Date: November 16, 2009
Contact: Bill Kyriakakis, Office of Economic and Small Business Development
Phone: 954-357-6155


The Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development has scheduled a public meeting to gather input on the New Targeted Industries Study on Thursday, December 3, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Broward County Convention Center, 1950 Eisenhower Blvd., Fort Lauderdale.

The yearlong study was intended to assess the opportunities for recruiting high growth, new and emerging industries that will create high-wage/high skilled job opportunities consistent with Broward County's overall economic development strategies. The study also evaluates opportunities for new growth and development among existing high wage/high skill industries in Broward County.

The Office of Economic and Small Business Development will partner with The Broward Alliance, local municipalities and the business community to review and discuss the preliminary findings of the study.

"The study serves as a guide to help strengthen Broward County's position as a top preferred business location and a hub for international business activity," said Norman Taylor, director of the Office of Economic and Small Business Development.

The study consists of industry and workforce analyses and projections, competitive region comparisons, recommendations of targeted industries, and a strategic marketing campaign. According to the study:

• Chemical, environmental, electrical power, architectural engineering, water utility and aerospace/aviation industries are expected to be among the key sources of new high wage/high skill job creation over the next several years.

• More than 35 percent of the workforce in Broward County have attained an associate, bachelor or graduate degree, compared to a national average of just over 32 percent.

• Broward County ranks among the highest in the nation in diversity of language and national origin.

• The average Broward County wage in 2007 was $18.75 per hour.

The New Targeted Industries Study will be presented by DCG Corplan, a nationally-renowned economic development consulting and site selection firm, which completed a yearlong analysis to determine the 10 high wage/high skill industries that Broward County is best positioned to attract.

Information gathered will be used in the final report and presented to the Broward County Board of County Commissioners.

RSVP by 5 p.m., November 30 to Bill Kyriakakis, Office of Economic and Small Business Development at 954-357-6155.