BlueChip Energy is a fully integrated solar PV power generator, occupying all segments of the solar power value chain - from the manufacturing of solar panels and components, to the sale of turnkey solar power plants, to the sale of solar electricity to utility, commercial and residential customers. It's manufacturing division, ASP, is globally-recognized for manufacturing, research and development of crystalline silicon solar photovoltaic (PV) panels for utility, commercial and residential applications.

Airline Magazine Dubs Orlando "Innovation City"

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 11:21:21 -0500

"From tourism to tech to medical mecca, O-town is where great ideas grow." Thus says Delta Sky in the magazine's September issue, which premiered on all Delta flights last week. The article, the newest in the magazine's City Profile series, features the diverse industry sectors and innovative companies that drive this region's economy. Local celebrities, including Mayors Teresa Jacobs and Buddy Dyer and actress Cheryl Hines, are quoted. The region's emerging high-tech industry is showcased. And the magazine's popular "Native & Newcomer" section features Tupperware Brands Corporation and the Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute. The EDC's public relations team - along with our partners at Visit Orlando, UCF and the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority - worked closely with Delta Sky publishers on the development of this profile. Look for a copy onboard Delta flights this month. For an electronic version, click here.

International Company Selects Orlando as U.S. Headquarters

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 15:00:07 -0500

Today, World Duty Free, Inc., a global leader in airport duty free retail, announced Orlando as its U.S. headquarters. World Duty Free is part of the Italian-based Autogrill Group, the world's foremost provider of food and beverage and retail services for travelers, with over 350 national and international brands in its portfolio, spanning 37 countries and operating on major motorways, airports and railway stations worldwide. The decision to locate its U.S. headquarters in Orlando was decided after an extensive national search of major U.S. duty free markets, including Atlanta. Major factors that drove World Duty Free to choose Orlando included the region's status as a world-class destination, its convenient location for international business and its collaborative business environment. EDC President and CEO Rick L. Weddle said, "We are happy that World Duty Free has decided to locate its headquarters in Orlando. We look forward to supporting them in any way we can and are pleased they have chosen to expand their involvement in the community by becoming investors in the EDC." World Duty Free currently employs more than 100 corporate and retail employees in the region, expects to hire approximately 5 to 10 new jobs at their Orlando headquarters as well as dozens of retail positions for each retail store opened, spurring economic growth and new jobs for the region.

Local Companies Learn to do Business with the U.S. Department of Defense

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:41:51 -0500

Over 600 small business leaders gathered at Rosen Shingle Creek on Monday for the Small Business Defense Procurement Summit. This Department of Defense event, hosted in partnership with the City of Orlando and the Office of U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, was designed to help small businesses learn how to do engage with the U.S. Department of Defense and other federal contracting agencies. The Federal government procures over $530 billion in goods and services on an annual basis. This event, which was only the second held nationwide, stemmed from a White House initiative directing federal agencies, such as the Department of Defense, to communicate contract procurement opportunities to small businesspeople throughout the U.S. In addition to Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Senator Bill Nelson, other speakers included: Cecilia Muñoz, Deputy Assistant to the President and Director of White House Intergovernmental Affairs; and Dr. Ashton B. Carter, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology & Logistics. The afternoon agenda featured business matchmaking sessions between small businesses and major government contractors and officials.

New Grant Program for Tech Companies in Central Florida

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 09:00:48 -0500

A new grant program aimed at assisting Central Florida-based technology companies is now available. IDEA Fund Partners, a North Carolina-based venture capital firm, is offering the FL IDEA program in partnership with the Community Foundation of Central Florida, Rollins Crummer School of Business, Orlando, Inc., and the Metro Orlando EDC. Based on the already successful NC IDEA program which has awarded over $2.1 million in grants to 57 companies in North Carolina, the Florida IDEA grants program awards up to $50,000 per recipient. The funds help to support business plan research and development, reduce risk of early failure of companies and advance projects to the point where the company is ready for angel or venture capital investment. In addition to the funds, recipients will also receive mentoring from successful entrepreneurs and experienced investors; use of MBA interns; access to attorneys, accountants and marketing consultants; public recognition and access to growth capital. Applications are currently being accepted. The deadline for applying is Friday, August 26. For more information about Florida IDEA grant, visit www.floridaidea.org or contact grants@floridaidea.org.

Rewriting the Script

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:20:10 -0500

With the new addition of IDEAS Insert Stage and recently opened Post Audio Mix Room, Orlando's film infrastructure is growing tremendously. Already home to such assets as Universal Studios' soundstages and backlot, Full Sail University's newly expanded backlot, House of Moves motion capture studio, film, television and commercial crews in Central Florida have plenty of resources at their disposal. The region is even more attractive as a destination for production because of the state's film and entertainment incentive program. The entertainment incentives, in addition to Orlando's quality crews, production facilities, and diverse landscape, make Central Florida a competitive location for the film and entertainment industry.

Orlando says "Ni Hao" to China Delegation

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:00:57 -0500

Metro Orlando welcomed a delegation from Jiaxing, China on Thursday. The group of government officials traveled from this medium-sized city in southeast China to explore possibilities for bilateral cooperation in investment, trade, R&D, education, and infrastructure development between Jiaxing and Orlando. EDC president and CEO, Rick Weddle, together with representatives from Enterprise Florida, met with the delegation in an executive session to provide an overview of economic development opportunities in the State of Florida and Metro Orlando. Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs kicked off the community program, officially welcoming the group to our region. Following Mayor Jacobs' remarks, members of the Chinese delegation presented to a group of over 100 local business people - highlighting opportunities in the medical device, aerospace, digital media and energy industries with Jiaxing. The EDC worked closely with the World Affairs Council of Central Florida in the planning of this event. Other partners included Enterprise Florida, National Entrepreneur Center, Orlando, Inc., Florida-China Association, Manufacturers Association of Central Florida and VisitOrlando.

All Aboard! SunRail Construction is Full Speed Ahead

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 13:30:09 -0500

Only a few weeks after the official announcement that the SunRail commuter rail system was approved to move forward, construction has begun. At a community celebration last week, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood kicked off construction of SunRail at the site of Florida Hospital's future station. Secretary LaHood, Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff and Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Ananth Prasad were in attendance to sign the Full Funding Grant Agreement. Congressman John Mica, Congresswoman Corrine Brown, City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs and Florida Hospital President and COO Lars Houmann were also on hand to recognize the regional collaboration that made SunRail possible. SunRail will open in two phases. The first phase, scheduled to open in 2014, will run 31 miles from DeBary to Sand Lake Road. The second phase, to open in 2016, will run from DeLand to Poinciana. The EDC has been an active advocate for SunRail over the years, serving on the core strategy team along with numerous other community partners.

