Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission - News

Visions@Work For Lake County

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:00:15 -0500

Doctor's offices throughout Lake County will be the testing ground for a new online physician referral service that could one day soon set the standard for patient referrals and monitoring. Visions@Work - a Clermont-based company that develops custom software - has a new product called Preffer, which they have offered free for one year to physicians throughout the county. The Preffer software has also been given to Lake-Sumter Community College for use in LSCC's new pilot training program for Electronic Health Records Support Technician. Believe it or not, paper referrals are still the norm among doctors, a reality that can make tracking of patient care difficult once they are referred to a specialist. Visions@Work's online referral service eliminates manual system inefficiencies by allowing physicians to electronically manage referrals. With one in six workers employed in the healthcare industry, Lake County rivals other major metros known for medical services. That makes this Central Florida community an optimal testing ground for a medical advancement which could ultimately lead to cost savings, improved patient satisfaction and stronger provider relationships throughout the healthcare industry, both here and worldwide. This unique partnership was the brainchild of the EDC's Lake County Economic Development Advisory Council. The Council's Health and Wellness sub-committee identified the need to assist our healthcare community with electronic health record requirements and training that were legislated in 2004, and the Council's marketing and workforce sub-committees helped them connect to Visions@Work. According to Dr. Chuck Mojock, President of LSCC and Chairman of the Economic Development Advisory Council: "The project, which is funded through WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA's New & Emerging Industries Program, is a perfect example of creating partnerships that are win-win-win. Everyone benefits from the collaboration."

Partnerships Set Central Florida Apart

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:14:48 -0500

Several events of the past week reinforce again why Metro Orlando is so often envied for its unique collaborations; and how the University of Central Florida has earned its reputation as a leading "partnership university". Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer helped UCF Provost Terry Hickey welcome UF President Bernie Machen to downtown Orlando's growing "Creative Village" last week. Together they officially opened Citylab-Orlando, a research and teaching center from UF's College of Design, Construction and Planning, that will collaborate with UCF faculty. The new program - which is already involved with local urban design projects including redesigning space under Interstate 4 (dubbed "Orlando's Bridge District") - will be housed within UCF's Center for Emerging Media located in the former Orlando ExpoCentre in downtown Orlando. According to Dr. Machen: "Orlando has a special place in this state and indeed the nation. What's emerging here is a new fusion of culture, commerce, imagination and industry." The fusion continued as Valencia Community College and UCF dedicated a new shared facility that allows the nation's third largest university to further expand its offerings on the west side of Orlando. The $23 million, three-story, 100,000-square-foot facility, located on Valencia's West Campus, accommodates classes offered by both institutions, with more than 40 classrooms, a state-of-the-art testing center, computer labs, study rooms, faculty/staff offices and a café. With this opening, UCF now offers complete bachelor's degrees in Nursing, Electrical Engineering, Applied Science, Business Administration, Interdisciplinary Studies and Psychology through the campus on south Kirkman Road. Valencia's engineering programs are also housed in the building.

Free Tool Helps Your Business Fight the Flu

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:00:20 -0500

The Emergency Medicine Learning & Resource Center (EMLRC) - a national non-profit organization headquartered in Orlando that is dedicated to promoting public health - has developed a planning tool to help business owners and managers prepare their companies and employees for the impact of the H1N1 flu virus and other natural and man-made disasters. Titled the Business Continuity and Disaster Preparedness Plan, this tool was developed with small to medium-sized businesses in mind. It provides a brief but thorough process for thinking through strategies to handle impacts of a flu outbreak, or any other situation disruptive to standard business operations. To download the planning document, click here. Founded in 1990 by the Florida College of Emergency Physicians, EMLRC provides continuing education and training to more than 5,000 EMS professionals each year. The company, a recognized leader in the growing field of medical simulation, also operates SimLab, one of the nation's first Mobile Simulation Laboratories which is designed to provide training in a simulated ER and ambulance environment on wheels. Below, CEO Beth Brunner explains what the company does and gives a tour of SimLab.

Cleantech Study: Turning Green to Gold

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:23:56 -0500

Going green is not only good for the planet, according to a new study completed for Orange County, it's also good for the job market. Clean Technology - an emerging field focused on technology innovations that reduce environmental impacts - is a $284 billion global market that is expected to reach over $1.3 trillion by 2017. Recognizing the potential of this emerging industry to economic growth and job creation, Central Florida is among regions worldwide working to develop a cleantech cluster. Establishing a game plan to accomplish that task was the purpose of the Orange County Cleantech Study, which was authored by the University of Central Florida's Institute for Economic Competitiveness. The report proposes a 17-point action plan, including the following: increase access to capital by creating targeted cleantech funds; create grants as incentives for research and commercialization of new technologies; enact comprehensive green building codes and ordinances; and expand partnerships within the community, including establishment of a Cleantech Leadership Council and Green Jobs Committee. In issuing the report, Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty noted that existing support for the industry on a local and statewide level, natural resources, and award-winning research facilities (such as UCF's Florida Solar Energy Center) already located in Central Florida will contribute to the county's goal of making this region a hub for cleantech. Emphasizing the long term job creation potential of this strategy, the Mayor added: "We can turn green into gold." John Lewis, Orange County economic development administrator, added: "Cleantech is the next wave of innovation and job creation in the country. Regions that take advantage of that are going to be successful." To view a copy of the study, click here.

