MISSION To provide a forum and build a community or “Alliance” among the Residents, Businesses, and Governments of the downtown Sarasota districts. VISION A vibrant and thriving Downtown Sarasota community. DESCRIPTION The Alliance studies issues and takes a position on policy matters that reflect the constituency of our Residents, Business and Governments. We ask the community to “Take the Pledge”. Read more...

MISSION The Early Learning Coalition prepares children for lifelong success through quality early learning. VISION Every child develops a strong foundation of learning in a community dedicated to ensure all families have the necessary support to thrive and all children reach their full potential. DESCRIPTION The Early Learning Coalition provides administration and oversight of the local, integrated system of early Read more...

MISSION To grow, diversify, and sustain the economy of Sarasota County while enhancing our unique, natural and cultural environment. DESCRIPTION The EDC of Sarasota County is a non-profit organization whose mission is to grow, diversify and sustain the economy of Sarasota County while enhancing our unique natural and cultural environment. In existence since 2004, the public-private organization works to help Read more...

MISSION To enhance the potential of students, promote excellence in teaching, and inspire innovation in education, guided by strategic philanthropy. VISION Our vision is to unite the community to prepare each and every student for life. DESCRIPTION The Education Foundation of Sarasota County was established in 1988 as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that champions public education in Sarasota County. For over 30 years, we Read more...

MISSION Dedicated to Leading Economic Growth with a Balanced Voice between Local Businesses, Residents and Tourism that Creates Opportunities for our Community. DESCRIPTION The Englewood Florida Chamber of Commerce is the community’s go-to resource for visitors, residents, and businesses! Englewood is unique in that its only local governance is split between Charlotte and Sarasota counties. The Chamber works to bridge Read more...

MISSION The FDFC is designated as a state-wide, special development financing authority for economic development purposes. Our purpose is to assist new and existing businesses and organizations (for-profit and not-for-profit) with access to capital through financing that promotes business activity, job creation, and an improved standard of living for the citizens of Florida. DESCRIPTION The FDFC supports economic development by Read more...

MISSION As a federally regulated Certified Development Company (CDC), our primary mission is economic development and job creation throughout Florida and currently parts of South Alabama and Georgia. DESCRIPTION Founded by the State of Florida in 1983 and licensed since 1984 by the Small Business Administration (SBA) as a Certified Development Company, First Capital FinanceFlorida First Capital is chartered for Read more...

MISSION As the largest energy company in Florida and one of the state’s largest employers, we believe we have a responsibility to advance the state’s economic development activities. DESCRIPTION As America’s largest electric utility, Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) serves more customers and sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to more than 5.7 Read more...

MISSION Florida is one of the most diverse states in the U.S. At FPL, we celebrate diversity and know it is an important driver of strong economic growth. DESCRIPTION Minority Business Resources Minority business owners can face unique challenges throughout their business journey – from getting started to scaling for growth. The good news is that many organizations throughout Florida Read more...

MISSION Changing Lives Through the Power of Work DESCRIPTION Goodwill Manasota is part of a social enterprise that began in 1902 and is committed to providing employment, training, and upskilling opportunities for individuals facing significant barriers to self-sufficiency, such as disadvantaging or disabling conditions. Our mission stands on the conviction of Goodwill’s founder, Reverend Edgar J. Helms, who believed that Read more...