May 01, 2024
5 min
Florida was again named the No. 1 state for higher education by U.S. News & World Report. Since the inception of the rankings in 2017, Florida has been at the top.
Foreign Direct Investment in Florida
As one of the top destinations for business investment in North America, Florida is an ideal destination for international businesses looking to expand in the U.S. The state's strategic location, world-class infrastructure and pro-business climate make it an easy choice. Specialized industries span advanced manufacturing, information technology and logistics and distribution. Florida provides the workforce, connectivity, and support to help businesses succeed.
With a skilled talent pipeline and direct access to over customers globally, Florida’s economy fuels innovation and global commerce. Here, companies can expand with confidence.
FDI in Florida Fast Facts
266,000 Floridians are employed by majority-owned U.S. affiliates of foreign companies.
In 2024, Florida exported $72.2 billion in goods, a 23% increase from 2014.
Florida ranks as the 6th highest state for foreign direct investment in the U.S.
Florida ranks 5th in the U.S. for employees attributed to majority foreign-owned firms.
Growing in Florida
Florida is more than a gateway to the United States. It’s a launchpad for global growth. Companies from over 100 countries already operate here, using Florida’s strengths in international trade, economic development and innovation to grow their global presence. Major Foreign Trade Zones can be found in Miami, Jacksonville, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando and Palm Beach, making up the 6th largest FTZ network in the United States and connecting businesses directly to global markets.
Florida’s FDI Advantage
Companies choose Florida for more than the sunshine and quality of life. They pick Florida because its strategic location, pro-business climate and talent network deliver real advantages.
Location and Infrastructure
With 14 deepwater seaports, 19 commercial airports, five spaceports and an extensive highway and rail network, Florida ensures that goods, services and people move efficiently across global markets. Whether you’re connecting with Latin America, Europe, or Asia, Florida keeps your business within reach of the world.
Taxes and Incentives
Florida is known for having one of the most favorable tax climates in the nation, helping businesses keep more of what they earn. The state offers competitive corporate tax rates along with performance-based grants and incentive programs that reward job creation, capital investment and economic development achievements. With these advantages, multinational and startup companies alike can establish and grow operations with confidence and financial efficiency.
Continuous Talent
Florida’s workforce is fueled by top universities, technical colleges and training programs. Ranked #1 in higher education, Florida continuously produces skilled, multilingual talent for industries from technology to manufacturing. This diverse workforce gives international companies in Florida the adaptability, innovation and cultural fluency to succeed in global markets.
Additional Resources
International Investment Resources
Florida is one of the top U.S. destinations for foreign direct investment (FDI) with new business investments from around the world pouring into the state every year. Florida’s stable business environment, highly skilled workforce and undeniable high quality of life make it one of the best states for business.
Build Your Workforce
Workforce services organizations like Employ Florida and CareerSource Florida provide one-stop employment services to help you find the ideal candidate. Employ Florida allows you to access résumés of thousands of qualified candidates and match your job postings and skill requirements with candidates. They offer 100+ career centers to help job seekers and businesses and offer options to assist those with disabilities.
Florida’s International Offices
SelectFlorida maintains a network of representative offices outside the United States, spanning all continents except Australia. The main purpose of these offices is to assist companies from other countries interested in investing in Florida, as well as provide help to Florida companies exporting to foreign markets.
WonderFL
Explore FPL’s premiere talent attraction resource, WonderFL, for more information on Florida’s key livability factors. From diverse job opportunities across key industries to an unbeatable quality of life, Florida is the perfect fit for those starting and looking to upskill their careers.
News Room
1/2
Sep 02, 2021
1 min
Florida isn’t often thought of as a manufacturing hub, much less a high-tech medical manufacturing Mecca. A new report counters that belief, showing Florida is a major player nationally in making health care devices and related work.
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