'Tis the Season

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 10:05:00 -0500

No, we're not talking holidays...we're talking commercials! Fall officially kicks off the season during which companies and ad agencies from all over descend on Metro Orlando to shoot television commercials. Why, you ask? Because, unlike up north where the leaves have started to change, the leaves here in Orlando stay green year-round. That's good for commercial production since locations in Orlando can represent any season of the year! As a result, film permit requests have been flowing into the EDC's Metro Orlando Film & Entertainment Office. Recent commercials shot here include: Bright House, Stein Mart, Orlando Health, Rooms To Go, TD Ameritrade, Gillette, Bush's Baked Beans, Cracker Barrel, Honda Boats, Snickers, BOSE, NBC Sunday Night Football Open and David Maus Toyota, to name a few.

Burnham Institute Dedicates Lake Nona Campus

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 17:53:53 -0500

"Florida's investment in the life science industry is now paying back like our own economic stimulus package," said Dr. John Reed, president & CEO, Burnham Institute for Medical Research. Dr. Reed went on to thank the community and state leaders for making his and other life science research institutes' location in Florida possible. His remarks came during the official dedication of Burnham's Lake Nona campus this week. (left to right) Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer; Orange County Mayor Rich Crotty; Dr. John Reed; Raesesh Thakker; Malin Burnham; Florida Governor Charlie Crist; Dr. Dan Kelly Hundreds of business and community leaders gathered to celebrate as the first facility in the new Medical City at Lake Nona became fully operational. In addition to Reed, dedication speakers included Florida Governor Charlie Crist; Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer; Orange County Mayor Richard T. Crotty; Rasesh Thakkar, senior managing partner of the Tavistock Group; Malin Burnham, philanthropist and chairman of Burnham's Board of Trustees; and Dr. Daniel Kelly, scientific director at Burnham Lake Nona. (left to right) Burnham's George T. Lucier, Dr. John Reed, and Dr. Dan Kelly After the dedication, attendees toured the new 175,000-square-foot scientific facility, which will ultimately house 30 head researchers plus 300 scientists and staff. The Lake Nona facility will focus, in particular, on advances in combating diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease. Already the state-of-the-art facility includes an ultra-high throughput screening center, one of only four NIH-funded comprehensive chemical screening centers in the country, complete with three robotic arms capable of conducting more than one million experiments per day. These sophisticated tools, along with a commitment to collaborative research, will enable Burnham scientists to move discoveries from bench to bedside more quickly than ever before. Burnham's gratitude and commitment to this community came through loud and clear; while Central Florida's pride in this accomplishment - which, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer reminded us, had happened within a span of just three years- was evident and widespread. Perhaps Rasesh Thakker, Senior Managing Director of Tavistock Group, summed it up best: "Today we revel in what has been accomplished." Here, Dr. John Reed explains Orlando's spirit of collaboration impressed the Burnham Institute.

Darden Restaurants Opens New Corporate Headquarters in Orlando

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 17:45:31 -0500

Darden Restaurants, a Fortune 500 company, recently celebrated the opening of their new 469,000-square-foot headquarters operation in south Orange County. Well known for its commitment to its people, the company's three-story building, situated on a 57-acre campus, is designed to maximize staff performance, interactions and efficiencies. It will house 1,300 Darden employees who provide support to nearly 1,800 Red Lobster, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, Bahama Breeze and Seasons 52 restaurants throughout North America. Joining in the ribbon cutting were (left to right): Bob Abberger, Trammell Crow Company; Jim Lawrence, Darden; Mayor Crotty, Orange County; Clarence Otis, Darden; Drew Madsen, Darden; Mayor Dyer, City of Orlando; Don Reynolds, Perkins+Will; and Steve Rivers, Hardin Construction. The new facility is also designed to maximize energy efficiencies. Development partners Hardin Construction, Trammell Crow and Perkins+Will developed the building in accordance with Gold LEED certification for new construction from the United States Green Building Council. Upon final certification, Darden's corporate headquarters will become the largest LEED Gold NC building in Florida. Construction elements include use of high-efficiency heating and air conditioning systems; an automatic lighting system that dims or brightens according to the amount of sunlight entering the building; increased use of natural light made possible by a 114,000 square-foot glass curtainwall exterior; a highly reflective roof system that helps maintain the building's interior temperature; restrooms and irrigation systems using reclaimed water; and use of native trees, plants and grasses that require minimal water.

EDC Announces New Board Leadership

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 11:38:51 -0500

The Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC) has elected its 2009-2010 officers and Board of Directors. Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resorts, takes the helm as Chair of the EDC Board of Directors. She follows John Hillenmeyer, president and CEO of Orlando Health, who will continue to serve on the EDC officer team as immediate past chairman. David Pace, president of New Broad Street Companies, steps in as vice chairman; and Alex Martins, COO of the Orlando Magic, was elected secretary-treasurer. Crofton's foremost goal as chairman will be to advance the leadership initiative started this year, which is designed to position the EDC for continued success in an era of new economic realities. Through this initiative, five working groups have been established: mission & value proposition; governance; funding; business development; and succession planning. Together these groups will contribute to a multi-year plan and address long-term organizational priorities. Several new additions to the EDC Board were also welcomed at this week's Board Meeting: Tim Baker, Baker Barrios Architects; Mark Glover, M&S Enterprises; Karl Nebel, North Highland; Jim Jardon, JHT; Cecelia Bonifay, Akerman Senterfitt; Nina Yon, Asian American Chamber; and Carlos Colombo, Hispanic Chamber. In outlining plans for the coming year, Ray Gilley, EDC president & CEO, noted that, "With unemployment in Central Florida hovering in the ten-percent range, the EDC's mission of job creation and industry diversification is more important than ever before." Acknowledging a tight budget year, he outlined plans for a program of work that emphasizes balance and prioritizes return on investment.

