In a recent Beyond the Build podcast conversation, Jennifer Conoley, President and CEO of Florida’s Great Northwest, detailed how the organization’s regional coordination model has successfully attracted major economic development projects across 13 counties. Since taking the helm in March 2020, Conoley has overseen the generation of over 1,500 announced jobs through direct leads, with significant projects in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and maritime industries.
Conoley described the organization as a “professional matchmaker,” packaging regional opportunities and directing them to appropriate local economic development professionals. This approach has prevented internal competition among counties and led to wins such as Field International’s relocation of its global headquarters from the United Kingdom to Pensacola, and Point Blank Enterprises’ 300-job body armor manufacturing facility in Wakulla County. Notably, Birdon announced plans for a potential 2,000-job maritime manufacturing expansion at the Port of Pensacola.
One of the region’s key advantages is its military talent pipeline. Six military bases within a two-and-a-half to three-hour radius generate approximately 5,200 military separations and retirements annually, with an average age of 38. A University of West Florida study commissioned by Florida’s Great Northwest found that 47% of separating service members want to stay in the region, making job opportunities a critical retention factor. Conoley noted that companies feel more confident selecting the region based on this quantifiable data.
Site readiness is another priority. Conoley emphasized that site selectors look for ways to eliminate properties, so presenting a truly ready site is essential. The $1.5 billion Triumph Gulf Coast fund, created from Deepwater Horizon settlements and receiving $80 million annually through 2033, provides unique leverage for public-private partnerships to attract major investments without aggressive cash incentives.
Looking ahead, Florida’s Great Northwest recently received a $4.7 million Triumph grant to enhance its regional strategy. Conoley warned against complacency, stating, “You cannot take your foot off the gas pedal in this moment.” She envisions the region becoming even more recognized in the Gulf Coast corridor for aerospace and maritime work over the next 5 to 10 years.
