FloridaMakes reaches $5 billion economic impact after ten years supporting manufacturers

Kevin Carr Chief Executive Officer at Floridamakes Floridamakes
Kevin Carr Chief Executive Officer at Floridamakes - Floridamakes
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FloridaMakes has announced it has surpassed $5 billion in total economic impact, a milestone reached as the organization marks its tenth year supporting Florida’s manufacturing sector. The announcement was made during FloridaMakes’ annual board meeting and anniversary celebration.

According to figures reported by the organization for the first quarter of 2025, FloridaMakes has contributed $3.6 billion in new and retained sales, $1 billion in new investment, and $331 million in cost savings for manufacturers across the state. In addition, its efforts have resulted in the creation and retention of 27,884 jobs.

“These numbers reflect more than just dollars—they represent real businesses growing, investing, and creating opportunities in our communities,” said John Krug, Director of Economic Development at Niagara Bottling and Chair of the FloridaMakes Board of Directors. “Crossing the $5 billion mark is a testament to what strong partnerships and a commitment to Florida’s manufacturers can achieve.”

Since 2015, FloridaMakes has served as the state’s official representative within the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) National Network. The organization provides services aimed at helping manufacturers innovate, improve productivity, and remain competitive globally.

“As we celebrate ten years of impact, this milestone underscores the value of FloridaMakes as a catalyst for economic development,” said Kevin Carr, CEO of FloridaMakes. “The success belongs to our partners, clients, and the broader manufacturing ecosystem that powers our state.”

FloridaMakes continues working with both public and private partners to maintain Florida’s position as a leader in manufacturing growth, workforce development initiatives, and strengthening supply chain resilience.

FloridaMakes operates as a statewide public-private partnership focused on improving competitiveness and productivity within Florida’s manufacturing sector. Its work emphasizes support for small- and medium-sized firms through technical assistance and objective advice. As part of its role representing the MEP National Network—an initiative led by the National Institute of Standards and Technology under the U.S. Department of Commerce—the organization delivers programs designed to boost technological performance among manufacturers throughout Florida.

For more information about FloridaMakes’ mission or programs visit https://www.floridamakes.com/.



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