Peace, Love and Film

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 09:40:58 -0500

Today, the Global Peace Film Festival kicks off in Central Florida. The festival features 39 films (both feature and shorts) from six continents, panel discussions, art exhibit and more. The Global Peace Film Festival - established to utilize the power of motion picture to further the goal of peace on earth - runs through September 27 at a variety of locations throughout the region. More info at www.peacefilmfest.org. Other major film festivals held in Central Florida throughout the year include the Florida Film Festival, Orlando Film Festival, Hispanic Film Festival and IndieFest.

Orlando Celebrates Hispanic Heritage

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 09:40:48 -0500

Orlando, Florida, is one of the fastest growing regions in the country for Hispanics according to the Pew Hispanic Center. And Hispanic Heritage Month - which runs from September 15 to October 15 - is an opportunity to remind us of the contributions Hispanics have made to our community and our nation. Throughout the month, there are several celebrations taking place, including the Orlando Hispanic Film Festival. In addition, Orlando is opening doors for Hispanic entrepreneurs to realize their dreams. There are a multitude of organizations that directly support the Hispanic community in Central Florida, including both the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Business Initiative Fund. Metro Orlando's diversity, combined with our region's reputation as a community that welcomes those from all backgrounds and walks of life, provides a competitive advantage in attracting minority owned and led businesses. Building on the belief that a culturally diverse community makes good business sense, the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC) established a Minority Channel initiative aimed at encouraging minority owned and led businesses in targeted industries to consider Orlando as the site of choice for relocation or expansion.

Innovative Companies Recognized

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:09:44 -0500

Eight companies in Metro Orlando were honored by the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC) with the 2009 William C. Schwartz Industry Innovation Award on September 17, 2009. The annual award program recognizes innovative companies who have had a significant impact on the region and in their respective fields for innovative practices, products and/or ideas. The program is named in honor of the late William C. Schwartz, an avid community leader, business pioneer and innovator within the field of optics and photonics. "Cultivating innovative thinking helps drive the economy and is critical to the long term economic growth of the region," said Ray Gilley, president and CEO of the EDC. "We are proud to remember [William C. Schwartz] and his great spirit though this awards program." Recipients come from each of the four counties served by the EDC - Orange, Seminole, Lake and Osceola counties - and from the City of Orlando. In addition, awards were also presented to judges award winners and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council's Award for Innovation. One of the top passenger airports in the world noticed a security issue when bags that had been on the claim device began making their way back into the "secure" area of the airport. Lake County based G & T Conveyor surveyed the situation and created a solution called the "secure claim device". It utilizes a merging system designed to eliminate the security issue, plus adds energy conservation and quicker customer turnaround. A prime example of the type of company included in City of Orlando's vision of a Creative Village is 360Ed, an educational software development company that has leveraged Orlando's unique position in digital media, training, simulation and virtual education through developing a high school level full-credit videogame course in American History. Orange County based Smart City Telecom partnered with Florida Hospital to provide hospital specific content on televisions in patient rooms, the first of its kind. This customization of television is believed to be a competitive advantage to better educate patients and help improve patient satisfaction. In Seminole County, the City of Oviedo implemented a water conservation effort known as the H2Oviedo Water Conservation Incentive. The program is the first of its kind in Central Florida and it offers incentives in the form of rebates to residents for retrofitting existing landscaping, wasteful water-use devices and high water-use irrigation systems with more efficient ones. It is a win-win environmental initiative for the community where residents learn new ways to save water and money while becoming stewards for their community. Over ten years ago, INViSiON Industries created the world's first overhead video system with a built-in monitor for vehicle entertainment and set the standard for all others who are now involved with rear seat entertainment. As the demand for these entertainment systems increases, it should come as no surprise that INViSiON recently announced they plan to expand their corporate headquarters by adding 100 employees in Osceola County. Judges' awards Children's Home Society of Florida received an award for their annual Florida Innovation Symposium. This one day conference made possible through the donation of Siemens' Spaceship Earth Conference Center at Walt Disney World's EPCOT. Several partnerships between organizations have been the result of the annual gathering, including collaborations between Children's Home Society, Orange County Domestic Violence Program and Harbor House that lead to a more coordinated focus on child and family advocacy programs. AT & T was recognized for their generous donation to the Parramore Kidz Zone project. With their donation, the Parramore Kidz Zone was able to enhance computer accessibility for schoolchildren at "homework rooms" throughout the community. In addition, the program was able to expand the access of children to attend the University of Central Florida "CREATE U" program, giving students access to learn how to create digital videos about their lives. Florida High Tech Corridor Council Award for Innovation Lockheed Martin was recognized for serving as an innovation leader with a history of stimulating technology growth in our region. Lockheed Martin is one of the largest partners in the Council's Matching Grants Research Program. Over the program's 13-year history, Lockheed Martin has funded more than $5 million in matched research dollars, on 73 projects with 37 faculty members at two of our three Corridor universities, UCF and UF. Medical Markers This year, as part of the EDC's award ceremony, bioOrlando - an EDC led initiative aimed at stimulating the life science and biotechnology industry in Metro Orlando - announced the inaugural class of 'medical marker' recipients. This program is designed to build awareness of the growing presence of biotech and life science companies in Metro Orlando with a physical marker designation. The inaugural recipients include: Florida Hospital, Orlando Health, The Tavistock Group, Florida Blood Centers, VaxDesign, Curascript, Triad Isotopes, Virtual Reality Medical Center, Emergency Medicine & Learning Resource Center, Cord:Use, National Training Center, Health Central, .decimal and South Lake Hospital.

