News

$32.5M "Project Maple" at Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport to Spark Economic Growth, Diversification

September 13, 2023

Premier Aviation to open location here, creating 250 high-wage jobs

 

Boat Manufacturer Mocama Marine Coming to Bay County

September 6, 2022

The Bay Economic Development Alliance, an agent of the Bay County Commission (Bay EDA), announced today that Mocama Marine LLC will be establishing a boat manufacturing operation in Bay County, Florida.

 

Welcome Central Moloney Inc. to Bay County

June 9, 2022

Just last week, we celebrated a ribbon-cutting ceremony Central Moloney Inc., a transformer manufacturing company. The new addition will create 200 jobs for Bay County. Bay EDA President Becca Hardin says, “Anytime that you can announce that you got a new company and a manufacturing company coming into your community and creating great jobs for citizens that live here. It’s a banner day for Bay County and all of our community citizens.”

 

Transformer Manufacturing Company Coming Soon to Bay County

January 12, 2022

The Bay Economic Development Alliance, an agent of the Bay County Commission (Bay EDA), announced today that Central Moloney Incorporated will be establishing a manufacturing operation in Bay County, Florida. Central Moloney Inc., headquartered in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, is a key supplier to a number of large investor-owned utilities, distributors and OEMs throughout the United States. The company designs and manufactures electrical distribution transformers and transformer component parts.

 

Fed Ex Ground Facility Coming Soon to Bay County

January 4, 2022

Panama City, Florida – (January 4, 2022) – The Bay Economic Development Alliance (BayEDA), Port Panama City, City of Panama City, and Bay County announced today a new 251,000 square-foot FedEx Ground facility is being built in Panama City, Florida, which is expected to open in the fall of 2022.

 

Gulf Coast FAME Chapter

February 25, 2021

The Gulf Coast FAME Chapter has been established in Bay County in Florida. The Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) is a national work-study program that develops global entry-level multi-craft maintenance technicians.

 

July Florida Trend Feature

August 13, 2020

The Bay Economic Development Alliance, Gulf Coast State College, and the St. Joe Company were featured in the July issue of the Florida Trend. Grab a copy today to read the feature about the partnership these entities and other community partners have for economic development success in Bay County!

 

Suzuki Marine Technical Center USA Coming to Panama City, FL

March 26, 2020

Bay Economic Development Alliance: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. Announces Plans for Suzuki Marine Technical Center USA in Panama City, Florida Suzuki Developing 20-Acre Property in Panama City, Florida To Enhance Integration With U.S. Boat Builders & Dealers.

 

BayEDA Annouces Clark and Son, Inc. to locate in Panama City

October 10, 2019

Panama City, Florida – (October 9, 2019) – The Bay Economic Development Alliance (BayEDA), Port Panama City, City of Panama City, and Bay County announced today that a leading distribution company for custom kitchen cabinets will be locating in Panama City, Florida. Clark and Son Inc. (Clark and Son) will locate their distribution and final assembly headquarters operation in Panama City, Florida.

 

F-35 fighter jets coming to Tyndall Air Force Base

August 12, 2019

MEXICO BEACH, Fla. - The Trump administration is confirming that a U.S. Air Force base in the Florida Panhandle that was devastated by Hurricane Michael will be rebuilt so it can house F-35 fighter jets.

 

Jellyfish Health - One of the Best Workplaces in Healthcare

June 11, 2019

Two-time winner celebrates culture of innovation and focus on patient experience

 

St. Joe Company invests $6.5 million into Venture Crossings

May 3, 2019

PANAMA CITY — Developers unveiled a partially constructed building on Thursday that, once finished this year, will be used to lure new industry and jobs to Bay County.

 

Bay EDA Featured in Spring Issue of 850 Business Magazine

March 21, 2019

Check out our recent feature in 850 Business Magazine regarding economic development in Bay County after Hurricane Michael. Economic development is still strong and we look forward to several successes in 2019!

 

International K-12 Boarding School Coming to Bay County

February 13, 2019

The Bay Economic Development Alliance (BayEDA) and the Bay County Commission announced today that an international foundation, Casa Laxmi Foundation, Inc. 501(c)(3) (Casa Laxmi), is establishing an international boarding school for students from kindergarten through grade 12 in Bay County, Florida. The project represents an investment of approximately $117 million and will bring 300 new jobs to Bay County. The average wage for the new jobs will be over $50,000 annually.

