Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have awarded $255,000 in grants to 20 organizations across Florida to support economic development initiatives. The funding aims to help local entities attract businesses, strengthen the state’s economy, and develop workforce talent.
Since 2020, Duke Energy and its foundation have provided nearly $2 million in similar grants within Florida. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance the competitiveness of Florida counties by supporting programs that make it easier for businesses to operate in the state and promote career opportunities in high-demand sectors.
Among the recipients is Citrus County, which received $15,000 to improve its Economic Development department’s website with enhanced mapping tools and resources for digital materials. The North Florida Economic Development Partnership Foundation was granted $15,000 to create a matrix of grant programs addressing infrastructure needs in 15 rural counties. The Central Florida Development Council also received $15,000 aimed at attracting jobs and aligning Polk County’s workforce investments with high-potential industries.
Melissa Seixas, president of Duke Energy Florida, stated: “Florida’s economic strength instinctively makes our state a great place to establish and grow a business, so it’s our privilege to build upon these competitive advantages through innovative, strategic resource grants.”
Sean Malott, president and CEO of Central Florida Development Council, said: “This grant from Duke Energy will play a critical role in shaping the future of Polk County’s economy. By updating our target industry study, we will gain additional insights needed to continue attracting high-quality jobs, support local businesses and align Polk’s workforce and infrastructure investments with the industries that drive long-term growth. We are grateful for Duke Energy’s continued partnership in building a stronger, more resilient economic future for our community.”
The full list of grant recipients includes several county development offices as well as regional partnerships such as Pasco Economic Development Council Inc., Taylor County Development Authority, Orlando Economic Partnership, Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership Foundation, Team Volusia Economic Development Council, among others.
Duke Energy Florida serves approximately two million customers across a 13,000-square-mile area with an energy capacity of 12,500 megawatts. The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support funded by company shareholders.
Duke Energy itself is one of America’s largest energy holding companies with operations spanning six states. It continues investing in electric grid upgrades and cleaner energy generation including renewables and storage technologies. More information about these initiatives can be found on their official site (https://www.duke-energy.com/community/duke-energy-foundation/Florida).
For further details on this round of grants or other programs supported by Duke Energy Foundation visit their community page (https://www.duke-energy.com/community/duke-energy-foundation/Florida).
