Decision makers, whether in business or public leadership, are tasked with absorbing an extraordinary amount of information to make the right choices for their organizations and our community. In today’s world of constant data and competing narratives, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. The real challenge is not access to information, but clarity. What truly matters? And what actually applies to me?

At the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County, we prioritize this every day. What are the most critical insights our community and business leaders need? And just as importantly, how do we cut through the noise to ensure information is clear, relevant, and actionable? The reality is your time is your most valuable resource.

Everything we do is designed with the busy decision maker in mind, delivering the right information, at the right time, in the format you prefer. That intentionality is at the core of our May 14th Economic Outlook, one of the most anticipated business events of the year in Sarasota County.

This event is not about adding more information. It is about delivering the right information. It brings together local insight, regional perspective, and real time intelligence in a way that is immediately relevant to the decisions leaders are making today.

You will hear from Bemetra Simmons, President and CEO of the Tampa Bay Partnership, who will share insights on regional growth, workforce trends, and how the Tampa Bay region is evolving. She is a recognized leader who brings together business and civic leadership to shape the region’s future.

We will also welcome Michelle Dennard, Vice President and Regional Executive of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s Jacksonville Branch. She brings a powerful, real-time perspective from business leaders across the state, insights that help inform national monetary policy. Her expertise in labor markets, inflation, and economic growth provides a valuable lens into the forces shaping today’s economy.

Together, these perspectives create something rare, clarity. Not just information, but insight you can use. Insight that helps you make better decisions, ask better questions, and move forward with greater confidence.

If you are looking for clarity in a complex environment, this is a conversation worth your time.

Erin Silk is the President and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County.

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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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One of the best parts of what we get to do at the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance (LWRBA) is celebrate new businesses as they open their doors. There’s just something about the energy and excitement that reminds you how much goes into starting something from the ground up.

Ribbon cuttings might seem simple, but they carry a lot of meaning. They’re a chance to pause and recognize the work it took to get there, and to say, “we’re glad you’re here.”

Every new business adds something to this community. They create jobs, bring new ideas and help keep our local economy moving forward. Just as important, they become part of the network that makes Lakewood Ranch feel connected. That doesn’t happen by accident — it starts with people showing up, making introductions and building relationships early on.

That’s what these celebrations are about! Not just a ribbon, but a starting point. A way to plug in, meet people in your community and feel like you’re a part of something right away.

If you’ve got a grand opening or groundbreaking in the works, we’d love to celebrate with you! Learn more about ribbon cuttings with the Alliance today: lwrba.org/ribbon-cuttings/

Brittany Lamont  is the President and CEO of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance. 

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