 

The St. Joe Company Announces Plans for a New Hotel at ECP

November 9, 2018

The Company plans the development of a 110-125 room hotel with a full service restaurant and bar, as well as meeting space. This new hotel will be located adjacent to the airport which is located within St. Joe’s 110,500 acres known as the Bay-Walton Sector Plan.

 

Bay County employers are hiring after Hurricane Michael

November 1, 2018

Bay County employers are hiring after Hurricane Michael, but housing and loyalty may be a roadblock The largest employers in Bay County are showing that Hurricane Michael can’t run them out of town. But housing will play a key role in keeping businesses—and their employees—afloat.

 

Bay lands aerospace manufacturer ACMT

August 8, 2018

ACMT, Inc. will be making a $20 million investment in the county, officials said.

 

Revint Solutions to open regional headquarters in Lynn Haven

July 25, 2018

Revint Solutions, a revenue recovery company for the healthcare industry, will bring 150 jobs to the Bay area.

 

GKN is hiring

July 9, 2018

So far, 40 people have been hired including the plant’s new general manager Preston Mathis.

 

Local Military Programs Get State Grants

July 6, 2018

The Bay County Board of County Commissioners will get $95,000 to develop an expeditionary rapid innovation center outside Naval Station Activity Panama City. The center "will collaborate with local colleges, universities, and business in a public-private partnership," officials wrote in a news release. "This partnership will address the Navy’s critical need for a quick response innovative solution to address emerging mission requirements."

 

Butterfly Training to open U.S. HQ in Panama City

June 13, 2018

PANAMA CITY — The Bay Economic Development Alliance ended its regular meeting Wednesday with another success story. Butterfly Training, an aviation training company based in France, plans to open its U.S. headquarters in Panama City.

 

ECP welcomes American Airlines to Bay County

June 11, 2018

The world’s largest airline is now offering ECP passengers non-stop daily service on the 65-seat CRJ-700 jet to Charlotte Douglas and Dallas-Fort Worth airports, American Airlines hubs that offer connecting flights to destinations around the world

 

Aviation Additions

May 23, 2018

Northwest Florida gets a boost as two more aerospace companies move in.

 

Air Temp to Build US Headquarters in Bay County, FL

May 9, 2018

Air Temp of America, Inc. (Air Temp), a subsidiary of Air Temp de México, S.A. de C.V will locating their first US Headquarters in the City of Panama City, Florida.

 

YEAR IN REVIEW: Economic pieces fall into place for Bay 2017

January 2, 2018

BAY COUNTY — If all goes according to plan, by the end of 2018, international aerospace manufacturing company GKN Aerospace will have brought 100 new, high-paying jobs to the region. In 2019, Eastern Shipbuilding will begin construction on the first of nine Coast Guard offshore patrol cutters, anticipated to bring more than a thousand jobs to the area when all is said and done. In 2020, the size of Tyndall Air Force Base will increase by almost a third, with 1,600 new airmen to support the MQ-9 Reaper wing program, assuming the base passes a mandatory environmental study. Editor’s note: This is the top story of 2017 as selected by readers and News Herald staff. A comprehensive Year in Review special section will publish in early January. Find additional related content at newsherald.com.

 

Bay County eyes boost from Tyndall MQ-9 Reaper Wing

December 8, 2017

A new drone wing slated for Tyndall Air Force Base is expected to bring 24 aircraft, 1,600 airmen -- and the need for more local housing, classrooms and specialized training.

 

Bay County EDA Reviews Year's Successes

November 15, 2017

BAY COUNTY, Fla. - Bay County's Economic Development Alliance held it's annual luncheon Wednesday afternoon.

 

Sheltair Aviation to Add Second Airport Hangar at ECP Airpor

November 15, 2017

BAY COUNTY, Fla. - Northwest Florida Beaches International made a big move Wednesday morning to increase aircraft storage space. They approved a project for a second airport hangar in Sheltair's general aviation section of the airport.

 

‘Ready to go’: Bay company branching out with aviation....

October 2, 2017

In November 2016, the FAA approved the company’s “Conformal Vortex Generator” product that is manufactured at its facility at 416 Richard Jackson Boulevard..