Orlando Tops the Charts

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 02:15:06 -0500

Orlando has received a great deal of praise nationwide lately. The region has been named a "top comeback city" and the city "leading Florida out of economic recession". Here are a few of the recent accolades Orlando has received: Orlando is "leading Florida out of the economic recession" and "one of the fastest growing cities in the country" according to Reuters. Kiplinger named Orlando as a top "comeback city". The article recognizes cities who are seeing an "upward bounce" in their economy. Forbes named Orlando as one of the "best cities for minority entrepreneurs" and one of "the next big boom towns in the U.S." Orlando was ranked the top U.S. large city for business friendliness by Foreign Direct Investment Magazine in the annual American Cities of the Future issue. Author William J. Holstein named Orlando as one of nine communities in the U.S. that will bring about the next wave of economic growth, in his book The Next American Economy. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recognized Florida last month as the top state in the nation for workforce training programs in its Enterprising States report. For more Metro Orlando rankings, click here.

One of the Largest Solar Farms in the U.S. Coming to Lake County

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:00:19 -0500

BlueChip Energy, LLC a fully-integrated solar energy provider for utility, commercial, and residential applications, recently received approval for rezoning of the 201 acres of land it purchased for the development of a 40 megawatt solar farm in Lake County. This facility will be the largest privately owned solar farm in the State of Florida and one of the largest in the United States. The EDC facilitated a meeting with Blue Chip and Lake County to take advantage of their fast-track permitting. Dimitri Nikitin, president of BlueChip Energy said, "We were pleased with Lake County's fast-track permitting process. Lake County was diligent, thorough, and their review was comprehensive. We were able to move through their rezoning process in a couple of months as compared to a year as I have seen in other areas." Power generated from the solar plant will displace over 25,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually and generate an estimated 64 million kilowatt hours per year - enough to fulfill the average annual electricity needs for approximately 8,000 typical Florida homes. The power produced will be sold to Progress Energy Florida under a Power Purchase Agreement.

Orlando Welcomes Avianca and Former Colombian President Uribe

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 15:30:51 -0500

Connections with the nation of Colombia grew stronger last week with two milestone events taking place. Avianca, the world's second oldest airline, initiated its inaugural service into Orlando International Airport from Bogatá, Colombia. This additional service brings to 5900 the total number of new weekly international seats into our market for the summer of 2011. On the heels of Avianca's arrival, former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe Vélez travelled to Orlando to encourage increased trade between our markets. Following an official welcome to the community by EDC President and CEO Rick Weddle, the hugely popular former President, who was the first in his country's history to serve two terms, spoke at length to a group of over 100 local businesspeople about the economic development benefits of the pending free trade agreement between Colombia and the United States. The President was followed by Orlando Commissioner Tony Ortiz, who provided an overview of our market to the 45-plus Colombian businesspeople travelling with the president. The EDC worked closely with event organizers - which included KEP Brokers, ESSE Consultores, MPC Financial Strategies, the Law Firm of Colombo, Hurd & Brandt, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando - in the planning of this event. The opening of direct flights on Avianca between Bogatá and Orlando, along with high level government and business interest in trade and joint ventures, bodes well for increased business ties between our markets.

Florida + Canada = Science + Technology

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 11:01:47 -0500

Florida Lieutenant Governor Jennifer Carroll and Minister Gary Goodyear, Canada's Minister of State, Science and Technology, visited Central Florida last week as part of their ongoing exploration of how Florida and Canada can collaborate in the realms of science and technology. The Metro Orlando EDC partnered with the University of Central Florida to help answer that question. The dignitaries were hosted for a tour of the Central Florida Research Park and introduced to a variety of military and economic development leaders who described the depth, strength and potential of this region's technology industry. Following the tour, Minister of State Goodyear indicated that he understood the potential of cross-border partnerships, noting, "Canada and Florida can create jobs and growth by working together to help researchers get their ideas out of the labs and into the marketplace." Lieutenant Governor Carroll was also impressed. In her remarks she commented on Florida's future in these realms, saying: "Science and technology will be part of the new frontier of Florida's economy and the future of the Florida-Canada business partnership." During her visit here, the Lieutenant Governor also met with members of Team Orlando and with leaders from private businesses in the defense industry.

Mayor Jacobs Invites Business From Puerto Rico

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 13:51:52 -0500

Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs traveled to Puerto Rico recently with a delegation of 12 local executives. The goal of this mission, which was organized by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando, was to promote business between our markets. (Pictured left: Mayor Jacobs is joined by Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce President Raul Gayá for the ribbon cutting ceremony kicking off Puerto Rico Eje Empresarial Convención 2011.) Through a seminar entitled "Doing Business in Orlando and Central Florida" the Mayor focused on our region's business-friendly environment and emerging opportunities for growing companies. She also met directly with executives of companies that expressed interest in marketing brands from the island in Central Florida. The Mayor was officially welcomed to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico by Governor Luis Fortuño. She also participated in the opening of the Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce's annual conference - Puerto Rico Eje Empresarial Convención 2011.

Impact of SunRail on economic development

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 14:39:47 -0500

"We are thrilled that SunRail has received its final approval from Governor Rick Scott," said Rick L. Weddle, President and CEO of the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission. "Beyond the thousands of jobs and billions in economic impact this project will bring, it will also be a tremendous asset for the region in terms of economic development. When businesses are looking to expand or relocate, the number one thing they look for is highway accessibility and transportation issues. Having the SunRail system in place will allow Metro Orlando to more effectively compete for the jobs of tomorrow."

Pace Named FEDC Volunteer of the Year

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 09:01:30 -0500

Economic development professionals from throughout the state of Florida gathered at the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport in Orlando last week for the annual conference of the Florida Economic Development Council (FEDC). Themed "Introducing the NEW Florida," the conference drew over 200 participants to discuss the latest trends, challenges and best practices in economic development. Topics ranged from global competitiveness and talent supply chain development to water quality and energy efficiency issues. A highlight of the annual conference is presentation of FEDC's prestigious Robert L. McLaughlin Award. Last week, that award was presented to David Pace, CEO of New Broad Street Properties and current EDC Chairman of the Board. This award recognizes extraordinary contributions by a volunteer that directly impact a community's economic development efforts. Based on that definition, there is no more deserving recipient than David. For the past nine years, in addition to running his own business, David has been a member of the EDC Board of Directors and a champion for regional economic development. He accepted a leadership role on the EDC Board during one of our nation's (and his industry's) toughest economic times, and was instrumental in helping to lead and develop a new Leadership Charter for the organization. In September 2010, upon the departure of Ray Gilley, David not only took over as Chairman of the Board, he stepped in to personally take the helm of this organization as acting CEO - on a temporary, volunteer, unpaid basis - providing direct, daily oversight until the hiring of new EDC CEO Rick Weddle in March 2011. Congratulations to David Pace on this well-deserved recognition, and sincere thanks for his many contributions to the Metro Orlando EDC and the entire Central Florida region.

