In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2024 Florida Rural Economic Development Summit at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. He sits down with Wes Hudgens, Lead Project Manager at Florida Power & Light’s (FPL) Office of Economic Development, to discuss FPL’s role in driving business growth across the state.

Wes shares insights into FPL’s innovative initiatives, including the 35 Mules incubator program and the WonderFL campaign, which aims to reshape perceptions of Florida by highlighting career opportunities and quality of life. The conversation also covers FPL’s commitment to supporting small businesses through valuable resources, partnerships with organizations like the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and strategic programs designed to fuel economic development in Florida’s rural and urban communities. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Summit hosted at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

Connect with Our Guest: Learn more about FPL’s Economic Development Programs

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2024 Florida Rural Economic Development Summit at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. He is joined by Erica Sittler, Account Director at MWB, a full-service marketing firm specializing in tourism, economic development, and healthcare.

Erica shares her journey in the marketing industry and her passion for supporting economic development in Florida’s rural communities. The discussion explores the opportunities and challenges these areas face, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning, infrastructure development, and long-term vision. Erica also highlights the growing appeal of small-town living—what she calls a "rural renaissance"—and how marketing plays a crucial role in attracting both talent and businesses to these communities. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Summit hosted at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

Connect with Our Guest: Learn more about MWB

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Rod Jaeger, owner and operator of DC Jaeger Corporation, at the 2024 Florida Rural Economic Development Summit held at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. The discussion focuses on the vital role of workforce education and training in Florida’s rural communities.

Rod shares the history of DC Jaeger Corporation, founded by his father in 1957, and its evolution from serving the space industry to becoming a leader in vocational and workforce training. The company provides technical training equipment and curriculum to schools and colleges across Florida, supporting the resurgence of skilled trades education in high schools.

The conversation also highlights Florida’s commitment to workforce development by 2030, the innovative training programs at Indian River State College, and how Rod’s family business continues to grow with the involvement of his two sons. The episode concludes with insights on how workforce education is shaping Florida’s future and how businesses can connect with DC Jaeger Corporation. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Rural Economic Development Summit hosted at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

Connect with Our Guest: Learn more about DC Jaeger Corporation