 

Eastern Shipbuilding Group News Release July 26, 2017

July 26, 2017

Eastern Shipbuilding Group successfully completes Offshore Patrol Cutter ICDR Milestone for the United States Coast Guard

 

Beaches International Airport Still Growing After 7 Years

July 14, 2017

In fiscal year 2009, the airport’s operating revenue was $3.6 million. In fiscal 2016, revenue was $11.1 million. Job creation went from about 250 employees in 2010 to an estimated 800 people today.

 

Governor Signs $1.5 B Triumph Fund Legislation

June 5, 2017

The Triumph Gulf Coast will award Panhandle communities $300 million to aid in economic recovery efforts after millions of barrels of oil ravaged their cities and towns in 2010.

 

Bay County, Florida Welcomes GKN Aerospace

May 9, 2017

Local and State officials formally welcomed GKN Aerospace to Florida on May 9th a special ceremony to celebrate the new facility being built in Bay County.

 

NWFL Beaches International Airport Adds Drone Detection

April 6, 2017

The Airport has partnered with local business DeTect to utilize its DroneWatcher™ drone detection and defense system.

 

Port Panama City’s Certified Site is Open for Business

March 15, 2017

In January 2015, Port Panama City gained certification for a 54 acre site at their Intermodal Distribution Center (IDC). The certification was achieved through Gulf Power Company’s Florida First Sites program in partnership with international site selection firm, McCallum Sweeney.

 

A Strong Community Partner

March 8, 2017

GKN's Sue Barnes said the company is bringing about $55 million of capital equipment to its 135,000-square-foot Bay County facility, which should open in 2018. Recruitment for 170 highly skilled employees will begin in the coming months.

 

Local Colleges, Stakeholders Teamed Up to Land GKN

March 2, 2017

"Let me make an offer to you," Dr. John Holdnak, president of Gulf Coast State College, remembered telling them. "If you will commit to come, I will develop a program around your industry needs and I will help recruit students to go into this program and train your workforce."

 

EDA and St. Joe Welcome GKN Aerospace to VentureCrossings

February 14, 2017

The St. Joe Company (NYSE:JOE) (“St. Joe”) and the Bay Economic Development Alliance today announced that one of the world’s largest independent first tier suppliers to the international aviation industry, will expand its operations by locating a new manufacturing facility in Venture Crossings® Enterprise Centre in Bay County, Florida.

 

Panama City Professionals Recognized as Top 40 Under 40

February 9, 2017

Every two years, Development Counsellors International honors young professionals from across the globe for exceptional contributions to the economic development industry and to recognize the profession's rising stars.

 

Bay EDA Unveils 2016 Highlight Reel

December 19, 2016

Great things happened in Bay County during 2016. Check out this video that captures the high points.

 

Edge Aerodynamix receives FAA Supplemental Type Certificate

December 5, 2016

Edge Aerodynamix, a company whose products save fuel and energy by improving the aerodynamic efficiency of aircraft wings and rotor blades, announced that its conformal vortex generator (CVG) technology has received a supplemental type certificate (STC) from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

 

Eastern Shipbuilding Wins $10.5B Coast Guard Contract

September 15, 2016

The economy of Panama City and Bay County got a huge boost Thursday after Eastern Shipbuilding landed a $10.5 billion contract to build two dozen new U.S. Coast Guard cutters.

 

Jellyfish Health to Expand in Panama City, Florida

August 24, 2016

Expansion of health technology company will create 100 jobs

 

Bay County Delegation Sees Success at International Air Show

July 26, 2016

A team of Bay County representatives led by EDA President, Becca Hardin, held many successful meetings as part of Governor Rick Scott's Florida delegation at the Farnborough International Show.

 

Port Panama City Expansion

May 4, 2016

Port Panama City purchased a portion of WestRock in order to expand its facilities.

 

Berg Steel Picks Up Two More Contracts

February 10, 2016

Berg Steel Pipe Corp. started its year with a shipment of 39,318 tons of steel plate from Germany, a record haul for Port Panama City and a good indicator for the type of business the company hopes to do this year.

 

Bay EDA Team Embarks on Aerospace Recruitment Mission

February 9, 2016

Becca Hardin, President of the Bay EDA is part of a team of economic developers from Florida's Great Northwest that are in Seattle this week on an aerospace recruitment mission. The team will visit Boeing's operations and participate in the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance Conference and hold one-on-one meetings with aerospace companies.