Performing Arts Center To Break Ground

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 15:25:09 -0500

On Thursday, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts will officially break ground, followed by community open houses on Friday and Saturday. The performing arts center plans to develop a mixed-use urban arts center with three main theaters, educational facilities and a public performance plaza. The performing arts center will be Central Florida's destination of choice for arts, cultural and entertainment programming. It will serve our diverse community by educating and nurturing artists, arts organizations, audiences and students throughout the region and the state of Florida. The EDC has been involved with the performing arts center since the beginning in helping to garner public support for the community venues plan and conducted the official economic impact study of the venues with the assistance of Convention, Sports & Leisure International. For more information, visit www.drphillipscenter.org.

Florida's New Economic Development System Signed into Law

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 08:00:38 -0500

Governor Rick Scott signed legislation this week that creates Florida's new Department of Economic Opportunity and significantly expands responsibilities of the state's economic development arm, Enterprise Florida. The stated goal of the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) is to "develop a single, statewide strategic plan to address the promotion of business formation, expansion, recruitment, and retention in order to create jobs for all regions of the state. The DEO is also charged with streamlining the economic development incentive application and award process. While the new structure is still being finalized, and additional adaptations are likely, the above chart reflects the major changes engendered by this legislation: * Enterprise Florida retains its private sector board. The Governor chairs that board. The board appoints the "Secretary of Commerce" who leads Enterprise Florida. * Space Florida will retain special independent district status and the appointed members of the EFI Board will also serve as the Board of Directors for Space Florida. * VISIT Florida will come under the umbrella of the Enterprise Florida Board, but will operate as a specialized division of EFI doing business as VISIT Florida. * Workforce Florida maintains independent status, as required under current law. This second chart (below) reflects additional consolidation directly within Enterprise Florida: * The Black Business Investment Board (BBIB) and Florida Sports Foundation are merged into EFI and related departments of Minority Business Development and Sports Industry Development are created. What does this change at the state level mean for Central Florida? The Metro Orlando EDC will continue to support and work closely with Enterprise Florida as our state's lead economic development agency. Our president, Rick Weddle, serves on the Enterprise Florida Stakeholder Council and many of our staff are actively involved with EFI programs and working groups. We welcome the Governor's and the Legislature's focus on job creation priorities, as well as their commitment to streamlining incentive and other state processes that will reduce barriers for companies doing business in, or interested in doing business in, Florida. All efforts to increase Florida's competitiveness for business attraction and retention is good news for our organization, our community and our citizens.

On-The-Road Building Connections

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 13:00:43 -0500

EDC representatives have been on-the-road this month, spreading the word about Metro Orlando as a prime business destination.

Cologne, Germany - The EDC's Gloria LeQuang attended the ITEC Conference, a major defense industry gathering, along with Team Orlando representatives from the Army, Navy, National Center for Simulation and others of our leading community partners. She spoke to companies from across the globe about the benefits of doing business in Metro Orlando, the nation's leading hub for simulation and related industries.

Los Angeles, California - The EDC's Jennifer Pennypacker was in LA for the Produced By Conference in association with AFCI Locations. While there, she met with producers, directors and other film industry leaders to tout the newly revamped film legislation recently signed into law by Governor Rick Scott. The revised incentive - effective July 1 - sends a signal that the State of Florida is making a long term investment in infrastructure necessary to support the film industry.

Montreal and Toronto, Canada - The EDC's Brian Walters traveled with Florida Governor Rick Scott last week on an Enterprise Florida business development trip to Canada. Brian presented to over 20 companies, representing industries including Digital Media, IT/Software Development and Clean Technology, in a "speed dating" format.

Software Translation Company Expands in Orange County

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 08:30:45 -0500

Maitland-headquartered AcAe Software, LLC has announced plans to expand their Central Florida operations, a move expected to create 93 new positions within the next three years. The company provides high-tech design, consulting, and support services for companies using electronic design automation software. The EDC first worked with AcAe on relocation of their corporate headquarters from England to Maitland in 1994. Since then, the company has enjoyed steady growth and has diversified its product and service offerings. Most recently, the EDC's business development team assisted AcAe with a Qualified Target Industry (QTI) grant request, which has been approved by Orange County, the City of Maitland and the State of Florida. AcAe's proprietary "Universal, Neutral Format Translator" helps computer programs talk to each other and work together more easily. One catalyst for the company's recently announced expansion has been the nationwide move to streamline electronic health care records; AcAe's Software Translator, named DART™, simplifies and streamlines the migration of electronic design data across multiple platforms. The company's services also include electronic design automation consulting and training, and its clients include multinational companies worldwide.

Securing the Homeland

Fri, 27 May 2011 13:38:40 -0500

A partnership between the local Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Valencia Community College (VCC) and the Department of Homeland Security has formed to provide TSA employees with college level classes about homeland security. The TSA Associates Program premiered last August with 48 students and continued to expand in the spring with 24 new students. The program runs concurrently with the traditional Valencia schedule, but the classes are offered conveniently on airport property. Currently, 90 percent of the TSA workforce does not have a college degree. The long-term goal for the program is to offer a degree in homeland security, but the next step in the process will likely be a certificate of specialization available to TSA employees and air marshals who complete the required courses. There are many long-term benefits for TSA employees with college experience, including increasing their competiveness for promotions. For more, read Securing the Homeland from Texture Magazine.

Expanded International Air Service to Colombia

Mon, 23 May 2011 08:45:13 -0500

The world's second oldest Airline - Avianca, a member of the Avianca/TACA Alliance - has announced plans to initiate direct, non-stop service between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Bogota International Airport (BOG). Beginning this summer, the new service will connect the two destinations with service four times per week. This expanded service is good for both business and tourist travel between our markets. Approximately 70,500 Colombian's live in the Central Florida area. With service now available on Avianca, passengers will have access to numerous Central and South American markets including Caracas, Lima, Quito, Guayaquil, Sao Paulo, Santiago de Chile, Buenos Aires, Cali, Cartagena, and Medellin. Avainca is one of four airlines who have recently announced that they will initiate operations at Orlando International Airport this summer. The others are Air France, Caribbean Airlines, and Edelweiss Air. Altogether this increased international traffic brings with it an estimated local economic impact of nearly $90 million. Orlando International Airport has more non-stop domestic service than any other airport in Florida and offers service to 25 non-stop international destinations.

