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For years, economic development was defined by what a community could build—its infrastructure, land, and incentives to attract business. Today, that definition has shifted. The communities gaining ground are those investing in people. Talent is no longer one piece of the puzzle—it is the foundation.

In Sarasota, we are leaning into that reality with intention. The 2025 CareerEdge Evaluation makes it clear: in the past year, 447 workers were trained, 540 industry-recognized certifications were earned, and 217 individuals achieved wage increases through targeted workforce investments. These are not just statistics. They represent individuals gaining skills, advancing careers, and strengthening their futures. And the impact extends well beyond the individual.

Those wage gains—more than $2.5 million annually—generate an estimated $3.85 million in broader economic impact across our region. Increased earnings fuel local businesses, support families, and contribute to a more resilient economy. This is what modern economic development looks like.

CareerEdge is intentionally employer-driven. We are working directly with businesses across healthcare, manufacturing, skilled trades, and transportation to address real workforce needs. When training aligns with demand, results follow: higher wages, stronger retention, improved productivity, and a more competitive region. The return on investment is undeniable. For every dollar invested in workforce upskilling, the return exceeds $9. That is not just a strong outcome—it is a clear signal that workforce belongs at the center of any serious economic development strategy.

Equally important is who we are reaching. In 2025, CareerEdge expanded its focus to individuals starting at lower wage levels—those with the greatest opportunity for upward mobility. As individuals move into higher-paying, high-demand careers, the benefits compound: reduced reliance on public assistance, increased tax contributions, and stronger long-term stability. This is not short-term progress. Many programs span 18 months, with outcomes continuing to improve over time. Sustained wage growth, promotions, and long-term advancement are becoming the norm. Across Sarasota, employers consistently identify talent—not capital or customers—as their number one challenge.

At the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, we are helping build the conditions for long-term success. Because when businesses can find and retain talent, they grow. When individuals access meaningful career pathways, they thrive. And when both happen together, Sarasota moves forward. The path ahead is clear: invest in scalable, employer-driven workforce solutions, strengthen business and education partnerships, and focus on measurable outcomes. This is how we prepare the next generation—and ensure Sarasota remains a place where businesses succeed, talent thrives, and opportunity is within reach for all.

For more information on how CareerEdge and the Sarasota Chamber are building the workforce of tomorrow, visit www.careeredgefunders.org or www.sarasotachamber.com

Written by Heather Kasten and Dan Sidler.

Heather Kasten is the President/CEO of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Dan Sidler serves as the Vice President of CareerEdge and Economic Development and Kevin Golumbeck serves as the Director of CareerEdge. The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to cultivate Sarasota's prosperity and quality of life through our member businesses, for more information, please call (941) 955-8187 or visit us at www.sarasotachamber.com

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