 

Bay EDA president: 'We know we can compete'

November 17, 2015

By VALERIE GARMAN News Herald Reporter Posted Nov. 17, 2015 at 5:18 PM Updated Nov 17, 2015 at 5:19 PM The Bay Economic Development Alliance (EDA) used a lost project to gauge the headway the organization made this year during an annual luncheon.

 

EDA: Airport at center of development opportunities

June 10, 2015

PANAMA CITY — As officials with the Bay County Economic Development Alliance (EDA) target the aerospace industry for local job growth, the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) remains at the center of their pitch.

 

Bay EDA champions high-speed broadband project

May 13, 2015

One effort, to expand the county’s high-speed data infrastructure, moved one step closer to reality this week.

 

Panama City Port Authority Announces Oceaneering Contract

May 5, 2015

Recently, Oceaneering International, as part of a consortium with GE Oil & Gas, secured a contract that added over $100 million to its Subsea Products backlog. All of this product manufacturing is planned to be performed at their Port Panama City, Florida umbilical facility and is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2015 with completion in the fourth quarter of 2017.

 

Regional TV Shows Features BayEDA President

May 4, 2015

The latest episode of the Florida's Great Northwest regional TV show, filmed at Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, features BayEDA President, Becca Hardin and the economic development assets of Bay County, Florida.

 

Delta Honors Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport

April 23, 2015

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport was recently honored by Delta as a 2014 Station of the Year, an award given worldwide to stations that meet operational and customer service criteria as measured by the Atlanta-based airline.

 

DeTect Receives Gulf Coast Trade Alliance Export Achievement Award

April 23, 2015

Company's Radar System Exports Recognized by Southeast Regional Trade Organization

 

Manufacturing Sales Tax Exemption Aimed at Economic Growth

April 17, 2015

Gov. Rick Scott is asking the Legislature to make a manufacturing sales tax exemption proposed in his 2015-16 budget a permanent measure to give Florida businesses a real opportunity for growth.

 

DeTect, Inc. Celebrates Third Anniversary of Opening Office in United Kingdom to Support International Projects

March 30, 2015

DeTect, Inc. (www.detect-inc.com) celebrates the third anniversary of opening of its European Division Office to meet growing demand for its radar products in the United Kingdom (UK), European Union (EU), and the Middle East. The DeTect Global Ltd. office is located in Horsham, West Sussex near London-Gatwick Airport.

 

Panama City Metro Area Among Fastest-Growing

March 26, 2015

The Panama City metropolitan area was the 19th-fastest growing metro in the United States last year, according to new population estimates released by the Census Bureau.

 

New Flights Coming to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport in March

March 2, 2015

United Airlines, Silver Airways, and Southwest Airlines will all be offering new flights this month.

 

ECP Announces New Southwest Flight to Dallas

February 12, 2015

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) has announced that Southwest Airlines will begin nonstop service to Dallas, Texas.

 

US Becomes Hots Spot for Aerospace Manufacturing

February 12, 2015

Bay EDA joins the Florida's Great Northwest delegation at the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance conference. The conference focused on how the aerospace industry is shifting more manufacturing investment to the United States after a decade in which production jobs in the sector flowed to China and other emerging economies.

 

EDA, FDOT Discuss Roadway Projects

February 11, 2015

Jason Peters, director of transportation development for FDOT’s Northwest Florida office, spoke at the Bay County Economic Development Alliance’s (EDA) investors meeting, outlining several multimillion-dollar roadway projects prepping for construction in the area.

 

EDA Staff Attends Enterprise Florida Board and Stakeholders Meetings

January 22, 2015

At the recent Enterprise Florida Board Meeting, Secretary of Commerce and president & CEO of EFI, Gray Swoope, gave his final address to the Board. It was announced that Bill Johnson will replace Gray Swoope.

 

Panama City Shipping Company Welcomes Newer, Larger Ships

January 22, 2015

Linea Peninsular, based at Port Panama City, upgrades its fleet for its container trade with Mexico.

 

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport Announces the Addition of Silver Airways

January 19, 2015

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is pleased to announce Silver Airways is bringing their intra-Florida service to Panama City Beach with two new nonstop flights.

