On Monday, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI) are accepting economic development project proposals for the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, offering up to $40 million to fund job training and public infrastructure projects that support growth and employment in Florida.
“We know the importance infrastructure projects and workforce training has on economic development,” said DeSantis on Monday. “The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund will help Florida communities ensure they are resilient, prepared for all economic possibilities and have the opportunity to achieve their economic goals.”
In 2019-20, DEO will provide $40 million for projects that focus on rapidly developing a highly skilled workforce and on infrastructure initiatives that attract businesses, create jobs and promote economic growth.
“Governor DeSantis’ commitment to enhancing Florida’s infrastructure and workforce training is creating a brighter future for all Floridians,” said Department of Economic Opportunity Executive Director Ken Lawson. “The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund will allow our agencies to continue making smart strategic investments in Florida communities to improve lives and support sustainable economic growth.”
“Enterprise Florida is proud to work with Governor DeSantis and our partners at DEO to provide Florida communities with the resources they need to expand infrastructure and improve our state’s talent pipeline,” said EFI President and CEO Jamal Sowell. “The Job Growth Grant Fund is a great economic development tool that will encourage business investment, creating more opportunities for Floridians. We look forward to reviewing this year’s competitive projects.”
DEO and EFI will make project recommendations to DeSantis who will approve projects for funding based on local and regional needs.