EDC Minority Channel Recognized

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:40:37 -0500

The 2009 Beacon Awards, which honor Central Florida organizations and leaders who make workforce diversity a priority, were announced ... and the Metro Orlando EDC's Minority Channel Initiative was a winner! The ceremony was held last week at Disney's Yacht and Beach Club. From the EDC, Carmenza Gonzalez and Beverly Marshall-Luney were there to accept the award from Orlando City Commissioner Daisy Lynum. The EDC's Minority Channel initiative is aimed at recruiting minority-owned and led businesses to Metro Orlando. And, that is exactly what the EDC was doing over the Labor Day weekend, as the EDC's Ray Gilley and Rodney Hughes participated in the Black Enterprise Pepsi Golf and Tennis Challenge, held here in Orlando at the J.W. Marriott Grande Lakes. This provided the opportunity for the EDC team to spend time with several c-suite executives interested in expansion opportunities. Similar EDC activities target Hispanic-owned and women-owned businesses on an ongoing basis. Congratulations also to Zoraida Velasco of the EDC's International Business Development Team, who was honored with the "up-and-comer" Beacon Award, and to the following EDC investors who were recognized: Disney Entrepreneur Center; Siemens Energy, Inc.; and Barton Malow Company.

Jobs, Jobs, Jobs!

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 11:04:52 -0500

Florida Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp was in Maitland last week to help announce the expansion of Digital Risk LLC, a leading risk mitigation solutions provider for the mortgage industry. Headquartered here in Central Florida, the company also has offices in New York and Dallas. In a new era of mortgage risk awareness, this company is experiencing explosive growth. It recently increased its employee base to 400 and 240 new high-wage, knowledge-based jobs are anticipated with the expansion announced this week. "When we talk about targeted industry growth and diversified job creation, this is just the type of company that makes it happen," said Lt. Governor Kottkamp. In addition to the job creation, the company has committed to a minimum of $1.2 million capital investment in equipment, research and development. Over the last eight months, the Metro Orlando EDC led coordination between the Governor's Office of Trade, Tourism and Economic Development (OTTED), Enterprise Florida, Orange County, and the City of Maitland to secure this project. Digital Risk qualified for a Qualified Targeted Industry (QTI) tax refund, as well as for support through the state's Quick Action Closing Fund program. More jobs Orlando-based Gen2Media Corporation - a fully integrated digital media, technology and marketing company whose clients include Microsoft Xbox and Coca-Cola, among many others - recently expanded into nearly 6,000 square-feet of office space near Kirkman and Sand Lake Roads in the City of Orlando. Capital investment is estimated at $150,000 and the company plans to add 40 new jobs within the next 36 months. One of Metro Orlando's hidden gems; Gen2Media's proprietary Digital Video Publishing Platform enables companies of all sizes to create and deliver video via traditional, online and on-location media. Most recently, the company provided all digital video production and technology for Grammy® award-winning artists Black Eyed Peas' concert performance during the "NFL Opening Kickoff 2009 Presented by EA Sports" pregame show, which aired Thursday night. The EDC assisted Gen2Media throughout their expansion with regional industry information, facilitation of applications for various incentive programs, introduction to key local contacts, and workforce resources. Still more jobs In Seminole County, Pinnacle AMS has been approved to receive $52,324 in Quick Response Training funds. The company, which currently employs 160, will use grant dollars to train 50 new full-time employees over the next two years. Pinnacle provides property management and accounting services for clients worldwide. While based in Seattle, the company's Central Florida location serves as their East Coast Regional Office and headquarters for company-wide accounting services. Seminole Community College and EDC staff assisted in the application process. And, Lake Mary-based Laser Photonics' expansion into 100,000 square feet has resulted in 72 new jobs, bringing the companies total employment to 102. Capital investment for new equipment and tenant improvements is estimated at $7 million. Laser Photonics is an industry leader in developing high-tech fiber and CO2 laser systems for various manufacturing applications. The EDC assisted this company with financing, incentives, utilities, training, and workforce.

"Forensic Files" Films on Local Roadway

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:34:25 -0500

Central Florida's State Road 429 was transformed into a film set last week, as Forensic Files, a television series airing on the tru TV network, shot on location in Orange County. The reality TV show, which delves into the world of forensic science - profiling intriguing crimes, accidents and outbreaks of disease - is seen in 142 countries worldwide. With the help of the Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority and the EDC's Metro Orlando Film & Entertainment Commission, series producers located a spot suitable to film their crime re-enactment, while also minimizing the impact on local traffic. Our Film Commission assisted throughout planning and production, providing location scouting and permitting services. Look for Forensic Files on Friday nights at 10 p.m. EST.