 

Becca Hardin Named President of Bay EDA

January 14, 2015

In their joint Executive and Investors Meeting, the Executive Committee of the Bay County Economic Development Alliance (Bay EDA) named Becca Hardin as President of the organization.

 

Port Panama City Distribution Center Gains Certification

January 8, 2015

Port Panama City's Intermodal Distribution Center is ready to house new industry. One 54-acre site on the IDC property, located on U.S. 231, recently became the fourth in the region to receive certification through Gulf Power's Florida First Sites program, aimed at attracting new industry to the area.

 

First Northwest Florida Site Certified and Ready for Business

December 5, 2014

VentureCrossings, located in Bay County and owned by The St. Joe Company, is the first industrial site to complete Gulf Power's Florida First Sites program in Northwest Florida.

 

EDA Leadership Announces Staffing Changes

November 14, 2014

The leadership of the Bay Economic Development Alliance (Bay EDA) recently announced that Executive Director, Neal Wade will be moving on to a new chapter in his career. Becca Hardin will become Interim President of the organization at the beginning of 2015.

 

United Airlines to Take Off from Bay County in 2015

November 7, 2014

United announced this week it will begin serving the Bay County area in early 2015, providing twice-daily, year-round service to the airline’s largest passenger hub at Houston’s George Bush International Airport (IAH).

 

Governor Scott Announces Location of Edge Aerodynamix, Inc. In Panama City

October 17, 2014

Aviation manufacturer will create 120 jobs and a capital investment of $77.92 million, including land

 

Bay EDA Attends Corenet Global North American Summit

October 16, 2014

BayEDA partnered with Enterprise Florida recently for a night of espionage and intrigue in Washington D.C.

 

Grants Will Fund Defense Support Projects

October 16, 2014

Gov. Rick Scott announced more than $1.1 million in projects and programs designed to make life a little easier for military personnel and their families in the Panhandle on Monday, about a week before Election Day, and some of that money will end up in Bay County.

 

Bay EDA Attends NBAA2014

October 15, 2014

The Bay EDA recently attended NBAA2014 - Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition in partnership with Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport and Florida's Great Northwest.

 

Hive Technologies: Shaping a New Workforce

October 9, 2014

A limitless passion for sharing knowledge and strengthening the technical skills base in the Bay County area has local company Hive Technologies and the CareerSource Gulf Coast Board working together, keenly focused on the mission.

 

Site Selection Ranks Gulf Power Top Utility in Economic Development

September 9, 2014

Each year Site Selection salutes the top utility economic development teams in the US. Chief among the criteria is analysis of corporate end-user project activity in 2013 in those utilities' territories, based on data from Site Selection's New Plant Database and from utility and community reports.

 

Port Panama City Maximizes Space

July 7, 2014

With five and 10-year master plans in the works, the Port Authority at the small but busy facility is exploring ways to adapt best to the changing game of world trade as markets evolve, ships get bigger and trade routes shift.

 

US Navy Orders DeTect MERLIN Aircraft Birdstrike Avoidance Radar System

June 30, 2014

DeTect, Inc. announced that it has received an order for a MERLIN Aircraft Birdstrike Avoidance Radar system for the US Navy Townsend Bombing Range in Georgia.

 

Governor Scott Awards Two Bay County Businesses with Governor's Business Ambassador Award

June 18, 2014

Jensen USA and NantHealth were among four Northwest Florida businesses recognized by Governor Rick Scott for their efforts in creating jobs and opportunities for Florida Families.

 

EDA Continues Aerospace Push Overseas

June 2, 2014

For the Bay County Economic Development Alliance, the effort to lure aerospace manufacturing projects to Northwest Florida is a marathon, not a sprint.

 

Port Panama City is in the Top Five Florida Ports for Cargo Value

May 22, 2014

The Jacksonville Business Journal lists Port Panama City as the fifth port in the state based on value of cargo.

 

EDA Launches New Site Database

May 15, 2014

The Bay County Economic Development Alliance (EDA) has launched an online tool to help make Bay County ’s offerings more visible to the rest of the world.

 

Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. Selected as a Finalist for U.S. Coast Guard Contract

February 13, 2014

Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. of Panama City, FL is proud to announce that it has been selected as one of the three finalists to design the United States Coast Guard’s new Offshore Patrol Cutters (OPC).

