Building Momentum: Sarasota County’s Economy in Focus

I’d like to personally invite you to join us for our upcoming Economic Outlook, one of the most anticipated business events of the year in Sarasota County.

This annual event offers something truly unique, bringing together local economic insights, regional competitiveness trends, and a national perspective on the economy all in one room.

You’ll hear from Bemetra Simmons, President and CEO of the Tampa Bay Partnership, who will share insights on regional growth, workforce trends, and how the Tampa Bay region is strengthening its economic competitiveness. Bemetra is a recognized leader advancing community health and economic prosperity, and she plays a critical role in bringing together business and civic leaders to shape the region’s future.

We will also welcome Michelle Dennard, Vice President and Regional Executive of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s Jacksonville Branch. Michelle brings a unique business perspective gathered through real time intelligence from business leaders across the state and helps inform national monetary policy. Her insights into labor markets, inflation, and economic growth provide a valuable window into the forces shaping our economy today.

This year’s conversation comes at a particularly important moment. Recent data from the Tampa Bay Partnership’s Regional Competitiveness Report shows our region outperforming in the areas that matter most. Tampa Bay ranks among the top regions nationally for new business creation, with a business start rate well above the U.S. average, reinforcing Sarasota County’s position as a place where companies can start, scale, and succeed.

At the same time, our region continues to lead in talent attraction, ranking number one among peer metros for new residents, with most talent indicators improving year over year. Sarasota County is a direct beneficiary of this momentum, attracting high skill professionals and executives who are choosing to build both their careers and their companies here.

Innovation is also on the rise, with continued growth in advanced industries and significant increases in regional research and development investment, further positioning Sarasota County as part of a region that is increasingly competitive in technology, artificial intelligence, and high growth sectors.

Together, these speakers and insights provide an uncommon and powerful combination of local, regional, and national economic perspectives, a conversation you simply will not find anywhere else. You will gain insights to help you better understand the opportunities and challenges ahead. I hope you will join us.