Another Step Forward for Orlando's Life Sciences Cluster

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 13:03:48 -0500

A new partnership between Florida Hospital and the Burnham Institute for Medical Research at Lake Nona brings two powerhouse organizations together to tackle the growing health problems of diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease. The goal of the two organizations, who are collaborating to establish a new health research institute, is to bridge the distance between research in the lab and treatment at the bedside. Dr. Steve R. Smith, an internationally-renowned diabetes and obesity researcher, was introduced on Monday as the executive director of the new Florida Hospital - Burnham Clinical Research Institute. The Institute, scheduled to open in 2012, will be housed in a 35,000 square foot building on Princeton Street. Located adjacent to the Florida Hospital South Campus, the new facility will serve as the gateway to Florida Hospital's "Health Village". "With this partnership, we hope to change how diabetes and obesity research is conducted," said Dr. Steven R. Smith. "This new institute will help break down the distance that exists between research and the clinic and help make it possible to deliver results faster and on a personalized level." Community and business leaders, who gathered for the announcement on Monday, lauded this as another milestone for the fast-emerging life science cluster that is transforming the Metro Orlando economy.

Incubators Are Hatching

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:53:35 -0500

Attraction, retention, creation. Those "big three" strategies in economic development are all equally important to growing and diversifying an economy. Here in Metro Orlando, the creation component of this three-pronged approach most often begins when an entrepreneur with a good idea finds his or her way to the University of Central Florida's Business Incubation Network. Since its founding in 1999, this UCF program, which was named best in the nation in 2004, has helped more than 100 emerging companies (including nearly 70 current clients) create over $500 million in annual revenue and more than 1,600 new jobs. And more is on the way. Last week, UCF, the City of St. Cloud and Osceola County broke ground on its Business, Technology and Research Center, which will be located at Stevens Plantation in St. Cloud. Upon opening in early 2010, the new 14,000 square feet facility will be the 8th in the University's Incubator Network. In a reflection of true partnership, Osceola County has committed $675,000 in funding to the Incubator over a five year period, and the county's economic development team will work closely with UCF in marketing this great new resource. The UCF Business Incubator - Lake County/Leesburg is another recent addition to the network. This facility, whose newest client is Green Solar Solutions, focuses on supporting growth of companies in three of Lake County's targeted industry sectors: clean tech, agritech, and life sciences. Along with mentoring and management counseling, incubator clients are provided with office furniture, equipment, and other resources to help get them off on the right foot. The Small Business Development Center and Florida High Tech Corridor Council are also partners in this Lake County-based program. The network is growing in Seminole County as well. Already home to a facility in Winter Springs, UCF announced plans to open the UCF/Sanford Business Incubator at 110 West First Street. The 4,000-square-foot space will be located in the center of Sanford's historic district. Like the others, this program will focus on emerging business enterprises that exhibit potential for growth and development. The Sanford facility is slated to open in September 2009. According to Tom O'Neal, executive director of the Incubator network: "Our job is to help businesses create jobs. Business incubation is an efficient strategy to help improve the local economy, and the benefits are long-lasting." The Metro Orlando EDC works closely with O'Neal and each of his facility directors to support growing companies throughout the incubation period and beyond. Our shared goal is ensuring the right environment and resources necessary to help companies build and stand on their own, eventually resulting in thousands of new jobs for citizens throughout Metro Orlando.

EDC Celebrates Women and Diversity

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 15:38:41 -0500

Did you know that one in six companies based in Metro Orlando is owned by a woman? Celebrating the impact of women-owned businesses, as well as the increasing number that are women-led, was the goal of an EDC gathering attended by over 100 of those dynamic female executives on Thursday. Hosted in conjunction with the Orlando Business Journal, the morning reception honored past and recent recipients of the OBJ's "Women Who Mean Business" awards. It also provided an opportunity to introduce participants to the EDC's Minority Business Channel, an initiative designed to target and attract additional minority and women-owned businesses to Metro Orlando, as well as helping those already located here to grow and succeed. Highlights of the morning included remarks from Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World, an inspiring executive at the pinnacle of her career, as well as from Rachel Pohl, a nineteen-year-old Hamilton College student studying the status of women in developing countries, who represents the "next generation" of female leaders in our community. Metro Orlando's demographic diversity leads the nation. This, combined with our region's reputation as a community that welcomes those from all backgrounds and walks of life, provides a competitive advantage in attracting minority and women-led businesses. And that's a smart economic development strategy, as these groups comprise the fastest growing segment of industry today. For more information on the EDC's Minority Channel, contact Rodney Hughes.

Local Film Named Best in Florida

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:02:15 -0500

This Man's Life, which filmed on locations including the historic Amtrak Station in downtown Orlando and the Inland Lakes Railways Station in Mount Dora, has been named BEST FLORIDA FILM at the 2009 Rhode Island International Film Festival. The production company behind the film, Stars North™, is based in Celebration, making this company another Central Florida success story. Directed by Todd Thompson, the film stars Michael Rooker, Bill Cobbs and Betsy Brantley. It follows the story of a man traveling home to claim his father's inheritance when he meets a stranger who seems to know everything about his life. Smithy Sipes co-produced the film with Thompson, who also penned the screenplay with the help of co-writer Peter Raymundo. The EDC's Film & Entertainment Commission worked with filmmakers throughout production, assisting with site location and permitting.

