News Summary
Florida is becoming a pivotal global business hub for tech companies aiming to enter the North American market. The Global Ventures Program at Florida Atlantic University is central to this growth, aiding international firms in connecting with U.S. resources. Many foreign businesses find value in the program’s support with local legal and accounting services, fostering community through networking events. With its unique strengths in technology and strategic geographical position, South Florida offers a welcoming environment for multinational corporations looking to establish a presence in the region.
Florida is rapidly establishing itself as a significant global business hub, particularly for international tech companies looking to expand into the North American market. This evolution is primarily facilitated by initiatives such as the Global Ventures Program at the Research Park at Florida Atlantic University, which targets growth-oriented, second-stage companies from around the world. Since its inception, the program has successfully attracted participants from 12 nations across Central and South America, Europe, Canada, and recently, Israel.
Ryan Lilly, who has served as the Global Ventures Program Manager since January 2022, brings over ten years of experience assisting entrepreneurs in the United States. His expertise now focuses on connecting international tech scaleups with essential U.S. resources. Many foreign companies benefit from Lilly’s matchmaking and strategic guidance, which links them with legal, accounting, and immigration consulting services necessary for establishing a foothold in the U.S.
International firms often face challenges due to their lack of a pre-existing network in the U.S. market. The Global Ventures Program helps these companies build connections from the ground up, facilitating collaboration with Florida Atlantic University faculty on research initiatives. For example, Triangulate Labs is engaged in research with the College of Nursing through this collaboration.
The program is not just about individual matchmaking; it also emphasizes community building through networking events, lunch sessions, and workshops. These events promote peer-to-peer learning and face-to-face interactions—valued even more in the post-COVID environment. The program has achieved a high retention rate, with many companies opting to stay in South Florida after graduation, further solidifying the region’s status as a tech industry hub.
South Florida’s unique strengths lie in artificial intelligence and engineering. The local tech ecosystem is maturing, attracting an increasing number of international tech firms. The region is viewed as a “Gateway to the Americas,” due in part to its geographical advantages in business, trade, and tourism. Major events like eMerge Americas and the Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo play pivotal roles in expanding the Global Ventures Program’s reach.
The Miami metropolitan area, with a population of 6.1 million and over 100 cities, is one of the top 40 economies globally, boasting a gross regional product exceeding $350 billion. South Florida is home to more than 1,400 multinational companies and has the second-largest international banking center in the U.S., featuring 75 foreign consulates and trade offices—second only to Washington, D.C.
The region supports a diverse array of industries, including trade, retail, professional services, media, marketing, healthcare, and logistics. Notable companies that have established operations in South Florida include Japan’s TBC Corporation and Germany’s Aldi, marking the area as attractive for international business establishment.
The Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance promotes South Florida as ideal for international businesses, citing its strategic position and low barriers to entry. Florida’s absence of personal income tax further attracts companies considering a move to the area. In 2022, foreign investment in South Florida real estate reached $6.8 billion, as reported by the MIAMI Association of Realtors, underscoring the region’s allure for international investors.
The MIAMI Young Professionals Network (YPN) also plays a crucial role in facilitating global networking and professional development opportunities for young real estate professionals. Participation in major international conferences enhances South Florida’s visibility and opens up various business opportunities.
In summary, South Florida is becoming a decisive focal point for international tech companies, providing the necessary resources, support, and collaborative environment for firms looking to establish or expand their operations in North America.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Refresh Miami: FAU’s Ryan Lilly
- Wikipedia: Florida
- Florida Trend: A Region Golden with Global Business
- Google Search: South Florida business hub
- Miami Herald: Opinion on South Florida
- Encyclopedia Britannica: International Business
- South Florida Agent Magazine: Miami YPN Global
- Google News: Miami tech industry
- Business Wire: FIU’s College of Business
- Google Scholar: Florida Atlantic University
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
