BUSINESS
manufacturing sector continues to take
off, aided by the EDC. According to federal
Bureau of Labor statistics, manufacturing
jobs in Brevard have increased by 19
percent, versus a decrease of 28 percent
across the nation.
Weatherman has led the EDC since 1994,
years that have brought tremendous
positive change to the area.
“Their work in support of
the Space Coast is one that
lifts all stakeholders, making
our region one of the most
promising locations for growing
commercial, defense and
veteran-owned businesses >> ”
The EDC also nurtures innovative startups
through the Innovation Council and the
Space Coast Pitch Challenge, the first event
of its kind in the area and one that helped
more than 37 companies raise more than
$60 million in capital. The commission was
one of the first supporters of Groundswell
Startups, the Melbourne-based incubator
that hosted the challenge.
“The partnership between Groundswell
Startups and the EDC has enabled us to
provide key resources to the companies we
support,” said Jarin Eisenberg, Groundswell
chief operating officer. “They have time and
time again proven to be a go-to resource
for supporting emerging technologies and
startups on the Space Coast.”
Earlier this year, Brevard received significant
46: SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM
kudos when it placed among the five
communities across the country named
to the 2022 Class of Great American
Defense Communities.
Communities are chosen through a
competitive nomination process based
on integration, support and collaboration
with installations, and community
building efforts, such as educational and
employment opportunities. This year,
the program has a special focus on how
communities are innovating and pioneering
new ways to serve service members and
their families.
SPACE COAST OFFICE OF TOURISM
Mission Space Coast will address Brevard’s role as tourist mecca and home to the second largest cruise ship port in the world.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
OF FLORIDA’S SPACE COAST
“The goal of community branding
is to capture the essence and
distinctiveness of a place,
emphasizing how it is authentic
and memorable.
— Lynda Weatherman
/SPACECOASTLIVING.COM