UCF and Embry-Riddle Team To Train Simulation Professionals

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 09:44:17 -0500

Students from the University of Central Florida (UCF) and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University will have a new modeling and simulation post-bachelors program to choose from later this fall. This is good news for Metro Orlando, as it further bolsters our region as the nation's hub for the modeling, simulation and training industry. The two-year, online Professional Science Master's program will have two components: UCF will offer 36 credit hours and Embry-Riddle, through its Worldwide Campus, will offer 18 credit hours toward the program. Graduates also qualify for Embry-Riddle's certificate in modeling and simulation management. Equivalent to an MBA for business majors, this curriculum will not only provide business education for science majors and enhanced training for our incumbent workforce, but is also designed to build close connections to the professional world through required internships and an industry advisory board that will help design the course offerings. As with every advancement that strengthens our skilled workforce, this is viewed as an important addition to the region's economic development arsenal. The two universities designed the program for working professionals who wish to expand their knowledge and skills in this growing field. Most will pursue the degree as part-time students and the online format is perfect for this. Program graduates also qualify for Embry-Riddle's certificate in modeling and simulation management. Eventually, the collaborative program will produce 1,000 graduates to help fill positions in industries including biotechnology, environment and sustainability, forensic science, homeland security, health care and simulation. Click here for more information.

Orlando's Got Talent

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:01:59 -0500

There's Mosaic, Arcadian Broad and Drew Thomas Magic. If you're not familiar with these names, they're among the folks that made it to the Top 40 in the popular America's Got Talent show. They have something else in common. They all come from a city where creative talent is building ... and in the eyes of Richard Florida (of the popular 'Creative Class' theory), that's one of the key ingredients to economic competitiveness, transformation and innovation. Orlando, Florida, has become a place where creative talent is flowing and in multiple industries. The region, long known as an entertainment destination, has transformed into a technology hub that's entertaining company leaders, researchers, entrepreneurs, workers and young minds alike. Here are some reasons why:

This week, Orlando welcomed its inaugural class of 41 med students at the University of Central Florida's (UCF) new College of Medicine -- the first medical school in U.S. history to offer full, four-year scholarships to an entire class. The new college is one anchor in a new 'medical city' underway - one of only two such developments happening in the world right now. It's joined by the recently opened East Coast hub for The Burnham Institute for Medical Research, and forthcoming openings of the University of Florida Research Facility, Veterans Affairs Hospital, M.D. Anderson Cancer Research Institute and Nemours Children's Hospital. Economic analysts predict that by year 10 of operation, the world's newest life sciences cluster here could create 30,000 jobs and $7.6 billion economic activity.

At UCF, research and patents are on the rise. UCF, now the fifth largest university in the nation, has seen research funding (and subsequent lab space) grow exponentially in the past decade, from $37.5 million in 1999 to the new record high of $122.8 million in 2008. Additionally, UCF's patent portfolio was ranked in the top 10 of 122 universities in the U.S.

Inventors, scientists and entrepreneurs are thriving here. New drugs, therapies and vaccines are being developed ... one scientist is genetically modifying lettuce heads to produce insulin in the quest to develop a cure for diabetes. An entrepreneur has developed ultra-portable personal air-conditioners for military personnel. Another is developing advanced micro-batteries for use in medical, alternative energy and other applications. In addition, the number of incubators has grown rapidly here, opening the door to more entrepreneurs.

A new Photonics Academy was created at a local high school in partnership with Northrop Grumman to encourage student interest in the laser/photonics field. This new academy joins others already in existence, including one focusing on simulation (an industry with a top-ranked cluster in Orlando).

Nation-leading digital media schools in Orlando-- Full Sail University and UCF's Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy -- continue to see enrollment grow in this burgeoning field.

Entrepreneur Magazine recently recognized Orlando as one of best places to start a business. Forbes recently recognized Orlando one of best cities for tech jobs. And Next Generation Consulting ranked Orlando as a top hot spot for young professionals.

Partnership: The Business of UCF

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 09:37:46 -0500

It is with great pride that Metro Orlando witnesses the opening of the University of Central Florida's College of Medicine today, Monday, August 3rd, a monumental event that will help define the future of our region. But as we commemorate this historic first, we should also remember that this is only the latest in almost five decades of impact that our hometown university has had on building our local economy. Last week's CEO Roundtable luncheon, a quarterly event of the Metro Orlando EDC, featured Dr. John Hitt, president of the University of Central Florida (UCF). Dr. Hitt focused his remarks on how the university has partnered with business to create a stronger economy. The more than 100 local CEO's in attendance learned what has earned UCF its reputation as "America's leading partnership university." From preparing the workforce needed by local companies; to shaping the research and curriculums that have attracted simulation, digital media, photonics, energy, and now life science companies to our region; to incubating entrepreneurial companies until they are ready to stand on their own; to unique partnerships with the U.S. Department of Defense and with mega-companies like Siemens and Burnham ... this region has been in a large part shaped by the strengths and leadership of the University of Central Florida. Now the fifth largest university in the nation, UCF has come a long way since it opened as Florida Technological University (FTU) in 1963. Dr. Hitt perhaps summed the significance of this institution up best when he stated, "When you look at what we've accomplished already, there is no limit to the possibilities."

"Edgy" Orlando

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:00:42 -0500

Believe it or not, there are some people out there who don't believe Metro Orlando is "edgy" enough for them. Those of us who live and work here know better. And a new Web landing page developed by the EDC's marketing team is designed to show the dynamic nature of this community through the eyes of those who know it best: A robust downtown night life. A rich arts underground. Off-the-beaten path enclaves. Year-round outdoor activities. Diverse people from diverse backgrounds with diverse interests. Many EDC investors have contributed to this undertaking, which we've deemed "Orlando Rocks." The promotional portal links to specially designed Twitter, Flickr, and YouTube accounts, as well as providing an array of other information that gives a close-up look at what sets our region apart - from Mt. Dora to St. Cloud, and all points in between. While developed in response to a specific client request, the new format will have many uses as we work to promote Metro Orlando as a place that is "putting imagination to work." Click here to take a look ... and feel free to add to the conversation and images.

