Economic Development

Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce-Economic Impact Division (formerly known as the Economic Development Council)

Founded in 1992, the Economic Development Council (EDC) was a public-private partnership that focused on business retention, business recruitment, and improving the physical environment and infrastructure of the Greater Plant City area. The program included disseminating demographic information, assisting business expansion, attracting new businesses, and monitoring relevant legislation.

The EDC’s Business Retention and Recruitment Programs included compiling and providing demographic packages and industrial lists, providing problem solving assistance, interacting with various government officials and agencies, and monitoring the corporate business climate. Additionally, the Business Recruitment Program included working with the Tampa Bay Partnership in its industry and business location program and coordinating similar efforts with the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation. The program also assisted new corporate location through the review process, financial arrangements, government incentives, and workforce preparedness and infrastructure issues.

As part of their business retention program, the Plant City Chamber of Commerce renamed the EDC the Economic Impact Division (EID) and partnered with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) of Hillsborough County to assist members with workshops and individualized consultations on a myriad of topics ranging from business plan development to financing options and preparing a disaster relief plan.  Monthly meetings are scheduled with a business consultant and held at the Chamber location.  For more information about the SBDC, please visit www.sbdctampabay.com/hillsborough. 

In May 2015, the Chamber along with the City of Plant City, and local businesses held an Economic Forum which drew hundreds of interested developers and brokers seeking relocation options.  With that, the Plant City Economic Development Corporation was formed on October 1st to specifically address the pro-growth, pro-development atmosphere that is…PLANT CITY.

Plant City Economic Development Corporation

Plant City hosted a dynamic and successful economic development forum in May 2015 that was a joint effort of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, the City of Plant City and the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation. It was determined that Plant City is Right! Now! for growth and development and the summit became the hot topic in economic development circles in the region.

Subsequently, local business leaders have partnered to form the new Plant City Economic Development Corporation. The Plant City Economic Development Corporation is a private organization focused on growing our community, offering opportunities for new and existing businesses that exceed expectations, and creating success for families.  “Plant City’s proximity to major roadways as well as Port Tampa Bay is ideal for corporations in industries such as manufacturing, distribution, and logistics,” said Randy Larson, newly elected chair of the EDC. “Many agencies are working together to streamline the process for new commercial development and corporate relocations here, creating a welcoming environment that is friendly to companies looking to expand their operations and impact on the market. Our goal for our local EDC is to connect commercial brokers and developers with the opportunities, people, and resources they need to choose Plant City for new and expanding businesses.”

The PCEDC has identified the strengths of Plant City, including location, infrastructure, transportation system, and a favorable tax climate. With these strengths in mind, the PCEDC is now working toward its goals which include ensuring current and ongoing business success, pursuing redevelopment opportunities, encouraging and supporting the entrepreneurial spirit, promoting and enhancing the skills of the local workforce, and working proactively with city government leadership.  “We welcome companies to become a part of our growing community and take advantage of the opportunities that abound here in Plant City,” says Rick Lott, Mayor, of Plant City. “We will take the necessary steps to provide a smooth transition and a business-friendly environment for those who are looking for the best location to continue their corporate growth and success. If you currently have a local business, desire to start one of your own, or are looking for a location to expand your business, please contact the PCEDC. We look forward to serving you as you grow.”

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will have a permanent board seat on the newly formed EDC and both organizations along with the City are excited to work together to ensure that business leaders around the country understand the benefits of making Plant City the base of their operations, and business owners in Plant City have every tool at their disposal to launch and expand their businesses.

Jake Austin, Executive Director - 863-712-0655, Email: jaustin@plantcityedc.com, www.plantcityedc.com