Sarasota County’s tech ecosystem now has a digital hub. InnovateSarasotaCounty.com was created to serve as a modern treasure map for our growing tech and innovation community, helping people find opportunities and navigate the ecosystem. Whether you are a founder, investor, job seeker, or business leader, the site brings together the companies, resources, and connections shaping our innovation economy.

At its core, the website is about connection. It helps companies find talent, entrepreneurs find resources, and new companies understand why Sarasota County is the right place for their growing business. It sends a clear message that we are serious about building a strong, innovation-driven economy with intention.

That intention shows up across the ecosystem. Sarasota County offers a business-friendly tax environment, a strong higher-education system, a growing skilled workforce, and a quality of life that attracts people who want both career opportunity and personal fulfillment. What truly sets this region apart is collaboration. Our ecosystem is being built by community leaders working toward a shared goal of economic growth and community success.

We are also focused on science-driven innovation and the future Ocean Economy. World-class research at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is being translated into real-world solutions, new companies, and high-skill jobs. Through a partnership between Mote and the Economic Development Corporation, we are working to turn research breakthroughs into commercial success and attract companies that will grow here. This effort is helping to position Sarasota County as a world-renowned center for ocean and marine innovation.

This is a moment worth paying attention to. Whether you are launching a company, expanding a business, investing in emerging industries, or looking for your next career move, Sarasota County offers opportunity backed by momentum.

The data confirms what we are seeing.

Over the last five years, the North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton metro has grown from 350 tech companies to more than 830, a 137% increase. Tech employment has added 650 new jobs, while average annual wages have nearly doubled, rising from $65,000 to $125,000. Sarasota County leads Florida in in-migration of professionals ages 25 to 34, and in 2023 our metro led the nation in net gains of college-educated talent, with a 135% increase.

That is not coincidence.
That is a tech economy being built by design.

Find your place in the movement at www.InnovateSarasotaCounty.com.

Erin Silk, CEcD is the President & Chief Executive Officer of the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County.