New Photonics Academy Created

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 13:15:36 -0500

As a nationally recognized leader in the optics and photonics industry, Metro Orlando is home to a strong and qualified workforce in this specialized realm. Much of this national prominence is thanks to the University of Central Florida's College of Optics & Photonics - one of the world's top graduate institutions in this field - and its two research centers: the Center for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers (CREOL) and the Florida Photonics Center for Excellence (FPCE), which offers masters and doctoral degrees. Despite this distinct advantage, skilled workers are still in high demand for this growing industry. In particular, there remains a strong need for qualified workers with two-year degrees to work as laser technicians, both here in Central Florida and across the U.S. But help is on the way! Tired of spending money to recruit technicians from out-of-state, Northrop Grumman Laser Systems is working with other local companies, your EDC, Valencia Community College (VCC) and Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) to address the workforce dilemna. The result ... the new Photonics Academy at Wekiva High School. Through the Academy--slated to begin classes in the 2009-2010 school year--students interested in careers as laser/photonics technicians will be dual enrolled at Wekiva High School and VCC. Upon graduation from high school, students will also receive their A.S. degree in photonics from VCC, allowing graduates to immediately enter the workforce with a high-tech skill set. Many local photonics companies also plan to offer tuition assistance programs to existing employees, enabling their technicians to earn the training and degrees they need with little or no out-of-pocket expense. According to the Florida Photonics Cluster, an industry trade association based in Orlando, about 150 area companies employ a total of 170 photonics technicians. Such jobs typically pay between $45,000 and $70,000 annually. The goal of the Academny is to fill the 20 to 40 photonics technician jobs created in Central Florida annually. The newly created Photonics Academy is another great example of what makes Metro Orlando the nation's Center for Excellence in Optics & Photonics. For more information, click here.

Orlando Tops the Charts

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 04:00:00 -0500

Orlando has received a plethora of accolades lately. From a "top place to start a business" to "where the jobs are" to "best place to live" and beyond. Here are a few of the rankings Orlando has received: Entrepreneur magazine named Orlando as one of the "top ten places to start a business." Money magazine ranks Lake County, FL #8 on their newest list of "where the jobs are," a compilation of the 25 counties that have experienced the most job growth over the last eight years. The cities of Lake Mary and Oviedo are named among Money magazine's "Top 100 Best Places to Live" in the magazine's list of America's best small towns. Forbes names Orlando a "best city for technology jobs", noting: "Where is the tech-sector growth? It's in less-celebrated areas of the country...By region, the fastest gainers turned out to be places like Orlando, Fla." Florida ranks fourth in the nation in terms of high-tech employment, with 20,000 doctoral scientists and engineers and more than 276,000 high-tech workers, according to a report by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Global Intellectual Property Center. Orlando is a "hotspot for young professionals" to live and work in the U.S. according to Next Generation Consulting. Since 1998, Next Generation Consulting has studied the relocation patterns of 20-40 year olds. Young professionals increasingly look for quality of life factors when deciding where to live. Next Generation Consulting ranked the cities based on a combined index of opportunities for earning, learning, vitality, around town, after hours, cost of lifestyle and social capital. For more Metro Orlando rankings, click here.

Orlando, FL - Home to Darden Restaurants HQ

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 15:27:40 -0500

Metro Orlando has a lot to be proud of in our own Darden Restaurants. The Orange County-headquartered company was recently deemed "the most successful restaurant chain in the world" by FastCompany.com and named one of the nation's "best companies for diversity" by Black Enterprise. The operator of Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Bahama Breeze, Season's 52, Capital Grille, and Longhorn Steakhouse was noted for the leadership that has helped the casual dining chain continue to grow, and hire, despite tough economic times. The growth of Darden mirrors the growth of Central Florida, which this company has called home since Bill Darden opened the first Red Lobster in 1968. Darden's popular concept was eventually acquired by General Mills; the company was re-named in his honor when it spun off from General Mills in May 1995,at that time becoming a publicly-traded company. The chain has since grown to Fortune 500 status, currently ranked #374 and the only Orlando-headquartered company on that list. Last year, Darden solidified its ties to our region, moving into an all-new, expanded campus on Lake Ellenor Drive in South Orange County. Though by far the largest, Darden is not the only restaurant chain headquartered here. Sonny's Real Pit BBQ, based in Maitland, operates 137 restaurants in nine states. Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, which moved their headquarters to Lake Mary in 2004, operates 132 restaurants in the U.S. and abroad. And the growing Tijuana Flats chain now has locations in Virginia, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Indiana, as well as throughout Florida. The presence of all these great corporate headquarters is good for our economy and good for our community. We are proud that they call Metro Orlando home.

