Orlando is famous for its lively entertainment zones and amusement parks, yet it also has an understated side that fuels these sectors.
According to recent research, Orlando ranks as the second-quickest expanding technology center in the Southern region.
Subscribe to our Newsletters
Kyle Morrand, who leads 302 Interactive as its CEO, contributes to this expansion from a modest workspace in the city center. Their business specializes in “interactive and spatial media,” employing game design tools for practical uses across various sectors such as education and healthcare.
In 2011, I moved to Orlando to attend UCF for my studies,” Morrand stated. “Around three years into my time there, I conceived the idea of launching a game studio during my coursework at UCF’s gaming program.
Over a decade later, 302 Interactive has become one of numerous technology firms based in Central Florida.
A recent survey
from real-estate blog and company Commercial Cafe found five Florida cities rank in the top 20 southern metros leading in tech companies and talent. Palm Bay, Crestview, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Orlando are all among them. All rank for the amount of growth they’ve seen in the industry and jobs.
Tim Giuliani, who serves as the president and CEO of the Orlando Economic Partnership, stated, “We might not have a prominent downtown skyscraper bearing the logo of a major technology firm. However, our city boasts an impressive workforce of 75,000 individuals employed in the tech sector.”
Giuliani has witnessed this development unfold, yet he maintains that it’s a trend that has been gradually forming over many years.
He mentioned how everyone is familiar with the classic Disney tale which dates back more than half a century. Concurrently, we were experiencing the Space Race; hence, this area has consistently emphasized maintaining a robust technology sector. Therefore, despite being less noticeable at a national level, it actually boasts a bustling environment comprised mainly of small and medium-sized businesses.
According to Giuliani, many of the hospitality and tourism venues that Central Florida is famous for essentially revolve around technology-driven and interactive experiences. These establishments coexist with our defense and aerospace sectors, which have been present since the 1960s. Both these areas thrive due to two key factors: a continually expanding workforce from local educational institutions and a relatively low cost of living.
“The event has enticed individuals and businesses to consider operating here, fostering collaboration, forming partnerships, and potentially establishing headquarters within our community,” stated Jessi Blakley, Vice President at Tavistock Group, regarding the yearly gathering.
Lake Nona Impact Forum in February.
She attributes the growth and appeal of the forum to Orlando’s technology ecosystem, which provides the foundation for annually attracting tech company leaders, famous personalities, medical professionals, and past U.S. Presidents.
“Events such as the Lake Nona Impact Forum play a crucial role in our economy — possibly attracting new job opportunities and headquarters — which benefits the whole community,” stated Blakley.
This has already occurred, as demonstrated by corporations such as Johnson & Johnson relocating their headquarters or regional offices to Central Florida.
Morrand states that such growth is incredibly motivating for young technology professionals and business starters.
He mentioned, ‘It’s quite inviting for youthful talents to flourish here,’ adding that ‘there are numerous job opportunities available.’
TOP STORIES FROM WESH:
The special edition Stanley tumblers are being snapped up quickly, however, these remain available.
READ THE FULL STORY:
Orlando is 2nd fastest growing tech hub in the South
CHECK OUT WESH:
Stay updated with the most recent news, weather, and sports from Orlando, Florida. Catch the leading headlines along with all the scores provided by the WESH team.