Orlando-based IT company helps reduce wait times at doctor's offices and more

Fri, 20 May 2011 15:22:43 -0500

Who doesn't hate waiting at the doctor's office just to check-in? One downtown Orlando-based IT company is revolutionizing the patient experience to make better use of mobile devices, such as iPads, to speed up patient check-in times by up to 80 percent. NIIT Healthcare Technologies is introducing the second version of MASH (Manage, Analyze, Sustain, Harness), their innovative collaborative framework that connects patients and healthcare providers. This version of MASH:

Is smart device-friendly. MASH 2 will allow patients to securely pre-register for doctor or hospital visits from almost any mobile device, including iPhones, iPads, laptops and PCs from home, work or while traveling.

Offers secure authentication. MASH 2 will include advanced security features that identify patients by fingerprint or palm scanners. Researchers at NIIT Healthcare Technologies are working on non-intrusive methods that can actually read a person's DNA through palm scanning, ensuring the utmost in patient privacy.

Offers high-end interactivity. MASH 2 will offer interactive tools that include a 3-D image of the human body, allowing patients to point to the areas where they are experiencing pain or injuries. This is especially useful for children or non-English speaking adults who will be able to show where they are in pain.

NIIT Healthcare Technologies, winner of Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission's William C. Schwartz Industry Innovation Award, is part of NIIT Technologies, a global IT solutions provider with more than 5,000 employees.

I.T. Company to Relocate HQ from Chicago to Seminole County

Fri, 20 May 2011 14:46:33 -0500

Team Cymru, a specialized Internet security research firm that helps organizations identify and eradicate criminal activity online and in their networks, announced this week that they will relocate their corporate headquarters from Illinois to Metro Orlando. EDC business development representatives Brian Walters and Tracy Turk were in Chicago late last week, along with EDC board member Bill Vogel, superintendent of Seminole County Public Schools. They met with the company's 25 headquarter employees and their families, most of whom will relocate to Central Florida. Company operations are expected to be up and running here by August 1st, with the move completed by the end of the year. Negotiations are underway for a location in Seminole County. Relocating with Team Cymru will be a talented team of individuals who have experience in systems development, IP network engineering, security architecture, systems and network administration, network and hard drive forensics, malware analysis, penetration testing, and a variety of other areas. Together, this Team delivers some of best security insight and services in the industry, including many no-cost services offered for the benefit of the Internet community. In addition to its headquarter employees, the company also has researchers based in the UK; Poland; New Zealand; Australia; Arizona; Washington D.C.; New York; Missouri; and California. The company has announced plans to hire an additional six employees immediately, and expect to make additional hires within the next two years. In fact, it is the ability to recruit the skilled UNIX system engineering and development talent that attracted Team Cymru to this market. "We've assured our clients of two things," says company CEO Rob Thomas. "In the short term, we can and will accomplish this move with no disruption to their or our business. In the longer term, the move will permit our company to grow. We are confident that the Orlando market gives us access to a plethora of candidates with the skills we need, as well as the ability to recruit and retain the best and brightest talent." Though Team Cymru specializes in sophisticated computer security applications, they say that the most frequent question they answer is this: "What is Cymru?". Pronounced "kum-ree", it is the Welsh word for the country of Wales. The company name, along with its distinctive dragon logo, is a nod to two of the Team Cymru founders, who have strong ties to Wales.

Resources for Small Business Expand

Tue, 17 May 2011 13:45:13 -0500

From Walt Disney to Glen L. Martin, Metro Orlando has a long history of entrepreneurial activity and is among top locations for innovative companies and entrepreneurs. This week during National Small Business Week, a one-of-a-kind Central Florida resource (and one of only two such centers in the nation) moved into a new 22,000-square-foot home at Orlando Fashion Square Mall, ensuring easy access and plentiful parking for those taking advantage of its services - a one-stop center for small businesses and entrepreneurs. The move also comes with a new name: National Entrepreneur Center (NEC). Since its start eight years ago, the center and its service providers have been involved in $125 million worth of loans, coached 70,000 businesses and assisted in more than 700 new business launches. Designed to provide a single location where small businesses can access a variety of business resources, technology, research tools and professional mentors, some of the services available to your business through the NEC include: one-on-one business coaching, low-cost seminars, networking events, access to software and business resources, certification assistance for minority-owned businesses, connections to procurement opportunities, marketing and publicity counseling, and much more.

Author Touts Orlando as a Model for Recovery

Mon, 16 May 2011 13:44:21 -0500

Former BusinessWeek columnist and author Bill Holstein was the speaker at last week's gathering of the EDC's CEO Roundtable. Holstein was in Orlando to promote his newly-released book, The Next American Economy: Blueprint for a Real Recovery, which profiles communities across the country that, he suggests, will drive future innovation and generate economic growth. The book features Orlando as one of nine American cities that reflect a critical factor necessary to America's economic recovery: creativity. Launching off of a 2010 IBM poll of 1,500 CEOs from across the globe that cited creativity as the #1 "leadership competency" of the future, Holstein suggests that "idea factories" found in places like Orlando breed new technologies that build up an entrepreneurial ecosystem. The system, in turn, creates clusters. And industry clusters, he contends, are what sets America apart from other countries. Holstein's book is the result of 30 years of studying how wealth is created and innovation nurtured around the world ... and how nations, states and localities use innovation to generate jobs. The chapter dedicated to Orlando spotlights this region's simulation industry, focusing on the people, companies, organizations, institutions and initiatives driving the industry. He sums up his assessment of Orlando's economy by suggesting that Orlando and its diverse industry base offer "a creative stew" that is "showing the way to the rest of Florida and other Sunbelt states." This accolade complements several others that Orlando has garnered so far this year, including recognition as a top "comeback city" from Kiplinger.com, a "top location for minority entrepreneurs" by Forbes, a "top business friendly city" by Foreign Direct Investment, and as "the state's fastest growing metropolis" by Reuters. The Next American Economy, which is available via Amazon and Barnes & Noble, has already received solid reviews, ranking as one of the top 10 business books out this spring by Publishers Weekly. For more on Holstein, go to williamjholstein.com

New Video Illustrates "Continuous Cycle" of Economic Development

Fri, 13 May 2011 14:41:59 -0500

"Economic development results create jobs, that generate income, that improve the quality of life ... so that people build things, pay taxes, raise families, and invest in a continuous cycle of economic growth." Economic development matters because its results matter. That is the primary message of a new "digital visualization" created for the EDC through the generosity of the Orlando office of North Highland and their Atlanta-based creative partner Sparks Grove. Long-time EDC supporter North Highland offered to produce the video as a tool to help tell the EDC story in an impactful manner to local audiences of all ages. Through a combination of video and animation, this new resource explains the process and impact of economic development on the local economy, businesses and citizens. It also answers the question, "Why should I care?", by introducing an emotional, personal connection to that process. Does it work? See for yourself. Click here to view the newest EDC promotional resource.