Success Around Orlando

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 11:25:58 -0500

Signs of economic development success have been seen on many fronts the past couple of weeks. Here is a round up of images reflecting some of the highlights. Game Launched Florida Governor Charlie Crist got an up-close look at our region's booming digital media industry. He visited Electronic Arts' (EA) Tiburon (pictured above) in Maitland - getting a preview of EA's highly-anticipated NCAA Football 10, which was released last week; the University of Central Florida's (UCF) Center for Emerging Media in downtown Orlando - chatting with students and visiting the House of Moves motion capture studio; and the Employ Florida Digital Media Banner Center located at Seminole Community College's Center for Economic Development in Heathrow. Dirt Flew New ground was broken at the Central Florida Research Park recently, as representatives from the University of Central Florida, Florida Legislature and Orlando-based military commands gathered to celebrate the start of construction on the Partnership III building. When complete in fall 2010, this building will be shared by UCF and the military, and home to the UCF Institute for Simulation & Training. It will also be "green"; as Partnership III is designed to meet at least the silver level of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards. To watch the UCF Reports YouTube video on the project, click here. Film Wrapped DNP Studios wrapped production on the feature film Letters to God, scheduled for release in early 2010. The film, which employed over 100 local crew and talent, was shot at multiple locations in Orlando, including Universal Studios Florida, Winter Garden and Kissimmee. The EDC's Film & Entertainment Commission assisted with scouting, permitting and other support services.

Florida's Digital Media Industry is Ahead of the "Game"

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 08:25:30 -0500

Digital media industry leaders, including the EDC's vice president of technology and entertainment Suzy Spang, recently gathered at Digital Media Alliance of Florida's (DMAF) quarterly Digital Media Seminar (DiMeNar) hosted by Full Sail University to discuss the latest trends and developments in the industry and their impacts on Florida's digital media businesses and professionals. The result of the discussion? Florida is clearly ahead of the "game" when it comes to digital media and the Metro Orlando region is on path to our goal of "world domination" in this industry sector! Already a leader in digital media, Metro Orlando is home to industry resources such as DMAF and the Employ Florida Banner Center for Digital Media. In addition, companies such as Electronic Arts (EA) Tiburon, n-Space, and Helios Interactive - a full-service game development studio and 3D software technology company - call Orlando home. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer was also on hand at DiMeNar to kick off the international product launch of Helios Interactive's flagship product, GameCore 2.0. This new technology is designed to create full 3D games, virtual worlds and other interactive 3D content without the traditional barriers of complex technology, programming expertise and high development cost. It is thought that this product could revolutionize the 3D game and simulation industry. Helios' launch is a sign of the ongoing evolution of Orlando as THE place for digital media companies.

Innovation Orlando - Call for Nominations

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:22:11 -0500

Successful innovation is a driving force behind expanding and diversifying our economy. Every day in Metro Orlando, innovative local companies are putting imagination to work - pioneering new products, solving problems creatively, partnering in previously untried ways. Those are the success stories that our annual Innovation Awards program is designed to uncover and celebrate. We need your help in identifying these companies and their innovations. The EDC is now seeking nominations for our 2009 William C. Schwartz Industry Innovation Awards, which will honor one innovative company from each county in the region - Orange, Seminole, Lake, Osceola - as well as the City of Orlando. Awards will be announced at a luncheon on Thursday, September 17th at the Sheraton Orlando North in Maitland. Click here for more information and to download the nomination form. Deadline for nominations is 5:00 p.m. on July 31st.

"Orlando Declaration" Garners Int'l Attention

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:00:39 -0500

When our region played host to the annual meeting of the International Stock Exchange Executives Emeriti (ISEEE) in March, the realization of having some of the worlds' most knowledgeable and powerful financial executives gather in the community would one day pay off. We just didn't realize how soon. When the current and former stock exchange execs met here, for the second year in a row, their wide-ranging discussion led to development of a document recommending eleven actions to be taken to help spur global market recovery. That document - titled the "Orlando Declaration" - was released via the ISEEE website recently, and word quickly spread. These recommended actions cover a broad spectrum of capital market issues, including such areas as: governance issues; regulatory independence; remuneration and incentives for financial executives; responsibilities of regulators and government policy makers; transparency; clarity and accuracy of descriptive language for financial markets; national government oversight of financial risk assessment; deposit protection; and open, explicit government policy. ISEE participants intend to return here in Spring 2010, so future "Orlando Declarations" are expected. To view the document in its entirety, click here.

Companies Fly Into Orlando Sanford International Airport

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:30:32 -0500

Things at Orlando Sanford International Airport are taking off, in more ways than one. The Father's Table, a dessert manufacturer based in Sanford, announced that it will expand into an 118,000-square-foot facility near the airport. The growing company will make apple dumplings and swiss cake rolls at this location, while maintaining their cheesecake business in their original location. The expansion will create 30 new full-time and 20 seasonal jobs and is expected to generate over $2.5 million in capital investment. Success for this company is particularly sweet, as they donate a percentage of profits to The Father's Table Foundation, which helps to fund women's & children's charities worldwide. Miami-based Avocet and sister company Aircraft Parts Sales, Inc. also recently announced that they will relocate their headquarters to OSIA. The company - which provides aviation repair and maintenance, tear down services and sales of aircraft parts - will occupy temporary space on airport property while a new 44,000-square-foot hanger is being built. Avocet's anticipated capital investment is more than $5 million. The EDC and Seminole Community College are currently working to help the company secure a Quick Response Training Grant, which will help them hire and train 150 new employees, primarily mechanics who will earn an average of over $45,000 annually. Seminole's Board of County Commissioners has focused on the airport as a top economic development priority. That focus appears to be paying dividends. According to Maria Arellano, Avocet general manager: "We were being recruited by other locations in and outside of Florida. Orlando Sanford Airport was extremely accommodating in meeting the needs of our company and this played a big part in why we choose Metro Orlando for our new home."