OEV
Newsletter 

 October 13, 2023

Cheers to the 31st Annual MED Week Celebration!

The Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week Committee assembled for the 31st year last week to honor local minority- and woman-owned businesses, their achievements, and their flourishing legacies. Before the annual celebration, MED Week kicked off with an opening reception at JoEllen’s, where city leaders, community stakeholders, and enthusiastic guests gathered to network and prepare for a week of exciting events.

The MED Week Committee hosted four capacity-building workshops in partnership with HCA Healthcare, Domi Station, FAMU SBDC, CareerSource Capital Region, RAM Construction, Ajax Building Company, FAMU Federal Credit Union, Black Business Investment Corporation, and Florida First Finance Corporation. We extend our sincere gratitude to all participating organizations for their invaluable support  in making these workshops a resounding success!

This year’s MED Week Awards Luncheon honored three deserving individuals, pictured from left to right: OEV Director Keith Bowers; Dr. Michelle Mitcham-McCord, owner of Tallahassee Woman Magazine, recognized as the 2023 MBE of the Year; Steve Beasley, President of the ML King Foundation, recognized as the 2023 Reggie L. Rolle Minority Economic Development Champion of the Year; and Tracey Cohen, owner of Target Print & Mail, recognized as the 2023 WBE of the Year.

Chef Leon Brunson brought a taste of Leon’s at Lake Ella to the celebration with his catered lunch, while Michael Cork of Macork Solutions executed photography, and Carlos & Tangy Wilder of CTW Broadcasting delivered video and event production.

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Award-Winning Publication!

We proudly announce that the OEV Newsletter received a 2023 Excellence in Economic Development Silver Award from the International Economic Development Council! This prestigious recognition reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality, informative content that keeps our community informed and engaged.

Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Report

During Fiscal Year 2023, the Office of Economic Vitality focused on 15 active projects with the potential to create over 1,800 jobs, $99.4 million in income or wages, and $298 million in total economic output. 

Happy Manufacturing Month!

This month allows us to reflect on the pivotal role manufacturing plays in shaping our community. From the skilled hands of craftsmen to the cutting-edge technology of modern production lines, manufacturing has significantly contributed to our local economy—providing jobs, driving economic growth, and fostering innovation.

The Big Bend Manufacturers Association (BBMA) was established by OEV in 2021. By initiating the Regional Manufacturers Association (RMA) for our region, we have become more competitive in the national economic landscape while offering critical support for our local businesses in Tallahassee-Leon County. Learn more at www.bbma-fl.com

Notable News

Fall Semester Brings Record Graduate Student Enrollment at Nation’s Joint College

The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering welcomed one of its largest graduate enrollment classes in the history of the college. The university’s unwavering commitment to student success and vital academic programs for in-demand careers may be the key. 

See what's happening inside North Florida Innovation Labs as construction progresses

It will sustain over 600 full-time, permanent, high-quality jobs

Upcoming Opportunities
from Our Partners

October
19–20

Domi Pitch Event

Calling all entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs! Apply to pitch at Domi's second Pitch Event! Participating individuals will present their business ideas to a panel of judges and win cash and in-kind prizes. The deadline to apply is Sunday, October 15.

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!