Summit Focuses on Exporting to Build the Bottom Line

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:36:04 -0500

"Why export?" That was the question posed during the Economic & Jobs Summit on April 15, which was the 6th in a series hosted by Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs. "Because it's good for your bottom line," was the answer given time and again by presenters, panelists and participants. Consider these facts:

95 percent of the world's consumers live outside of the United States. Companies only selling domestically are reaching just a small share of potential customers.

About one of every five factory jobs - or 20 percent of all jobs in America's manufacturing sector - depends on exports.

Florida Origin Exports reached $55.2 billion in 2010 - a 17.8 percent increase from 2009 levels.

Nearly 1.3 million jobs in Florida depend on international business and more than 55,000 Florida companies export. This is the second largest number of exporters in the U.S. after California.

Small and medium size companies accounted for 62 percent of Florida exports in 2008. This is the highest figure among the 50 states and is much higher than the U.S. average of 31percent.

And, perhaps most importantly for your company, companies that export report higher growth, pay higher wages, and are more profitable than non-exporters.

As part of our global outreach, the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC) provides direct consultation services to local businesses interested in establishing or expanding overseas trade. The EDC's International Business Development team promotes and supports local industry in several ways. Outbound Trade Missions Trade missions into foreign markets serve as matchmaking events, with appointments scheduled for local companies with potential international partners. Whether coordinated directly by the EDC, through the U.S. Department of Commerce, or through one of Enterprise Florida's international offices, these missions, which provide opportunities for in-depth presentations, are especially beneficial for companies whose products/services are not easily explained. Inbound Trade Missions In conjunction with partners such as Enterprise Florida, the EDC also coordinates several inbound trade missions into our market each year. These events help match local companies with potential international partners and promote greater trade between Orlando and the visiting region. Many of the participating delegates are particularly interested in understanding our region's strength in technology products and services. Export Counseling The EDC team visits hundreds of Metro Orlando companies each year to discuss a variety of business issues, including international trade. Our export counseling program can provide answers to shipping, legal and other technical questions. The EDC also frequently matches local companies with experts in the area through a referral service designed to meet specific company needs. Hundreds of local companies receive export counseling each year from the EDC. Export Road Shows The EDC hosts a series of Export Road Shows across the Metro Orlando region. These informative sessions, which are designed to help companies that are new to exporting, provide access to attorneys, CPAs, government organizations, freight forwarders, bankers and other international service companies who can answer a variety of questions related to international trade. Throughout the Metro Orlando community, in addition to the EDC, you can find numerous support organizations and resources focused on helping you navigate the waters of international trade. Our region is home to three Consulate General Offices, five Honorary Consulates, over 20 bi-national chambers of commerce, and more than 50 bi-national cultural and trade organizations. For a list of those organizations and other EDC partners, click here. For more information about how the Metro Orlando EDC can help your business, contact: Carmenza Gonzalez or Irma Stenman.

Texture Features Global Impacts of Central Florida Companies

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 11:13:15 -0500

We've all heard the adage, "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime." According to a new breed of social entrepreneurs, even that's not enough. They won't be content until the fishing industry is revolutionized ... for the greater good. The newest edition of the EDC's award-winning Texture magazine focuses on this growing trend of social entrepreneurship, which is a drive to affect social change through innovative business approaches. At the heart of this movement in our region is Rollins College's renowned Crummer Graduate School of Business, which is home to the Center for Advanced Entrepreneurship. Texture tells the story of local revolutionaries who are leading efforts to bring sustainable change to communities in Colombia, Haiti, India, Africa and beyond. A related story features the work of Orlando-headquartered Wycliffe Bible Translators, which has more than 7,000 missionaries at work on over 1,500 Bible translations around the globe. Wycliffe's goal is to translate Scripture into the native languages of cultures worldwide, many of whom don't yet have a written language of their own. The story details technology advances that are expediting the process. What once took a lifetime can now be accomplished in less than 10 years. Central Florida's manufacturing industry, which (despite reports to the contrary) continues to grow, is also highlighted in this issue, along with a description of that industry's efforts to drive STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) education at all levels. Another feature shines the spotlight on a few of the global powerhouses that have a presence in Central Florida: Siemens Energy, Darden Restaurants, Tupperware Brands and Mitsubishi Power Systems America. Published twice a year by the EDC, Texture is designed to tell the stories of industry innovations and innovators that are driving our local economy. The newest issue is also on its way via mail to all EDC investors and Communique subscribers. To view Texture online, click here.

Entrepreneurs with UCF Ties Earn Accolades

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 09:28:37 -0500

Talk about economic development ... In the first ten years of its existence, the UCF Business Incubation Program, which has been recognized among the best in the nation, nurtured the growth of over 100 new high tech companies in Central Florida. Together, these companies were responsible for creating 1,653 jobs that resulted in more than $70 million in earnings and nearly $200 million in total economic output annually. The influence of our hometown university's business incubation network on the strength of its client companies is also evident through the spate of honors garnered by current and past clients in recent weeks. Consider the following:

Small Business Development Center at University of Central Florida client Fernando C. Pereira, president of Pegasus Transportation, was named the North Florida District's 2011 Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Hometown Health TV, LLC - a client of UCF's Business Incubation Program in Leesburg / Lake County - received a national award for community programming from Communitas Awards organization.

And, four companies shepherded by the University of Central Florida Business Incubator Program - one current client and three graduate companies - were recently named among the 50 Florida Companies to Watch by GrowFL, UCF, The Edward Lowe Foundation and ACG Florida. They are OptiGrate Corp., which manufactures high-tech components for military systems, optical telecommunications, entertainment systems and sensing devices; Alinean, Inc., which develops online tools to promote business-to-business sales; DISTI Corporation, which provides industry leading 2D and 3D graphical user interface software and services worldwide; and Engineering & Computer Simulation, Inc., a leading provider of educational games and simulation, interactive performance assessment tools, mobile learning environments and enterprise-wide information management systems.