 

Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. Selected as a Finalist for U.S. Coast Guard Contract

February 13, 2014

Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. of Panama City, FL is proud to announce that it has been selected as one of the three finalists to design the United States Coast Guard’s new Offshore Patrol Cutters (OPC).

 

NWFL to Receive $450,000 Defense Grant for Bay, Walton and Okaloosa Counties

January 24, 2014

Recently, Governor Rick Scott announced that local defense partners in Okaloosa, Walton and Bay Counties were awarded over $450,000 through Florida’s Defense Reinvestment Grant. These three counties were chosen among 12 regions to receive a Defense Reinvestment Grant.

 

Northwest Florida's Ports See a Bright Future on the World Stage

January 13, 2014

There’s an old saying that goes: “A rising tide lifts all boats.” And as a wider Panama Canal opens its locks for the world’s mega-ships, Northwest Florida’s local ports — Port Panama City, Port of Pensacola and Port St. Joe — are taking stock of what that means for their business, as well as the economic health of the region they serve.

 

Florida Ranked First for U.S. Aviation Manufacturing Attractiveness

December 30, 2013

Governor Rick Scott announced that Florida ranked first overall in U.S. aviation manufacturing attractiveness in PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Aviation’s Second Gold Age: Can the U.S. aircraft industry maintain leadership? The U.S. aviation manufacturing attractiveness index ranked Florida’s talent first, Florida’s industry ninth, and Florida’s cost sixth for an overall ranking of first in the nation.

 

Governor Scott Announces the Expansion of iSirona in Panama City

November 18, 2013

Governor Rick Scott recently announced that iSirona, an information technology company that provides solutions for medical device integration, will expand its operations in Panama City, creating 300 new jobs and a capital investment of $2.25 million.

 

EDA Receives LambdaRail Grant

November 6, 2013

A $500,000 grant awarded to the Economic Development Alliance of Bay County will bring a next-generation computing network to Naval Support Activity Panama City, Gov. Rick Scott announced recently.

 

Panama City's iSirona is Helping Hospitals Deal with Big Data

October 30, 2013

"Smart" devices are generating a flood of information. Now hospitals need to figure out how to manage it all. Panama City’s, iSirona, is providing solutions to help hospitals with this challenge.

 

FedEx Opens Distribution Facility in Panama City

October 29, 2013

FedEx Ground, a leader in small-package ground delivery, recently opened a nearly 60,000-square-foot package distribution facility at the Port Panama City Intermodal Distribution Center.

 

B&C Technologies Recognized as a 2013 Florida Companies to Watch Award Recipient

October 24, 2013

B&C Technologies was recently recognized as a member of the 2013 Class of Florida Companies to Watch, an honor presented by GrowFL at the University of Central Florida in association with the Edward Lowe Foundation. In its 3rd year, Florida Companies to Watch celebrates second-stage growth companies for their impressive employment rates and revenue growth.

 

AAdvantage North American Locating at Port Panama IDC

October 10, 2013

The Panama City Port Authority is pleased to announce that it has leased 75,000 square feet within its new distribution warehouse to AAdvantage North American. AAdvantage North American is a Panama City based logistics company providing vendor managed inventory (VMI) warehousing and distribution services.

 

Panhandle Coalition Heading to Europe for Aerospace Pitch

September 6, 2013

A five-county coalition has formed in an effort to land an aerospace company for the Panhandle, Bay County Economic Development Alliance Executive Director Neal Wade announced recently.

 

iSirona Named to Inc. 500 List of Nation's Fastest Growing Private Companies for Second Consecutive Year

August 20, 2013

iSirona, a provider of simplified solutions for medical device integration, today announced it has been named to the Inc. 500 list of fastest-growing private companies in America. This is the second year in a row iSirona has earned a spot on the magazine's elite list.

 

Governor Scott Announces $900,000 Investment for the Port of Panama City Intermodal Distribution Center

August 19, 2013

The Port Panama City Port Authority (PCPA) is prepared to build access roads, lay-down area and 20 car rail intermodal cargo transfer facility with adequate setback to support transfer of bulk products between rail and truck, and will create 23 new direct jobs.

 

B&C Technologies Recognized as One of Florida's Companies to Watch

August 17, 2013

B&C Technologies is named as one of 2013's honorees in the Florida Companies to Watch award program. In its 3rd year, Florida Companies to Watch is presented by GrowFL at the University of Central Florida in association with the Edward Lowe Foundation.

