Sarasota County Economic Development Corporation: Growing & Diversifying the Economy of Sarasota County

The Sarasota County Economic Development Corporation is the only organization focused solely on growing and diversifying the economy of Sarasota County. It is a mission-driven nonprofit whose work to help companies expand and establish here creates new jobs, contributes to the local economy and its tax base, and reduces vulnerability to external shocks that can undermine the community’s long-term economic health.

The EDC became a stand-alone organization in 2004 when the Sarasota County business community asked the Sarasota County Commission to create a local business license tax to fund an organization focused specifically on attracting and growing local businesses, especially in sectors other than those that typically drive the local economy. Therefore, the EDC focuses its efforts on sectors such as manufacturing, corporate headquarters, technology, life sciences, professional services, and the creative industries.

Functioning as a concierge, the EDC provides expert guidance and a suite of services to relocating and growing businesses, ranging from economic data and policy insight to referrals for everything from financing assistance to commercial real estate. It also works to educate the community through local events and online channels, providing vital information to help businesses plan and make decisions.

To ensure world-class services and support, the EDC collaborates closely with many local organizations, from Visit Sarasota County to local chambers and governments, workforce training organizations and educational institutions.

To learn more about starting growing or relocating your business, visit: www.edcsarasotacounty.com