Disney Brings Magic to New Children's Hospital in Orlando

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 09:32:45 -0500

With the official opening of the Walt Disney Pavilion at Florida Hospital for Children, two industry giants have collaborated to usher in a new ushers in a new era of children's health care in Orlando, Florida. The Walt Disney Pavilion at Florida Hospital for Children is a seven-story facility that includes 200 pediatric beds, a dedicated pediatric Emergency Department, an advanced 81-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and pediatric surgical suites, all within an environment that brings Disney's special magic into the hospital. Walt Disney Imagineers designed the space to complement the hospital's healing environment where young patients are supported by caring medical professionals, along with family and friends. When patients walk in the front door, they are greeted by several popular Disney characters in a one-of-a-kind interactive lobby created by Disney's Imagineers. Inspired by the soothing environment of nature, the lobby features Disney characters such as Timon and Pumbaa from "The Lion King," Flounder and Sebastian from "The Little Mermaid," Rutt and Tuke from "Brother Bear" and Baloo from "The Jungle Book." There are even custom scents on each floor to match each of the themes. Throughout the design process, Florida Hospital also enlisted the help of its Family Advisory Council, which is an advisory group of past patients, parents and staff that offers feedback on the hospital. The Council contributed ideas on the layout of patient rooms, helped design the unique "family zone" waiting areas and even tested out various chairs and pull-out sofas that were incorporated throughout the hospital. Click here for a virtual tour of the Walt Disney Pavilion, to learn about the Florida Hospital-Disney Partnership, and to read about the Grand Opening.

Forbes Ranks Metro Orlando Among Best For Minority Business

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 09:07:45 -0500

"As the American economy struggles to recover, its greatest advantage lies with its diverse population," writes Joel Kotkin in his introduction to Forbes magazine's 2011 list of Best Cities for Minority Entrepreneurs. "The U.S.' major European competitors - Germany, Scandinavia, France, Italy, the Netherlands and Italy - have admittedly failed at integrating racial outsiders. In contrast, America's destiny is tied to minorities, who already constitute a third of the nation's population and who will account for roughly half of the population by 2050. Younger and more heavily represented in the labor force, minorities are poised to become the primary source of entrepreneurial growth." In recognition of the cultural and ethnic diversity which is helping to drive our region's economy, the Orlando-Kissimmee metropolitan statistical area (MSA) shows up in the #9 spot on that annual list, which was released this week. The only other Florida MSA on the list is Miami, which came in at #5. In determining the ranking, Forbes measured entrepreneurship (per capita self employment), along with housing affordability (median value divided by household income), population growth (2000 - 09), and income growth (1999 - 2009) among African Americans, Asians and Hispanics in markets with populations of 1 million plus. The diversity of our region's population is often touted by the EDC as an asset to companies who seek a broad, multi-lingual workforce to effectively compete in today's global economy. In addition, recognizing that more minority-owned businesses are being created in this country than ever before, the Metro Orlando EDC maintains a targeted initiative, dubbed the "minority business channel", designed to identify and recruit minority- and women-led businesses with the potential for relocation or expansion. For more about the Forbes' ranking, click here and here.

EDC Awards Celebration Provides Rich Memories

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 16:18:12 -0500

Two richly deserving individuals were honored Thursday evening during the EDC's Annual Awards Celebration. Rich Crotty, recently retired Mayor of Orange County, received the prestigious James B. Greene Economic Development Award. Rich Fulton, legal service partner with the Law Firm of Baker & Hostetler, was presented with the EDC Chairman's Award. The celebration took place at The Peabody Orlando. David Pace, President/CEO of New Broad Street Companies, who currently serves as both EDC Chairman of the Board and interim CEO, set the tone for the evening. He emphasized the potential of the Metro Orlando region in leading the state out of recession and into international economic prominence. But, he remonstrated, this will only be achieved through cooperation and true partnership. "To me," said Pace, "becoming maniacal about economic regionalism is the key to our transition to excellence." Pace's first major introduction of the evening was the individual recently hired to lead our region's economic development program of work: Rick Weddle, who takes the helm as new EDC CEO on Monday, March 14. Weddle received a warm welcome. In brief comments he said, "I truly believe this region has all the ingredients to be a winner; that is what brought me here." Focus then turned to our award winners. Since 1990, the James B. Greene Award has been given by the EDC to recognize an individual for significant contributions to Central Florida's growth and quality of life. This year's recipient, former Orange County Mayor Richard T. Crotty, well reflects the rich legacy of that award. He is a true community champion who has served Central Florida in the Florida Legislature, as both a state representative and senator; as Orange County Property Appraiser; and, for the past decade, as Mayor of Orange County. In that time, his fingerprints have been left on many of the most critical community achievements of three decades: from establishment of the Central Florida Research Park and the UCF College of Medicine, to recruitment of Sanford-Burnham and expansion of Darden Restaurant's corporate headquarters, to advancement of 'century decisions' ranging from community venues to commuter rail. "Those who have watched Mayor Crotty's long career selflessly serving the people of Orange County and all of Central Florida use one to describe him: tireless," said Pace. The EDC Chairman's Award, which was first presented in 2007, recognizes an individual who has contributed selflessly to the work of the Economic Development Commission. Another Rich, attorney Richard T. Fulton, was this year's much-deserving recipient. In addition to a key lead partner role in his national law firm, Baker & Hostetler, Fulton is a long-time and invaluable contributor to the EDC. He served as Chairman of the Board in 2004, and has been an active participant on that board for over 15 years. He is the catalyst behind the EDC's Government Liaison Team initiative, a program which he still chairs; and he most recently chaired the organization's Governance Task Force, which was one of five working groups resulting from the Board-led Leadership Charter Initiative. In the words of David Pace: "What sets Rich apart for myself and so many others connected to the EDC is that he has an extraordinary inability to say 'No'. This is the guy who will take on any task, from big to small, and do it flawlessly." One interesting outcome of the evening was the discovery that these award winners share more than an event in their honor. They not only have the same first name, Richard, and the same nickname, Rich. They also have the same middle name, Thomas. Even more uncanny, they discovered that they were born on the same day, August 30, in the very same year. A RICH coincidence! Congratulations to our 2011 award winners and sincere thanks to all who attended. Special thanks to the EDC Governors Council members who sponsored this memorable event: CNL, Darden, Florida Hospital, Harvard Development Co., Lockheed Martin, Orlando Health, Orlando Magic, Orlando Regional Realtor Association, Siemens, SunTrust, Tavistock Group, Tupperware Brands, University of Central Florida, and Walt Disney World. Thanks also to our event partners: WKMG-TV 6, The Peabody Orlando, and AVI-SPL.

