FL Commerce News 2026

Small Cities CDBG Funding Available

FloridaCommerce announced funding availability through the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program for the 2026 funding cycle. Applications must be received by May 5, 2026, for Neighborhood Revitalization, Housing Rehabilitation, Commercial Revitalization, and Economic Development projects. The program is funded by HUD and administered by FloridaCommerce, which has awarded over $157 million to 140+ communities since 2019.

FloridaCommerce announces community planning funding available

FloridaCommerce announced availability of Community Planning and Technical Assistance (CPTA) grant funding for eligible communities including Rural Areas of Opportunity, municipalities, counties, and Regional Planning Councils. The program supports innovative planning solutions for economic development, resiliency strategies, and critical local planning issues. The application deadline is May 1, 2026.

Florida Businesses Set Record High Export Sales in 2025

FloridaCommerce and SelectFlorida announced Florida businesses exported $78.9 billion in 2025, an 8.9% increase from 2024 and a record high. Bilateral merchandise trade totaled $205 billion. SelectFlorida supported 1,463 businesses since July 2025, generating over $486 million in sales at international trade shows.

Storm recovery grants awarded to Florida communities

FloridaCommerce awarded over $1.5 million in storm recovery grants to eight Florida communities through the Rebuild Florida 2023 and 2024 Storms Hazard Mitigation Grant Match Program. Funds support critical infrastructure projects including generator installations, facility hardening, and flood risk reduction measures. Awards require a 25% local match and target communities affected by Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene, Milton, and 2024 North Florida Tornadoes.

Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Program Reaches Milestone

Florida has awarded over 10,000 bonuses of $5,000 each through its Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Program. The initiative, launched in 2022, has distributed over $67.9 million to date to support new officers relocating to the state.

Florida Awards $9M for Workforce and Infrastructure Development

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis awarded over $9 million in grants for workforce and infrastructure development. The funding will support a new Commercial Driver's License training facility in Bradford County and roadway construction for an industrial site in Nassau County. Nassau County was also designated a Rural Area of Opportunity.

Florida Awards $13M for Infrastructure Development

Governor Ron DeSantis awarded over $13 million through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund to support infrastructure development for the aerospace, aviation, and maritime industries in Panama City, Port St. Joe, and Gulf County. These funds are intended to create jobs and attract investment.

Florida Awards $167.5M for Rural Infrastructure Improvements

Governor Ron DeSantis announced $167.5 million in awards to improve infrastructure in 34 Florida rural communities. The funding, from the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery and Rural Infrastructure Fund, will support recovery from 2023-2024 storms and enhance long-term resilience.

Florida Expands Partnership with Germany

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and German Ambassador Jens Hanefeld signed a Joint Declaration of Intent to expand cooperation between Florida and Germany. The agreement focuses on key sectors including innovative technologies, aerospace, manufacturing, life sciences, and workforce training, building on existing trade relationships.

FloridaCommerce, SelectFlorida, FIBA Host Pitch Day for Israeli Tech Companies

FloridaCommerce, SelectFlorida, and the Florida-Israel Business Accelerator hosted a pitch day showcasing seven Israeli technology companies to Florida policymakers and investors. This event aims to foster collaboration and drive innovation, building on a partnership that has supported over 130 startups to date.

Florida Awards Over $8M for Infrastructure and Workforce Training

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis awarded over $8 million through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund to Palm Beach State College, Melbourne Orlando International Airport, and Broward College. These funds will support infrastructure investments and expand workforce training programs in high-demand industries across the state.

FloridaCommerce Launches Opportunity Zone 2.0 Tour

FloridaCommerce has launched the Opportunity Zone 2.0 Tour to encourage communities to submit recommendations for the next designation cycle. The initiative aims to help rural and low-income communities attract private investment and economic growth.