Economic impact

David Bell, CEO of a national workplace drug testing company, has called for mandatory drug testing for all government employees, arguing that the policy could address financial shortcomings and improve economic stability. Bell outlined his perspective in a recent opinion piece, linking substance abuse within high-ranking officials to wasteful spending and potential national security risks.

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) on Tuesday introduced the Rebuild & Save Act, legislation that would raise the cap on mitigation funds available through the Small Business Administration’s disaster loan program, from 20 percent to 30 percent. Under current rules, homeowners and small business owners can add 20 percent to their SBA low‐interest disaster loans

As 2025 unfolds, economic experts at Regions Bank are closely watching how national policies and global trends will shape both the United States and Tampa Bay economies. During a recent discussion with Alan McKnight, chief investment officer, April Grajales, Tampa market executive, and Ray Hand, private wealth executive for Florida, these leaders shared insights on

St. Petersburg flood insurance provider Neptune Flood is already one of the nation’s largest, with around 227,000 customers. But if threatened cuts to the country’s top program come to fruition, that number could rise, along with the region’s heightened hurricane risks. This week, staffers at the Federal Emergency Management Agency announced hundreds of job cuts,

USF, Tampa Bay Partnership researchers share Tampa Bay area workforce and affordability data

As the region continues to attract investments, and talent, these sectors are set to shape the local economy in unique ways.

Hillsborough County’s tourism and hospitality industry surpassed $1 billion in hotel taxable revenue, in 2024, marking the third consecutive year the county has reached this milestone, according to Visit Tampa Bay. Through November, the county recorded $1,052,883,894 in hotel taxable revenue, fueled by record-breaking performance during the fall. November alone generated more than $100 million

SBP, a national disaster recovery nonprofit, has plans to launch a home rebuilding program and a regional office in Tampa. Starting in January 2025, the initiative aims to assist communities in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco and Manatee counties, affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The program will use the Toyota Production System to build at least

The port now contributes $34.6 billion to the regional economy and supports more than 192,000 jobs.

Forvis, one of the leading accounting and consulting firms in the United States, has made significant strides in expanding its global reach through the formation of a global network with Mazars, an international accounting and advisory group. The organization is now known as Forvis Mazars in the U.S., and internationally.  This strategic move has enhanced

Johns Hopkins Federal Credit Union has launched a disaster relief program for members impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton, focusing on support for Florida-based members, including those served by Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, in St. Petersburg. The program includes two loan options: Emergency Relief Loan: Members can borrow up to $1,500 at a 3.99%

In part to address severe weather and infrastructure needs