New and Expanding Companies Mean Jobs for Central Florida

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 15:00:03 -0500

Economic development occurs in a variety of ways. While the attraction of new companies to the region generally grabs headlines, the expansion of existing local companies, especially expansions that result in additional jobs, is equally important to economy building. Two recent EDC project announcements reflect economic development success on both of those fronts. New corporate headquarters coming to town. The American Academy of Optometry (AAO), an international association of optometrists and vision scientists headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area, has announced plans to relocate their association headquarters to Metro Orlando in 2012. The relocation is expected to create 10 new jobs within the next three years. The EDC has worked on the AAO headquarters relocation since 2009. When their move is complete, AAO will become the newest in a growing number of associations that have chosen to call Central Florida home, including; American Automobile Association (AAA), Institute of Internal Auditors, Association of Corporate Contributions Professionals, and Amateur Athletic Union (AAU), among others. Winter Park company acquires South Carolina competitor. Wheeled Coach Industries, Inc., the world's largest manufacturer of ambulances and emergency-rescue vehicles, headquartered in Winter Park, has purchased a competing company from South Carolina. The acquisition will result in the merger of operations at the company's Orange County facility, a move expected to eventually result in 105 new manufacturing jobs and over $2 million new capital investment here in Central Florida. EDC representatives worked closely with the growing local company, coordinating incentive support from Orange County and the state of Florida.

EDC HIRES PRESIDENT & CEO

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 14:20:50 -0500

Rick Weddle, head of North Carolina's Research Triangle Park, to lead Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission The Metro Orlando EDC is pleased to announce that Rick Weddle, President and CEO of the Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina, the entity that owns and develops the renowned Research Triangle Park, has been hired as President and CEO. Weddle's extensive career in economic development will bring unique strengths to the Metro Orlando market, which is working to diversify its industry base and build-out ambitious projects, such as 'Medical City' at Lake Nona. As CEO of the Research Triangle Foundation, Weddle has been responsible for marketing and operation of the leading and largest high-technology park development in North America. Since 2004, under his leadership, the Research Triangle Park has surpassed historic gains, generating development projects with projected capital investment of over $800 million and the projected creation of over 5,500 new, high quality jobs. Prior to his arrival in the Research Triangle, Weddle served as President and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) in Phoenix, Arizona. Throughout his career, which spans from the 1980s, he also led economic development organizations in Toledo, Ohio, where he served as President and CEO of the Regional Growth Partnership (RGP); in Stockton, California, as President and CEO of the San Joaquin Partnership & Business Council; and in Winston-Salem, North Carolina where he was President and CEO of Winston-Salem Business Inc. "We could not be more pleased that Rick Weddle will lead the Metro Orlando EDC," said David Pace, who, as EDC Chairman of the Board, led the search process. "He is one of the most recognized and accomplished economic development professionals in the nation. When Rick became known to us, we knew that we owed it to our region to get this individual on board." Pace continued, "What Rick brings to Metro Orlando is a long track record of success in job creation, extensive experience in national and international economic development, and extensive experience in the business of science and technology parks. He is the absolute right person to lead economic development in a community such as ours, which is ripe with potential and poised for growth." Weddle is well known in international economic development circles. He currently serves as Vice President of the International Association of Science Parks (IASP) and was elected President of IASP-North American Division in December 2007. He also has been active in the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) since its inception. In 2002, Mr. Weddle was elected as the first Chairman of the Board of the IEDC; in 2007 he was awarded the designation of Honorary Life Member; and in 2009 he received the 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Economic Development in honor of Edward deLuca. Weddle is also an active speaker and recognized expert who has appeared on CNBC, among other national news programs. In addition, he has served on numerous gubernatorially-appointed task forces and working committees and he currently serves on the Board of Directors of various national and regional organizations, including: Research Triangle Regional Partnership; Duke Raleigh Hospital; and Chair of the Regional Transportation Alliance. "I am thoroughly impressed with the people and the determination found here in Orlando," said Weddle. "While there are still challenges ahead in bringing down the unemployment rate and further diversifying the region's economy, the assets, infrastructure and, most importantly, attitude, are in place to make that happen. I am honored and excited to be part of the team." Weddle's expected start date is March 14th. He and his wife Ginger will relocate to Central Florida from Cary, North Carolina.

Jobs on the Horizon

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 09:41:17 -0500

At last week's meeting of the Orange County Board of Commissioners, county leaders approved an incentive package designed to help a growing high-tech company remain and expand in the Central Florida Research Park. The county incentive, which is expected to be matched 80:20 by the State of Florida, will allow DSCI, a defense simulation and optics/photonics company, to consolidate out-of-state offices and grow their presence in our region. Within the next three years, the company plans to add 40 new employees to their current workforce of 31; jobs that pay an average wage of more than $80,000, which is double the county's prevailing wage. This isn't the only EDC client to announce expansion plans in recent weeks. Tecport Optics, an Orlando-based optics company that designs, manufactures, sells and services state-of-the-art thin film vacuum deposition systems, recently expanded into a larger facility and announced plans to double its workforce over the next three years. The EDC has worked with Tecport for several years, providing general assistance and introductions to incentive and grant opportunities, such as the UCF-based GrowFL economic gardening program. As a result, Tecport received an Economic Gardening Business Loan - to be used for working capital purchases, employee training, or salaries for newly created jobs - which will enable the company to bring more of its manufacturing operations to Central Florida. And in Seminole County, Industrial Lighting Products - a manufacturer of high efficiency lighting and energy-efficient fixtures - recently expanded into a new 40,000-square-foot location in Sanford. The company expects to create 59 new manufacturing jobs over the next two years. The EDC assisted ILP with a refund for sales tax paid on utilities and introduced them to the GrowFL program, as well as other local resources. This growing company is one of 1,723 manufacturers, who together employ 37,000 here in Central Florida.

Manufacturing sector rebounding. Orlando helping to lead the way.

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 14:16:43 -0500

Manufacturing in the U.S. grew at its fastest pace in seven years, according to a new report from the Institute of Supply Management. This is a positive sign for growth in the manufacturing industry and indicates that companies in this important sector are hiring. Adding 200 manufacturing jobs during 2010, Orlando is among the top 35 markets for gains in manufacturing jobs, according to an analysis of data from the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics provided by Buffalo Business First, a sister publication of the Orlando Business Journal. Orlando's manufacturing, warehousing and distribution sector represents a wide range of industries and sizes, including: Mitsubishi Power Systems Americas, Inc.; HD Supply; Lockheed Martin; .decimal; and others. Read more about Orlando's manufacturing sector.

