From workforce development and business growth to infrastructure and investment, economic knowledge helps communities make informed decisions and prepare for the future.

At the Stand Up Rural America summit, rural economic developers and chambers of commerce from across the country came together to share ideas, tackle unique challenges, and strengthen the partnerships that help rural communities thrive.

Throwing it back to a great day of collaboration and connection in Dixie County! Earlier this month, NFEDP brought together investors, community leaders and regional partners for our October 2nd Board & General Membership Meeting.

Join 350+ industry leaders, elected officials and change-makers for three days of connection, collaboration and conversations centered around rural economic development. Sponsorship deadline: October 26. Learn more and secure your sponsorship at floridaruraleda.org/rural-su…

Our latest Investor Board Meeting to discuss ongoing initiatives, regional opportunities and the work ahead. Thank you to our investors for your continued partnership and commitment to North Florida’s growth, and a special thank you to Dixie County for hosting us!

Growth looks good in North Florida. 🌱 From new investments and expanding businesses to stronger infrastructure and growing opportunities, momentum is building across our region.

Construction is moving forward on a new Hampton Inn & Suites along US Highway 129. The new hotel will feature 123 rooms, a fitness center, breakfast area, outdoor pool and meeting space, adding another valuable asset for visitors, businesses and the surrounding community.

Across rural Florida, there’s room for businesses, communities and people to build what’s next. With available sites, a strong workforce, strategic infrastructure and communities ready to welcome new investment, the opportunities for growth continue to expand.

We were excited to be in Lafayette County this past weekend- the next community in our Rural Renaissance/downtown revitalization initiative. Community members came together, putting that commitment into action and showing the pride they have in the place they call home.

Recently, Governor Ron DeSantis announced nearly $15.6 million in funding for 23 small and rural communities across Florida. The funding will support critical infrastructure investments, community development projects and planning efforts across rural Florida.

Business growth is in our nature. 🌱 From supporting existing industries to welcoming new investment, NFEDP works alongside our regional partners to help create opportunities that strengthen businesses and communities alike.

Strategic infrastructure is one of North Florida’s greatest advantages, and rural North Florida offers a competitive location for businesses looking toward the future. #NFEDP #EconomicDevelopment #RuralEconomicDevelopment #Infrastructure

NFEDP stakeholders, partners and Williston Regional Airport Steering Committee members recently came together for an in-depth briefing on the final draft of the Williston Regional Airport Workforce Capacity and Target Industry Study.

Today, we pause to remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and honor the courage of the first responders, service members, and everyday Americans who came together in the face of tragedy. May we never forget. #September11 #NeverForget #PatriotDay

Building tomorrow’s workforce starts with investing in people today. Through collaboration between employers, educators, workforce partners and communities, we can continue preparing North Florida’s workforce for the opportunities ahead.

The City of Williston has been awarded a $400,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) to support the development of two of Williston’s most significant economic assets: the Williston Regional Airport and its Industrial Park.

This Labor Day, we celebrate the hardworking people whose skills, dedication, and determination keep North Florida moving forward.

A great moment for North Florida! 👏 NFEDP was honored to receive a Community Planning Technical Assistance Grant in Lake City. We’re grateful for this investment and the opportunities it will support across our region! #NFEDP #NorthFlorida #EconomicDevelopment

Why Rural North Florida? Because growth needs the right environment. North Florida offers the resources businesses need to establish, expand, and succeed. bit.ly/4bxwolk

A major milestone for the North Florida Mega Industrial Park! 👏 AgroLiquid, the Park’s first tenant, is officially up and running at its new manufacturing and distribution facility after breaking ground in spring 2024 and loading its first products this past spring.