March 2025 Newsletter

Welcome to the latest edition of the Charlotte County Economic Development newsletter! We’re excited to bring you the latest updates, success stories, and opportunities that are shaping our business community. Whether you’re looking for key insights, available properties, or connections to local resources, we’re here to support your growth in Charlotte County.

Childcare Community Conversation:  An Eye Opening Event

The Charlotte County Child Care Community Conversation brought together business leaders, policymakers, educators, and childcare providers to discuss an urgent issue—access to quality, affordable childcare. This challenge affects not just families but also businesses and the local economy.

Moving Forward: Solutions & Next Steps

This conversation was just the beginning. Participants identified several key actions to address the childcare crisis:

 ✔️Exploring employer-supported childcare solutions
 ✔️Identifying funding opportunities 
 ✔️Creating task forces 
 ✔️Launching workforce initiatives

Read the full story HERE

Your Voice Matters: Take the Survey

As a next step, the Charlotte County Economic Development Office is conducting a childcare impact survey.

If you are a business owner, HR representative, or employee, we encourage you to take the survey. Your input will guide future discussions and help create meaningful change.  With the right support, Charlotte County can become a place where businesses thrive and working families have the childcare resources they need.

March Featured Businesses:

#1  Solid Surface Tops of SWFL

This month, our Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Manager, Mark Odell, visited Solid Surface Tops of Southwest Florida, Inc., where he got an exclusive high-tech tour of their incredible facility! This brand-new facility opened in 2025 and features state-of-the-art equipment. This innovative company is redefining what’s possible in manufacturing with precision and creativity right here in Charlotte County. Their commitment to cutting-edge technology and exceptional craftsmanship sets them apart as an industry leader.

Interested in having your business featured?  Let us know!

Featured Available Property

195 Acres of Planned Development

The offering includes 482,635 SF of vested Industrial uses and up to 500 multi-family units. The property has vested approvals under the Sandhill Development of Regional Impact. The site requires no import fill, as the Desoto County property included in this offering is intended to provide the necessary on-site fill for development.  The Seller is pursuing County DO approval and water management permits. Buyer may assume all applications and permits and modify as needed.

We had a fantastic time attending the Charlotte County Chamber’s 2025 Business Expo! It was a great opportunity to connect with local businesses, showcase economic development opportunities, and engage with the community. We had fun meetings with Bert’s Black Widow Harley Davidson, Crews Bank, Charlotte Technical College, and SCORE, and so many more!   We enjoyed meaningful conversations and look forward to building on the connections made at the event. Thank you to the Chamber for hosting such a valuable gathering!

We had an amazing time meeting with Miniopolis LLC pioneers in innovative workforce housing solutions! Their commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and affordability is truly reshaping the housing landscape in Southwest Florida.  Stay tuned for more exciting collaborations!

Interested in having your business featured?  Let us know!

Charlotte County EDO Attends PB Expo 2025

Mark Odell and Kristy Sisler recently attended PBExpo 2025, connecting with top aviation and aerospace innovators. From engaging with industry-leading companies to exploring cutting-edge technology, the event reinforced Charlotte County’s position as a prime destination for business growth. As we continue to seek new opportunities, we remain committed to attracting investment and fostering innovation—because in Charlotte County, the sky isn’t the limit; it’s just the beginning!

Opening Day at Charlotte Sports Park – February 22, 2025

Baseball is back! Charlotte Sports Park kicked off Spring Training 2025 as the Tampa Bay Rays hosted the Boston Red Sox on February 22, 2025. The event was a grand celebration of America’s pastime, attended by Commissioners Constance and Tiseo, along with representatives from Integrity, Herc, Lane Valente, AM Testing, and Charlotte County Public Schools. As one of the top spring training facilities in the country, Charlotte Sports Park continues to be a hub for community engagement and baseball excitement.

Don’t forget to vote for Charlotte Sports Park as the Best Spring Training Facility for 2025!

VOTE HERE

News From Our Partners

Charlotte County businesses – here’s your chance to make an impact while gaining access to motivated young talent! The Summer Youth Employment Program, powered by CareerSource Southwest Florida, is looking for employers to host high school students (ages 15-18) for a paid summer work experience.

ELCFH is seeking applications for Board Members representing Private Sector Business Leaders, along with nominations for Gubernatorial Appointees.  All positions are filled as required by ss. 286.011 and 1002.83(2) (11), Florida Statutes (F.S.), and Article I, Section 24, Florida Constitution.

What’s the Coolest ❄️Thing Made in Florida? The Florida Chamber of Commerce wants to know! It’s time to nominate and vote for a Charlotte County company! Link below to nominate.

Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida – Port Charlotte Location – will be hosting the “Launch Your Own Business – Be Your Own Boss” Microenterprise Series Classes – April 21 to May 29th at Peachland Promenade Shopping Center.

April 3, 2025- 8 to 12

Hilton – Naples, Florida

A unique networking event designed to facilitate direct connections between vendors and government agencies! It’s not your typical trade show. Make meaningful connections and explore potential partnerships that could drive your business forward!