 

iSirona Makes Outside Magazine's List of Best Places to Work in 2013

August 5, 2013

iSirona, a provider of simplified solutions for medical device integration, today announced it was included in Outside Magazine's sixth annual "Best Places to Work" list. iSirona was ranked number 28 out of 100 selected companies.

 

Mike Freeman joins Board of Directors for Community Bank

July 5, 2013

Charles W. Nicholson, Jr., Chairman of the Board for Community Bank, Coast, is proud to announce that Edward Michael Freeman, Jr., has joined the Board of Directors for Community Bank. Freeman currently serves as Chief Financial Officer for Acentria Insurance headquartered in Destin, Florida.

 

St. Joe Company Announces Port Deal

June 27, 2013

The St. Joe Company has announced another agreement that offers opportunities for growth at the Port of Port St. Joe, provided maintenance dredging of the shipping channel can be accomplished.

 

Sourcing Near and Far - Port Panama City reducing barriers for trade with Mexico.

June 18, 2013

Linea Peninsular’s speedy service, offered three times weekly between the Port of Progreso and the Port of Panama City, helps cut time-to-market for Mexican manufactured goods consumed in the U.S.

 

Eastern Shipbuilding Group and Florida Marine Transporters Sign Contract

June 10, 2013

Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. is pleased to announce that Florida Marine Transporters, Inc. of Mandeville, LA exercised an additional four (4) 90’x32’x10’ “Canal Class” Inland Towboats. On January 23, 2013, Florida Marine Transporters, Inc. signed the 56th vessel that is currently under construction and with these additional four towboats brings the total to 60 vessels contracted.

 

Southern Airways Express Touches Down at ECP

June 6, 2013

The scheduled liftoff of Southern Airways Express' first flight into Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) is expected just after 6 p.m. on Friday, June 7, 2013.

 

Largest Development in Panama City History Receives Approval

May 28, 2013

Tuesday, May 28, 2013, the St. Andrew Bay Land Company received approval to start phase one of what Panama City officials are calling the biggest development that's been in the city. The plan, which spans over the next 30 years will build over 3,000 homes and create 700,000 square feet of commercial space.

 

Eastern Shipbuilding to Add 400 New Jobs

May 8, 2013

The Eastern Shipbuilding Group announces it will add about 400 jobs in the next year. The company says they are preparing to build two new sub-sea construction vessels. They will be primarily used by the offshore oil industry.

 

Port Panama City's Huge Impact on the Bay County Economy

April 18, 2013

Port Panama City has an annual impact of about $1.4 billion on the state’s economy and a direct business impact in Bay County of more than $544 million, according to a report issued on behalf of the port.

 

Eastern Shipbuilding Group Lands New Contract

April 4, 2013

Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. is pleased to announce that on March 29, 2013, O’Hara Corporation of Rockland, Maine signed a contract to construct and deliver one 194’ DNV Classed Freezer Stern Trawler Fishing Vessel. This new contract will be constructed from their ST-115 design furnished by Skipsteknisk, AS of Aalesund, Norway.

 

Beach Chamber Names Lance Allison as New President & CEO

April 1, 2013

After almost five months of applications, interviews, and decision-making the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce has finally elected its new leader. The search committee, staff, and Board of Directors chose Lance Allison from Murray, KY, to direct the Beach Chamber in its future endeavors.

 

Eastern Shipbuilding Launches Red Dawn

February 15, 2013

The HOS Red Dawn makes a splash as it enters the water at the Eastern Shipbuilding Group’s Allanton shipyard Friday.

 

Forbes Magazine Names iSirona One of America's Most Promising Companies

February 8, 2013

PANAMA CITY, Fla.-February 7, 2013-iSirona, the leading provider of simplified solutions for medical device integration, today announced it has been named one of America's Most Promising Companies by Forbes Magazine.

 

Groundbreaking Held for Pier Park® North Shopping Center

February 8, 2013

The St. Joe Company (NYSE: JOE), CASTO and Strategic Retail Advisors (SRA) hosted a groundbreaking ceremony late last week to begin construction for their joint venture project Pier Park® North, a 360,000-square-foot shopping center located across from Pier Park Lifestyle Center on US-98 east of the State Road 79 intersection. The Pier Park North shopping center anticipates opening in spring of 2014.

