Orlando, Florida - Technology-Based Economic Development Strategy

Scope of Work
When the Metro-Orlando Economic Development Commission (formerly the Mid-Florida Economic Development Commission) hired AE in 1999, they sought a new strategic plan that helped position the four-county Metro Orlando Region to attract technology companies. As one of the top tourist destinations in the world, Orlando was better known as the “home of the Mouse” than the “home of technology.”

AE began the study by estimating the size of Orlando's technology base and conducting a cluster analysis. We discovered much to the surprise of regional leaders, the Metro-Orlando region contained nearly 5,000 technology businesses and 70,000 workers – a significant industry presence.

Next, AE conducted an industry cluster analysis in order to identify specific sectors of the technology industry on which to target economic development efforts and created a marketing strategy aimed at expanding those businesses in the area. The final marketing recommendations built directly upon the strength of the local tourism industry – even making local resorts and amusement parks partners in economic development for the first time. The Region’s new economic development brand – “imagination” – inspires high growth businesses, entrepreneurs, and tourists alike.

Implementation Results

Since the completion of the plan in 2000, the region’s technology sector has experienced significant growth.  Employment grew close to 8% from 2001 to 2005 and the region has posted some of the highest job growth numbers in the country – even following 9/11.  The average high tech salary increased more than 17% during that same period, and high tech sales grew almost 40%. Propelled by existing companies and companies that are new to the region, growth has occurred in all sectors including tourism, technology, retail, and healthcare.

The region has targeted educational programs around the target industries recommended in the study. They have established a Dynamic Media Institute at the University Of Central Florida, and have opened a metro Orlando campus of FSU Medical University. They have also established the Florida Institute Of Electronic Arts and a Disney / SBA National Entrepreneur Center.

In July 2005, the Metro-Orlando EDC was honored with the “Large Market – Deal of the Year” by the Florida Economic Development Council for securing the Central Florida studio expansion of Electronic Arts, the world’s largest interactive entertainment company. In addition to raising the visibility of Metro Orlando’s digital media sector, the studio expansion project has spurred the creation of a new graduate level course of study at the University of Central Florida called the Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy (FIEA).

Metro Orlando continues to work hard at not only diversifying its economy, but telling the world about its successes. Much of that effort and outcome can be tracked directly or indirectly to achievements resulting from the Metro Orlando Technology Study.

Orlando in the news:
The Place Where Industries Converge

Orlando Diversifies and Prospers
Mayor Glenda E. Hood’s Metro Orlando High Technology Advisory

Austin's Rebirth Holds Lessons for Orlando
Experts Urged Central Florida Leaders to Take Risks

High-Tech Orlando: Access Imagination Web site
Mayor Glenda E. Hood’s Metro Orlando High Technology Advisory