OEV
Newsletter 

September 6, 2024

OEV Receives 2024 IEDC Excellence in Economic Development Silver Award for EDO of the Year 

The Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality (OEV) proudly announces its receipt of the 2024 International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Excellence in Economic Development Silver Award for Economic Development Organization (EDO) of the Year and a Bronze Award for promoting Economic Equity & Inclusion through the Amazon Tallahassee Robotics Fulfillment Center project. This recognition represents the culmination of years of strategic planning led by the Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency (IA) Board of Directors, supported by City and County executive leadership, community stakeholders, and the driving force of our economic ecosystem—the business owners and entrepreneurs. Through collaboration, these efforts have effectively transformed Tallahassee-Leon County into a vibrant, thriving economic hub, fostering growth, innovation, and opportunity across the region. 

Save the Date for the 32^nd Annual Minority Enterprise Development Week Celebration!

Join us for the 32nd Annual Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week Celebration! This week-long event is dedicated to honoring and uplifting minority and women-owned businesses in our community. It's a fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate the contributions of our diverse entrepreneurs. Stay tuned for more details—this is one event you won't want to miss!

MWSBE Rise & Thrive Academy:

Business Financing

Maximize your business potential with expert financing!

Be part of the action as we spotlight the FAMU Small Business Development Center, Apalachee Regional Planning Council, and Northwest Florida Black Business Investment Corporation. This Academy offers a unique opportunity to discover how effective financing can propel your business forward.

Monday, September 9
8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
315 South Calhoun Street, Suite 450
Tallahassee, FL 32301 (Find on Google Maps)

Florida minimum wage increases to $13.00 an hour

Effective September 30, 2024, the minimum wage in Florida increases to $13.00 an hour, and the required cash wage for tipped employees increases to $9.98. All Florida employers are required to post the current minimum wage in their place of business where an employee can see it.

Notable News

Fake Online Reviews and Testimonials Are a Headache for Small Businesses. They Hope the FTC Can Help

Associated Press

The SBA is unveiling new credit lines of up to $5 million to fund small businesses

Hugh Son
CNBC

Upcoming Opportunities
from Our Partners

Future-Ready: Essential Skills for Work and learning in the age of AI

In the era of the fifth industrial revolution, AI’s transformative impact is rapidly reshaping the workforce. By 2030, 375 million individuals may need to transition careers due to automation. This underscores the urgent need to equip both individuals and institutions with essential skills. Community and business leaders must strategically invest in workforce development, aligning policies and models to foster innovation and resilience. Educational institutions also play a pivotal role, requiring a shift towards nurturing social, emotional, and cognitive skills alongside technical proficiency. This session explores these vital skills needed for navigating the evolving work landscape amidst AI advancements. Participants will analyze the interplay between technology and adaptability, emphasizing the importance of continuous upskilling and reskilling to thrive in a changing job market.

Building Strong Financial Projections

This class teaches participants the importance of the financial standings of their business, including determining the purpose of their budget, reviewing current financials and spending habits, planning and balancing financial obligations, and creating financial goals.

AERO (Alliance of Entrepreneur Resource Organizations)

AERO (Alliance of Entrepreneur Resource Organizations), based in Tallahassee, is a coalition of public agencies and community non-profit organizations united to provide current and new businesses with resources to aid in their success.

Read Past Issues of the OEV Newsletter Online!

Delve into past issues of the OEV Newsletter to catch up on updates, insights, economic development initiatives, programs, and opportunities in Tallahassee-Leon County!