 

Bay County Goes High Tech

November 28, 2012

When most people think of Bay County, they think of beautiful beaches, but the area is starting to get a new reputation in the tech industry.

 

Airbus in Alabama offers a regional opportunity

November 20, 2012

Economic development folks in our region are on a mission and the objective is Mobile.

 

Airbus Americas chairman: $600 million Mobile facility to become 'epicenter of commercial activity'

November 13, 2012

MOBILE, Alabama - The final assembly line in Mobile will become the "epicenter of commercial activity" for operations in the United States, Airbus Americas Chairman Allan McArtor said Friday.

 

Biofuel Made in Panama City Fuels a Civil Jet for the First Time

October 31, 2012

The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) achieved a major milestone for the aviation industry today as it flew the first civil jet powered by 100 percent unblended biofuel. This historic flight symbolizes a significant step not only for the aerospace industry, but also towards advancing sustainable sources of renewable energy. The fuel was made by Applied Research Associates in Panama City, Fla.

 

Local company ARA and others to Partner to Fly Aircraft Powered by 100% alternative jet fuel

October 26, 2012

Applied Research Associates (ARA) and Chevron Lummus Global (CLG) are partnering to evaluate CLG and ARA’s 100% drop-in ReadiJet™ Fuel.

 

EDA Looks Forward to 2013

October 24, 2012

Bay County Economic Development Alliance Executive Director Neal Wade worked out an equation to enhance prosperity and create 1,300 jobs in the region.

 

Exelis opens at West Bay

October 24, 2012

ITT Exelis officially opened its full-service mine defense production facility Friday morning with speeches from company officials and local politicians.

 

Bay EDA Announces the Location of GPD Pathology and 83 Jobs to Bay County

October 12, 2012

(October 12, 2012 – Panama City, FL) The Bay Economic Development Alliance (EDA) announces the location of GPD Pathology, a life sciences company, to Bay County, Fla.

 

Bay County hopes to land a whale at new airport

October 3, 2012

850 - the business magazine of Northwest Florida - takes an in-depth look at the Bay EDA's recruitment efforts at the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport and Venture Crossings.

 

Airbus growth forecast bodes well for coastal aerospace corridor

September 5, 2012

MOBILE, Alabama -- Opportunity and transformation are the words on the lips of both local and regional economic development officials in the wake of Airbus revised global aircraft forecast through 2031.

 

High-Tech Company Founder Touts Region

August 24, 2012

iSirona, a medical software company, announces its expansion in downtown Panama City.

 

Bay EDA Announces Expansion of Local Company

August 22, 2012

The Bay Economic Development Alliance (EDA) announces the expansion of iSirona, a downtown Panama City-based medical software development company. iSirona, formed in 2008, has grown from 33 to 100 employees since January 2012 and projects to grow by another 100 jobs over the next three years. The company recently relocated its headquarters to the former ITT Exelis building in downtown Panama City.

 

Florida officials in Britain

July 10, 2012

Gov. Rick Scott has brought an 85-member entourage to Great Britain in an attempt to lure an aerospace company to Florida.

 

Economic Optimism

July 5, 2012

The national economy may still look like a mile of bad blacktop highway, but there were at least two green shoots that emerged in this region to produce guarded optimism of a brighter future.

 

Airbus to Build First U.S. Assembly Plant in Mobile, Ala.

July 3, 2012

Airbus President and CEO Fabrice Bregier, second from left, shakes hands with Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley as they pose with a model of the A320 Airbus following an announcement Monday that Airbus will establish its first assembly plant in the United States in Mobile. The French-based company said the Alabama plant is expected to cost $600 million to build and will employ 1,000 people when it reaches full production, likely to be four planes a month by 2017.

 

Regional Group Developing Mega-Site

February 16, 2012

A group from Southeast Alabama and Northwest Florida has been working for several months to prepare for a future mega project for the region. The group has identified several possible sites that could attract a mega-project including steps to "certify" the site as ready for an industrial expansion.

 

Swinging for a Home Run

January 29, 2012

There are a number of variables that add up to winning and losing. The more swings at the ball, the more chances for a home run.

 

Director Making Top Ten List

January 11, 2012

Bay EDA Executive Director Neal Wade talked teamwork and promoting Bay County during the agency’s meeting at FSU.