EDC Announces Two Richly Deserving Award Winners

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 09:41:28 -0500

The Metro Orlando EDC's prestigious James B. Greene and Chairman's Awards will be presented at our annual Award Celebration, to be held Thursday, March 10th at The Peabody Orlando. Today we are pleased to announce our 2011 honorees. The James B. Greene Award, first given in 1990, recognizes an individual who has contributed substantially to the economic development of the region. There are few Central Floridians who have contributed more than this year's honoree: former Orange County Mayor Richard T. Crotty. From his work as a state legislator (1978 - 1992) in advancing the legislation that created the Central Florida Research Park adjacent to UCF; to his distinguished service as Orange County Property Appraiser (1992 - 2001); to his legacy as Mayor of Orange County (2001 - 2011) in helping to bring the dream of a UCF College of Medicine and the Sanford-Burnham Institute to our region's emerging "medical city", Rich Crotty has left an indelible mark on the economic development of Central Florida. The EDC Chairman's Award, established in 2007, recognizes an individual who has contributed substantially to the work of the EDC. This year's award will go to Richard T. Fulton, legal services partner with the law firm of Baker Hostetler. A longtime member of the EDC Board of Directors who served as Chairman of the Board in 2004, Fulton's commitment to the EDC spans many years and many aspects. As described by current EDC Board Chair David Pace, who will present the award, "No task is too big or too small for Rich." He has negotiated leases and revised bylaws. He has long contributed to the organization's fundraising and friend-raising. And he is the architect of the EDC's Government Liaison Teams, a program that he continues to lead today. There is much more to learn about these two deserving award winners. We hope you will make plans to join us on March 10th. For registration and event details, click here.

Promoting Metro Orlando On The Road

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 11:22:37 -0500

EDC staff were busy promoting our region from coast to coast last week. Their goal: to highlight Central Florida's advantages for business, especially in the film and technology industries.

Suzy Spang, vice president of film & entertainment technology, was in Park City, Utah for the internationally-renowned Sundance Film Festival, which focuses on independent films. She met with directors and producers from across the globe, promoting Orlando as the ideal location for filming. Jennifer Pennypacker, director of film & entertainment technology, was in Miami for the National Association of Television Program Executives conference. She represented our region as a location for television production. Gloria LeQuang, director of business development, was in San Francisco for SPIE Photonics West, an annual gathering of lasers, optics and photonics company executives. This specialized industry has a strong base in Central Florida.

This EDC has become recognized as an industry leader in the use of social media efforts to maximize impact before, during and after conference participation and sales missions. This week's activities reflected that. In order to stand out in the crowd, the EDC scheduled tweets designed to attract the attention of festival-goers. Here are a few samples:

@filmorlando represents 4,012 square miles and 25 jurisdictions for film permitting in the nation. #Sundance

Well known as the world's premier tourist destination, Orlando is a leading destination for film, TV and commercial production. #NATPE

Did you know? The optics and photonics industry in Metro Orlando has been around since the 1960s. #SPIE #PW11

Follow the EDC on Twitter.

EDC 2011 Legislative Agenda Approved

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 10:00:35 -0500

Annually the EDC advances an agenda designed to support legislative efforts that bolster economic development. In addition to high speed rail, this year's list of priorities, which was approved by the EDC Board of Directors last week, includes the following: creation of a research and development tax credit; expansion of current ad valorem tax exemption qualifications; enhancement of existing legislation for entertainment incentives and economic gardening; and creation of equitable funding allocation models for the Florida College System. Click here for the complete 2011 Legislative Agenda.

Tooth Fairy 2 set to begin production in Metro Orlando

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 16:15:09 -0500

Parallel Entertainment has returned to Central Florida for the production of Tooth Fairy 2 starring Larry the Cable Guy. This sequel to the popular Tooth Fairy is expected to shoot from Feb. 7- March 11 throughout the area, with production based at Universal Studios Florida. Tooth Fairy 2 is the third project shot by Parallel Entertainment in Central Florida alongside Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector and Bait Shop. The film will stimulate the local economy with the anticipated creation of over 150 jobs as well as other expenditures. Tooth Fairy 2 is the first film to take advantage of the newly revamped film incentive in Central Florida.

Orlando = Least Expensive City for Entrepreneurs

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 12:00:00 -0500

While Orlando consistently ranks as one of the top places in the nation for business, now Orlando also ranks as the least expensive city in the nation for entrepreneurs to launch a business, according to a new report by The Boyd Co. of Princeton, N.J.

Sanford-Burnham announces new pharmaceutical partnerships

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 10:21:45 -0500

Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute has announced a three-year partnership with drug maker Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals to explore new drugs for Alzheimer's disease and psychiatric disorders, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and depression. Teams at both Sanford-Burnham's La Jolla and Orlando campuses will be involved in the research. Molecular compounds will be screened using the robotic screening facility established by the National Institutes of Health at the research institute's Lake Nona site. This good news comes on the heels of last month's announcement of a partnership between Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute at Lake Nona, Florida Hospital and Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Asia's largest pharmaceutical company. That two-year Florida-based collaboration will focus on discovery and evaluation of new therapeutic approaches to obesity.

UCF joins Harvard, MIT, Johns Hopkins and Stanford in Top Ranking

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 09:07:37 -0500

The University of Central Florida (UCF) ranks among the nation's top research institutions according to the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. UCF joins Harvard, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Johns Hopkins, and Stanford in this impressive ranking. During the last year, UCF researchers were awarded a record $133.3 million in external research funding. Much of the research that takes place at UCF is commercialized and brought to the marketplace thanks to the nationally renowned UCF Business Incubation Program which has helped develop 100 companies with an economic impact of $200 million.

Filming in Orlando: Sunshine, green grass and 0% chance of snow

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 16:30:00 -0500

Eek! It's snowing in the south! Even as far south as Atlanta...but not quite in Florida. Producers and directors of television commercials who are literally snowed in right now are realizing they can no longer film in their original location. The result? The Metro Orlando Film & Entertainment Commission's phones are ringing off the hook. Since the brutal winter weather started a few weeks ago, we've talked with dozens of industry professionals now considering or planning to film commercials in the sunshine state. While our weather might be chilly this week (brr...it's 63 degrees out right now)...there is a 0% chance of snow (or any other precipitation), sunshine each day and green grass. This makes Metro Orlando the ideal market for television commercials. And while this time of year is always considered our busy season for commercials, this year could look even better thanks to the blustery weather across the south. To contact our film office, call 407.422.7159 or for more on filming in Metro Orlando, visit www.FilmOrlando.com.